The staging criteria differ by region. Examples may include water levels in reservoirs or in the water aquifer. From 3 to 5 stages may be recognized.
Restrictions on use tend to increase along with the drought stage. These may include:
(1) limits on watering of lawns, especially by automatic lawn irrigation systems
(2) operations of water intensive businesses such as for car washing
(3) prohibitions on water wastage
(4) restrictions on swimming pools and water parks
(5) restrictions on washing of impervious surfaces such as parking lots
(6) reduction in water use for laundry, dish washing or other services
In addition, additional charges for water use may be imposed.
