A Level 3 drought response is triggered when a consumer demand reduction of up to 40% is required. This language triggering a Level 3 response parallels that of Levels 1 and 2.

At Level 3, landscape irrigaton is reduced to two assigned days per week June through October and one assigned day November through May. The filling of ornamental lakes and ponds is prohibited, except to sustain aquatic life of significant value. Repairs of leaks shall be done within 48 hours. Carwashing is prohibited except at carwashes using re-circulated water. Level 3 use restrictions will not apply to commercial nurseries or growers, or to golf course greens.

Significantly, at Level 3, no new potable water service will be provided, nor temporary or permanent meters issued, except under the following circumstances:

1. a valid building permit has been issued;
2. the project is necessary to protect the public's health, safety or welfare;
3. for fire hydrant meters, only upon the return of an old fire hydrant meter; or
4. the applicant for a new meter provides an enforceable commitment that the new water demands for the project will be offset prior to the provision of new water meter(s).

The water allocation enabling language as part of Level 2 response is duplicated in Level 3.