Severe drought triggers limits on non‑essential use; violations carry escalating surcharges
LORIS, SC — The City of Loris has activated mandatory water‑use restrictions as severe drought conditions continue across the Pee Dee region, prompting enforcement of the city’s Drought Management Plan and Response Ordinance.
City officials initiated the restrictions after the SC State Climatology Office placed Horry County in severe drought, citing prolonged heat, minimal rainfall, and increased strain on the municipal water system. The declaration limits non‑essential water use for all residential and commercial customers inside the city limits.
Under the ordinance, irrigation is only permitted outside the 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. peak‑demand window, and customers who exceed 6,000 gallons per month will incur excess‑use charges.
Prohibited activities include washing vehicles, filling pools, washing hard surfaces, flushing gutters, and operating decorative fountains unless needed to sustain aquatic life. Hydrant use is restricted to firefighting only.
Violations carry escalating surcharges of $25 for the first, $50 for the second, and service termination after the 3rd, with reinstatement requiring payment of all fees plus a $100.00 surcharge.
City leaders say the restrictions will remain in place until drought conditions ease and system demand stabilizes.
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