Even With El Nino, New California Drought Rules Will Go Into Effect In 2016

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — While rain is on the way for the holiday commute, it won't be enough to curb the drought or recharge groundwater reservoirs in the state as new rules will go into effect starting next year.

Jim McDonald with the City of Sacramento says new rules for landscapes start statewide in 2016. Any new construction with a landscape bigger than 500 square feet will need to have drought-friendly features.

"They will have to prove in their building permit application that they've met the state ordinance by providing drought tolerant plants and irrigation equipment," he said.

At Midtown's Ace Hardware, Matt London says there are tons of ways to save water outdoors.

"Drip irrigation to things that definitely help meter the amount of water going out a lot better than you could do with just over watering, or using a hose and sprayer," he said.

London says timers that attach to your hose are a cheap way to limit how much water you're using on your lawn.

The state will also prohibit plants that use a lot of water next year. The new rules will only apply to new development.