Ordinance 14
MWA adopted Ordinance No. 14 (see below) related to new Minimal Producers (small water users with new wells) within the Mojave Basin area. Ordinance 14 was adopted on April 14, 2022 and became effective July 1, 2022. Water wells permitted within the Mojave Basin Area starting July 1, 2022 and after are affected by this Ordinance.
Under Ordinance 14, new wells are subject to an annual assessment for the replacement cost of one-acre foot of water. The cost for replacement water is determined annually (see below). The replacement assessment is placed on the San Bernardino County property tax rolls for collection purposes. Proceeds are used to purchase water to recharge the in the various regions within the Mojave Basin Area.
Under the current terms of Ordinance 14, annual water use is limited to 10 acre-feet or less per year (1 acre-foot = ~325,851 gallons) and all water use is restricted to the property where the well is located. If water production exceeds 10 acre-feet of water in any given year, an action with the presiding Court may take place to enjoin the water production into the Mojave Basin Area Judgment, which could result in additional assessments and regulations.
Wells drilled outside the Mojave Basin Area are not subject to Ordinance 14. See map below showing the affected area.