California Regulators Approve Unprecedented Water Cutbacks

SACRAMENTO (CBSLA.com/AP) — California water regulators have adopted sweeping, unprecedented restrictions on how people and businesses can use water amid the state's drought.

The State Water Resources Control Board approved rules Tuesday forcing cities to limit watering on public property and encouraging homeowners to let their lawns die.

The unanimous vote came after a 10-hour meeting during which many areas that will face the toughest cutbacks asked for exemption or reconsideration.

The mandatory water-saving targets affect hundreds of local water agencies and cities, although it's unclear what punishment those who don't save enough will face.

The general manager for the Yorba Linda Water District in Orange County during the meeting said the community sits near a state park with high fire danger.

"My purpose is to inform you of a specific problem with the emergency regulation that if not rectified will force me to be in a position to choose between meeting my conservation standard or taking care of public safety or public health," Marc Marcantonio said.

Gov. Jerry Brown has proposed fines of up to $10,000 for the worst offenders, but the plan requires legislative approval.

Figures released Tuesday show water use statewide fell less than 4 percent in March compared with the same month in 2013, far short of the governor's desired savings of 25 percent statewide.

The new rules are expected to go into effect next month.

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