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California Water Officials Poised To Strengthen Water Restrictions Amid Drought

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — State water officials are poised to pass some tough water restrictions on Tuesday, including three major regulations likely to hit California residents.

Sacramento resident Don Dumford is in the middle of a yard makeover, giving him a new space that will use less water, and leave fewer plants drying up from a lack of water.

"The plants I bought are beautiful and I was really surprised they were low water use," he said.

He's not surprised that statewide restrictions for watering his yard and other conservation measures man be increasing.

John Woodling with the Regional Water Authority says the steps taken now will help avoid a worst-case scenario.

"Someone might turn on their water and no water comes out," he said.

We're not there yet, but state officials say they likely take on three measures—requiring restaurants only serve water on request, hotels allowing guests to re-use their linens, and harsh water restrictions that could result in only two days of watering a week.

Water patrols will likely be stepped up, and fines of up to $500 will be slapped on those who don't conserve after being warned.

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