Water restrictions have been relaxed

Chiswick Plumbing • March 1, 2020

As a result of the recent extensive rainfall in New South Wales, water restrictions will be relaxed as of March 1st. Described as “the biggest rain even in 20 years” by the NSW government, the amount of rain that has fallen has seen the average dam level reach 80%.

Extensive measures have been put in place to ensure the water is safe for use, including:

  • Testing
  • Filtration
  • Installation of nets to catch debris
  • Two-week delay before downgrading restrictions

Since December, Sydney, Blue Mountains, Illawarra and surrounding areas have been under strict level 2 water restrictions. Predictions initially were that level 3 restrictions would be introduced in 2020, but following recent downpours, this is no longer the case.

What this means for you

Level two restrictions were mainly focused on replacing common hose use with buckets. Whereas now with level one restrictions in place, hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle are back on the approved list!

General restrictions

  • All hoses must be fitted with a trigger nozzle.
  • Residents can use hoses – but must not leave them unattended.
  • Outdoor watering is allowed before 10 am or after 4 pm with a trigger nozzle.
  • No hosing of hard surfaces such as concrete, paths and driveways.
  • The use of standard sprinklers and watering systems is prohibited.

Garden and lawn watering

  • Hand-held hose or drip-irrigation system restricted to use of only one at a time.
  • Watering is only permitted between the hours of 5 pm and 10 am.
  • Watering cans and buckets are permitted.
  • New turf can be watered for one week, as per instructions.

Vehicles, buildings and boats

  • Washing vehicles and buildings are only allowed with a hose connected to a trigger nozzle.
  • Washing of bins with high-pressure equipment and a trigger nozzle is permitted.
  • High-pressure cleaning equipment allowed.

Pools and spas

  • Top up an existing pool or spa using only a hand-held hose between 5pm and 10am.
  • Fill a new pool or spa using only a hand-held hose between 5pm and 10am.
  • Must be covered while not in use.

Be a team player

Although the severity has decreased, it’s important to remember that water restrictions apply. We all still need to do our bit to ensure the water reserves stay at a reasonable level.

Save water by being conscious of your water consumption and maintain good water-saving practices. Taking shorter showers and checking for leaks within the home are great ways to prevent water wastage.

Ignoring these restrictions will put you at risk of a $220 fine for individuals and $550 for businesses. If you use water as part of your core business, you can apply for a non-residential exemption for the restrictions. For more information about Sydney’s water restrictions, visit the Sydney Water website.

 

If you think you have sprung a leak in your home and might be consuming extra water because of it, please get in contact with Chiswick Plumbing right away! We will happily come out to assess the issue and are available for emergency plumbing 24/7.

 

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