This Is How Restaurants Are Serving Water During The Massive California Drought

California is in its fourth year of drought — in case you haven’t heard. While the state has been seeing rain every now and again, it has been insufficient to even begin refilling lakes and reservoirs on which the state relies for its water supply. This means a big change for restaurants when it comes to serving water.

A unanimous vote by the State Water Resources Control Board on Tuesday set in motion the extension and expansion of emergency drought regulations for the state.

A notable rule is that customers must now ask for water to be served to them in restaurants, rather than having it brought out automatically with menus and silverware. This also extends to bars and cafeterias.

Some restaurants already have been displaying signs saying they only serve water upon request to save water and as a means to raise awareness about water conservation. And some jurisdictions have had this rule in place during previous droughts.

The rules will be enforced by local water departments throughout the state. Fines can reach up to $500 if a violation is found.