More areas increase water restrictions

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The state’s two largest cities implemented mandatory water restrictions today.

The moves by Charlotte and Raleigh come a day after Greensboro put mandatory restrictions into effect because of the continuing drought.

The Division of Water Resources say mandatory water restrictions now cover more than two million people statewide.

In Mecklenburg County, the restrictions ban car washing at homes and refilling pools and ornamental ponds. Lawn watering is limited to twice a week. Fines start at $100 for violations and officials will begin water patrols Friday.

Raleigh officials have stepped up enforcement and say $200 fines will be issued for a first violation. Residential watering with an irrigation system or sprinkler is limited to once a week. Residential car washing is allowed only on weekends.

A team of six or eight inspectors will look for violators in Greensboro. Residential sprinklers are limited to one day a week. The first violation carries a warning, followed by a $100 fine for the second offense.