The state’s main focus in reducing water usage is outdoors, not indoors, says Public Works Director Charles Herbertson.

In deference to the statewide drought, Culver City households, generally not necessarily specifically, have been directed to use 16 percent less water than normal. Mr. Herbertson believes this is a comfortably attainable objective.

“What they really are trying to do is get people to dial back on outdoor irrigation,” he said. “That is where they believe the majority of the savings will come from.

“Obviously there are other ways people can be wasting water.”

Mr. Herbertson mentioned leaking toilets. “Many people are unaware of leaking,” he said.

Culver City’s principal water supplier, the Golden State Water Co., has invited customers to visit their Green Valley Circle office and pick up tablets to be dropped in the tank. “I have done that myself,” Mr. Herbertson said. “If the color comes through without flushing it, you know it is leaking. Over time, that can use a lot of water. If you have a major increase in your water bill and cannot explain how, a leaking toilet is a typical source.”