Water usage restrictions implemented in Estepona

Estepona Council has unveiled a set of recommendations aimed at curbing the demand for drinking water by a minimum of 10%, aligning with the directives outlined in the Special Drought Plan. Mayor José María García Urbano has ratified a municipal decree encompassing a range of measures designed to reduce the consumption of urban drinking water, with the effective date set for October 1st.

Due to the dwindling water resources available for the Western Costa del Sol region, and with a paramount objective of ensuring a stable water supply to the local populace, the consumption of drinking water is now strictly prohibited for the following use:
- The irrigation of golf courses.
- The refilling of private swimming pools.
- Car washing outside officially sanctioned establishments.
- The operation of decorative fountains lacking a closed water loop.
- Use of public showers.
- Any other non-essential utilizations.

The Town Council will play its part by implementing the following actions:
- Restricting the watering of gardens, parks, and green areas, whether public or private, to a maximum of three days per week.

- Utilizing alternative recycled or raw water networks for public green areas wherever available.

- Employing non-potable well water for cleaning public and private roads, except for the use of pressure washers with sprayers (for hygiene purposes).

To ensure the success of these conservation efforts, the Council seeks the full cooperation of local urbanizations and residents. An awareness campaign is set to launch on social media platforms and public media outlets shortly.

Furthermore, all residents within the municipality, as well as those responsible for public and private facilities, are urged to use drinking water judiciously and responsibly, checking for potential leaks and reducing unnecessary water consumption. This includes turning off the main water supply to homes and facilities during unoccupied periods.

The enacted measures will remain in effect indefinitely or until the drought situation is officially declared resolved. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of these measures will transpire, and more stringent measures may be introduced depending on the progression of the drought scenario.