Sacramentans are still saving water, but their conservation efforts have slipped compared with a year ago, suggesting that the relaxation of statewide drought mandates is prompting more consumption.

The Sacramento Regional Water Authority reported Wednesday that area residents reduced water consumption in September by 15 percent compared with the September 2013 baseline.

A year ago, when stiff conservation rules were in effect, the savings rate hit 27 percent. The results are in line with statewide figures, which show Californians have been using more water since the statewide mandates were lifted June 1.