Higher water restrictions begin today for the city of Bartlesville.

 Hulah Lake, Bartlesville’s primary water supply, is at 4.92 feet BELOW normal as of this morning. Due to the ongoing drought, Bartlesville residents and businesses will move to Phase 3 of the Water Shortage Ordinance.

 The new restrictions include higher rates continuing for customers who use more than 10,000 gallons of water per month. Outdoor watering will be reduced to only one day per week, where even-numbered properties may water on Thursdays only and odd-numbered properties may water on Fridays only. Water pressure will be reduced to the minimum levels allowed by state and federal regulations. The city will also reduce or discontinue all irrigation at city-owned facilities. All city-owned splash pads will remain closed, while city-owned swimming pools may operate with reduced hours, or may close altogether.

 More information can be found on the city of Bartlesville's website, cityofbartlesville.org.