March 8, 2009 marks the start of a new irrigation rule.

The St. Johns River Water Management District passed the rule in December, 2008 and Atlantic Beach’s City Code follows in step with that rule. The rule applies to those using City water or private wells.  Here’s a summary:

• Never irrigate between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
• All automatic irrigation systems should have rainfall sensors to override the system when it rains.

• During Daylight Saving Time (spring and summer), limit irrigation to Two Days per Week on specific days: 

    o   Wednesday and Saturday – Residential at odd numbered addresses or no address
    o   Thursday and Sunday – Residential at even numbered addresses
    o   Tuesday and Friday – Non-residential

• During Eastern Standard Time (fall and winter), limit irrigation to One Day per Week on specific days: 

    o   Saturday – Residential at odd numbered addresses or no address
    o   Sunday – Residential at even numbered addresses
    o   Tuesday – Non-residential

• Irrigate no more than ¾” or one hour per zone per irrigation day.

 As always, there are some exceptions:

• Micro-spray, micro-jet or drip irrigation is allowed any time, any day.
• You may operate irrigation systems for repair or maintenance at any time, but no longer than 20 minutes per hour per zone.
• You may water in chemicals at any time within 24 hours of application. Watering may not exceed ¼” of water per application 
   unless otherwise required by law, the chemical manufacturer, or best management practices.
• If you wish to irrigate in a manner not authorized by the rule, contact the St. Johns River Water Management District to obtain a
  Standard General Permit. You can get a copy of the application on the District’s website at www.sjrwmd.com and click on the
  sprinkler.