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Dover reiterates Level 2 drought rules and outlines complaint, enforcement process
Summary
Town staff confirmed Dover remains in a Level 2 drought that prohibits sprinkler use and limits outdoor watering to handheld watering between 5 p.m. and 9 a.m.; staff detailed complaint channels, an anonymous online portal, and bylaw fines ($50 first, $200 for subsequent violations).
Town staff updated the Board of Selectmen on July 23 that Dover remains under a Level 2 drought declaration and reviewed steps residents should take to comply and report violations.
Staff said a Level 2 drought "limits outdoor water use to handheld watering only, from 5PM to 9AM" and explicitly "prohibits all sprinklers." The town has widely publicized the restriction through website pop-ups, social media, banner signs and reverse-911 calls, and staff said they plan further messaging targeted at landscapers and major irrigation vendors.
Because the town cannot continuously patrol for violations, staff outlined complaint and enforcement procedures: residents can file complaints through an online portal (preferred because it allows tracking and can be anonymous), by calling DPW and leaving the address, or by emailing the town garage address. Upon receipt, staff said the town sends an educational letter; repeated or observed violations can lead to formal warnings and fines under the town bylaw. As staff explained, "The first fine is $50 and then the... second fine and subsequent is for $200."
Selectmen emphasized continued education to reach residents who incorrectly believe private wells exempt them from restrictions and discussed outreach to landscaping companies to encourage them to notify clients of the rules.
Town staff said they are working with counsel to ensure enforcement notices comply with the bylaw and that early steps emphasize education rather than fines.
