30 April 2009
City West Water is reminding customers who refuse to follow Stage 3a water restrictions that they risk possible fines of up to $454, and in the case of repeated offences, even having their water supply restricted.
City West Water Managing Director Anne Barker said that customers who flout water restrictions would be actively pursued by water patrol staff, and fines will be issued.
“We’ve given the community ample time to adapt to Stage 3a restrictions, and while I am pleased at the general acceptance of the rules, there are some who refuse to do their bit to save water,” Ms Barker said.
“It is unfortunate that a handful of people refuse to join the community in saving water, but we will take action where we see breaches of current water restrictions.”
Ms Barker said that five City West Water customers have been fined for breaches of Stage 3a water restrictions this year, and efforts will continue to catch those who flout water restrictions.
“We have dedicated crews roaming the streets in clearly marked vehicles keeping an eye out for water cheats.”
Since the start of this year, 364 possible breaches of water restrictions were reported to City West Water by members of the public and water patrol staff. City West Water followed up every case, and while many of those reports turned out to be people using tank water or grey water, fines were issued in the case of clear breaches, and may result in water supply being restricted if there are repeat offences.
Under current restrictions, customers can be fined for using drinking water for washing vehicles and paved areas, watering lawns at any time, or for garden watering outside nominated watering days and times.
Ms Barker said that water patrol crews will be out in force on the lookout for water cheats, and those caught would be issued with fines on the spot.
“Gardens are often the cause of many breaches, but with winter rainfall set to give gardens a good drink, garden watering shouldn’t be necessary, so there really is no excuse for watering outside nominated water days.”
Details of current Stage 3a water restrictions can be found at http://www.citywestwater.com.au/