The City of San Marcos will lift Stage 1 drought water restrictions Jan. 10, returning to year-round water conservation rules.
The change is due to recent rains across the hill country that have recharged the Edwards Aquifer. If water levels rise above the 660 feet Stage 1 trigger elevation within a 10-day average, year-round water conservation rules can be used. On Jan 5, the 10-day aquifer level was at 663.5 feet and the daily reading was 663.8 feet. 
Under year-round water usage rules, residents can use lawn sprinklers any day before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m. Hand watering, soaker hose usage and drip irrigation can be done on any day at any time. 
At-home car washing can be done at any time with restrictions. Residents must use a bucket or hand-held hose with an automatic shut-off device. Washing impervious surfaces is also allowed at any time but should be limited unless required for health and safety. Any waste of water is prohibited at all times. 
Current aquifer levels and a full list of drought rules can be viewed on the City of San Marcos website.