Water Restrictions

On 1 December 2011, Stage 1 Water Restrictions came into effect across the Melbourne metropolitan area

Stage 1 restrictions provide greater flexibility for how households and businesses use water as well as encouraging all of us to use water efficiently.

Under Stage 1, the following restrictions apply:

• Gardens and lawns can be watered at any time on any day using a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle
• Manual or automatic watering systems for gardens and lawns can only be used between 6pm and 10pm and 6am and 10am on your nominated watering day
• Fountains and water features can be used at any time (so long as they recirculate the water)
• Hosing of hard surfaces (concrete, paved areas, driveways etc) is banned.
• You can wash your car, using a high pressure cleaning unit or hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or a bucket, at any time
• Pools and spas greater than 2000 litres capacity can only be filled in accordance with a Water Use Plan.

Residential and commercial gardens and lawns

• Hand watering - you can water residential or commercial gardens and lawns at any time, on any day using a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle.
• Watering systems - you can water gardens and lawns using a watering system (manual, automatic, spray or dripper) only between 6 pm – 10 am, on your nominated watering day (odds and evens system depending on street number/date).

Public gardens, lawns and playing surfaces

• Hand watering - public gardens, lawns and playing surfaces can be watered at any time, on any day using a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle.
• Watering systems - public gardens, lawns and playing surfaces can also use a watering system between 6 pm-10 pm and 6 am-10 am, on nominated watering days or water in accordance with an approved Water Use Plan.
  *Watering systems for public gardens or lawns must be fitted with a rain or soil moisture sensor.

Fountains and water features

You can fill and operate your fountain or water feature with:

• a bucket 
• hand held watering can or
• an automatic top up device

as long as it recirculates the water.

Hosing down of hard surfaces

You cannot hose down hard surfaces including:

• driveways
• paths
• concrete
• tiles
• timber decking and
• other paved areas

You can hose down hard surfaces under the following circumstances:

• Accidents or hazards - you can hose down a hard surface if cleaning is required as a result of an accident, fire, health hazard, safety hazard or other emergency.
• Stain removal - you can use a high pressure cleaning unit, or if such a unit is not available, a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, or a bucket to remove stains from hard surfaces once a season (every three months).
• Construction and renovation - you can also use a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle to clean windows or in the course of construction or renovation.

Vehicle washing

You can wash your car, boat or other vehicle at home using:

• a high pressure cleaning unit
• a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or
• a bucket

at any time, any day of the week.

Pools and spas

• Filling - A new pool or spa of up to 2,000 litres can be filled by means of a hand-held hose, bucket or watering can or an automatic water top up device. A new or existing pool or spa of greater than 2,000 litres can only be filled in accordance with a Water Use Plan
• Topping up - An existing pool or spa of any size can be topped up using an automatic top up device or a hand held hose, bucket or watering can. A mobile spa can only be filled or topped up in accordance with a Water Use Plan.

Greywater and Rainwater

Greywater can be used at any time to water gardens and lawns. For guidelines on the safe use of greywater visit www.epa.vic.gov.au. No rules apply to rainwater collected in a storage tank, provided it is not supplemented by the drinking water supply.

Exemptions

There are certain circumstances we offer exemptions. Please visit our Exemptions page for more information.

 

 

• What are the storage levels today?

  Check today's water storages at www.melbournewater.com.au.

• What stage of water restrictions are we in?

  Melbourne is currently in Stage 1 water restrictions.

• Who decides whether we're on water restrictions?

  The level of water restrictions is determined by the water utilities in consultation with the State Government based on their Drought Response Plan. Any variation to the restrictions as set out in the Drought Response Plan must be approved by the Minister for Water.

• Will there be a review of current rules and restrictions?

  Water restrictions were reviewed between March and November 2011. After more than four and a half years on restrictions it is appropriate that we take the time to comprehensively review our Drought Response Plan (which include water restrictions) and Permanent Water Saving Plan (which include current Permanent Water Saving Rules). As part of this process we intend to:

  • identify what is needed to develop Melbourne into a resilient, self-sufficient liveable city
  • reflect on the information and learnings obtained during this period
  • consider contemporary information.

• Has anything about Stage 1 changed?

  As a result of a review of water restrictions announced in March this year, there have been slight changes to Stage 1 Restrictions. These include being required to use watering systems on alternate days. For further information about the rules under Stage 1 download our Drought Response Plan and visit the Office for Water website

• Why is Melbourne moving to Stage 1 water restrictions when we've had so much rain?

  Following good rainfall over the past two years, Melbourne’s storage levels have improved significantly and are currently at 65.6 per cent capacity. However, as we are entering the warmest and driest part of the year, maintaining Stage 1 restrictions will ensure the potential decline in our storage levels is minimised while allowing greater flexibility of water use.

• What was considered in making the decision to stay on Stage 1?

  The decision to move to Stage 1 restrictions was based on the following:

  • the current storage levels and outlook to 2015
  • the likelihood of storage levels declining over the summer/autumn period
  • the extent of impact on customers by removing restrictions over the warmer months of the year

  Even with the ability to now water lawns, we believe it is a prudent approach to move to Stage 1 water restrictions for this period.

• Why didn't we move to Permanent Water Rules?

  Due to recent changes to the rules of water restrictions, there is little difference between the requirements of Stage 1 and Permanent Water Rules.

  The key differences are that under Stage 1:

  • watering systems can only used on alternate days (odds and evens system, depending on street number), and
  • there are restrictions of filling up pools and spas.

• What if I don't have a house number?

  Where there is no house number the property is considered as an ‘even’ numbered house.

• What if I live in an apartment or unit?

  If you live in an apartment or unit your watering day is determined by your property address, not your apartment or unit number. (Essentially use the last number of your street address as your guide!)

• Can I water my lawn?

  Yes. Under Stage 1, you can water your garden and lawn as needed with a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or watering can on any day, or you can use your watering system only between the hours of 6 pm – 10 am on alternate days (depending on your street number). Regardless of your watering day, we still recommend practicing water wise habits and to avoid watering during the heat of the day.

• If water storages are still low, why would you permit residents to water their gardens more?

  We acknowledge the recreational and aesthetic benefits of gardens to people in our community, and during restrictions have allowed residents to use limited amounts of water on their gardens. With this change our intent is to provide more flexibility in terms of when you can use water in the garden, not for water use to increase significantly.
  
  

• What is a dripper system?

  A dripper system drips water on, or near to the root zone of plants. The system must use a fixed rate of flow, which does not exceed nine litres per hour for every linear meter of watering system. You can contact you local water business about retrofitting a dripper system.

• What if my automatic watering system doesn't allow me to water on my set days?

  Most watering systems have an odds and evens capability, however if your system does not, there are a number of options available to customers in this situation:

  • you can just flip the ‘on’ switch on your watering system on your set watering day versus pre-programming
  • re-read the instructions of your system - our research shows that up to 40 per cent of automatic watering system owners do not know how to program their system - otherwise visit the manufacturer’s website for more information
  • your watering system may handle ‘set’ days of the week (i.e. Saturday and Tuesday). If this is the case you will be able to program your system to manage a week’s watering in advance – requiring you to reset your program once weekly
  • if your watering system does not handle either of these options, perhaps it can be upgraded with additional hardware to make it perform as required under Stage 2 restriction rules. Speak to your product manufacturer or contact your local Water Saver Garden Centre
  • alternatively you can switch over your automatic watering system to the manual setting and water according to the manual watering restrictions.

  Note: Since 1 September 2005 any new automatic watering system installed is required by law to have a rain or soil moisture sensor controller integrated into the system. We recommend that older systems be fitted with such sensors too – in fact it is compulsory for councils to have these sensors on any automatic watering system.

• Can you hose in wetting agents?

  Yes, under Stage 1 restrictions wetting agents can be watered in either by hand or by watering system on your watering days.

  To save water, you can apply wetting agents, fertilisers, etc., just prior to rain or customers may use an alternative water supply such as greywater, rainwater, etc.

• What about business and commercial customers?

  Under Stage 1 Water Restrictions business and commercial customers are required to comply with the same watering times and vehicle washing restrictions as residents. This excludes car yards, car detailers and commercial car washes who may submit a Water Conservation Plan for approval to wash vehicles. For further information, contact City West Water on 131 691.

• What is industry doing to save water?

  Water restrictions have always applied equally to industry, however additional measures have been introduced by the Victorian Government and the water industry. These measures are designed to minimise impact on the economy while still making significant water savings. 

  In Melbourne the non-residential sector including industrial and commercial customers make up about 30 per cent of Melbourne's demand for water, in comparison to the residential sector that accounts for 60 per cent of the demand for water.

• Do restrictions apply to alternative water supplies?

  No, water restrictions only apply to drinking water. Alternative water supplies such as rainwater and greywater can be used at anytime. Rainwater tanks must not be topped up with drinking water. 

• What else is the Victorian Government doing to help householders during water restrictions?

  The Victorian Government is helping households cut water consumption by providing incentives to save water by making rebates available under the Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebate scheme.

  The 267,500 rebates provided by the Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebate scheme are helping Victorians save around 2.7 billion litres of drinking water inside and outside the home in Victoria.

• Can I cut off my home downpipe and redirect the water to my lawn?

  We realise that it is common practise for homeowners to implement water saving solutions around their home. However according to the Plumbing Industry Commission (PIC), you need to be a licensed plumber to perform any roofing or stormwater work. This work is regulated by the PIC.

  The reason this work is regulated is because the downpipe terminates just above the ground and is then connected to a stormwater output. If work is not done properly you can potentially flood the area and cause damage to the house's foundation and the surrounding area. 

  Incorrect connection or disconnection to stormwater outputs can also have wider implications.

  If the water is not redirected properly, flooding under the house can cause stagnant water and/or rising damp - both of which undermine the underlying structure. If you perform this work yourself, you may inadvertently invalidate your homeowner’s warranty and/or roof warranty.

• Can I convert my current watering system to a dripper system?

  Yes. Existing sprinkler heads can be removed and replaced with drip emitters and existing holes can be plugged. For further information contact your local irrigation specialist, hardware store or garden nursery.

  Note: Since 1 September 2005 any new automatic dripper system installed is required by law to have a rain or soil moisture sensor controller integrated into the system. We recommend that older systems be fitted with such sensors too – in fact it is compulsory for councils to have these sensors on any automatic watering system.

• What if I refuse to abide by these rules?

  Penalties apply for non-compliance.

  Our first priority is to educate the community. However we can issue a Penalty Infringement Notice (fine) or restrict the water supply. Legislation allows us to issue a fine for breaches without providing advance notification.

  We have found that in many cases residents and businesses that are issued with a breach notice are inadvertantly doing the wrong thing and generally ensure that they are compliant in the future.

• Can I use a spray bottle that is not equipped with a trigger nozzle on the bottle to apply gardening products to my garden (e.g. fertilsers, etc.)?

  Yes. Bottles of garden product equipped with and without trigger nozzles or on/off switches can be used. Conditions follow:

  • only to be used on garden beds
  • not to be used on lawns
  • only to be used during the authorised watering times for water restrictions.

• What if I need to fill my dam with drinking water?

  The Drought Response Plan allows for the filling of dams and tanks when the dam is to be used for fire fighting, public health or stock purposes. For all other purposes your local water utility’s permission is required.  

  If the dam is partially filled with drinking water and is mixed with another source of water (i.e. stormwater or bore water) and is to be used for irrigation purposes during restrictions, you should contact your water utility for requirements.

• Can I wash my car?

  Under Stage 1 Water Restrictions, cars may be washed at home with drinking water, using only a high pressure water cleaning device, and hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or a bucket filled from a tap. You may wash your car by using a water efficient commercial or mobile car wash. 

  Or you may also wash your car at home if you are using an alternative source of water such as rainwater.

• Why should we use a high pressure water cleaning device and can I use a trigger nozzle or water wand instead?

  A high pressure cleaning device significantly reduces the pressue of the standard tap (or other source of water). Powered by an external power source (eg. standard electrical cord), they use up to 80 per cent less water than a standard hose. While trigger nozzle hoses or water wands can be used, you’ll use much less water with a high pressure cleaning device.

• What is the most effective way to wash cars at home?

  The waste water produced by washing cars at home can be harmful to our waterways and rivers, so please try to follow these guidelines:

  • seek out biodegradable and environmentally sensitive car washing products
  • where possible wash your car on top of grassed areas. Lawn can help in filtering out chemicals and pollutants from waste water. Avoid washing your car on the street if at all possible
  • if using a bucket to wash your car, use warm water - it will save on the elbow grease and you will need less car washing product too
  • consider using a commercial car wash if your car is especially dirty. Car washes treat their waste water similar to sewage, meaning it will stay out of our waterways.

• How do I know if a commercial car wash is an approved, water efficient car wash?

  Only approved, water efficient commercial or mobile car washes may operate. Look for signage that contains the Water Saver Rating logo - these commerical car washes operate within water restrictions under an approved Water Conservation Plan.

• Why are there exemptions for swimming pools?

  Swimming pool exemptions are designed to:

  • prevent ongoing water loss
  • protect the pool infrastructure.

  The Drought Response Plan allows for pools to be filled ensuring a pool’s infrastructure isn’t compromised. Without water, pools can crack and rise out of the ground.

• What are the exemptions for swimming pools?

  Under Stage 1:

  • a new pool or spa of up to 2,000 litres can be filled with drinking water; however a new pool or spa of greater than 2,000 litres must not be filled for the first time, except in accordance with a Water Use Plan. (Contact your water retailer for more information.)
  • existing* pools or spas with a capacity of less than 2,000 litres may be filled with drinking water
  • existing* pools with a capacity greater than 2,000 litres must not be filled except in accordance with a Water Use Plan prepared by the owner, and approved by the local water business
  • if you need to perform maintenance or repairs, please contact your local water utility before initiating works.

  *Please note: 'existing' means existing at the time when the prevailing stage of restrictions was declared and has been set-up permanently and been at least 75 per cent full during that time.

• Can I fill my pool?

  Under Stage 1 Restrictions a new pool or spa of up to 2,000 litres can be filled with drinking water. New pools and spas greater than 2,000 litres must not be filled, except in accordance with a Water Use Plan. (Contact us on 131 691 for more information.)

  You are able to top up an existing* pool or spa using either a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, or a watering can or bucket, filled either by a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, or directly from a tap.

  * Please note: 'existing' means existing at the time when the prevailing stage of restrictions was declared and has been set-up permanently and been at least 75 per cent full during that time.

• Do the restrictions also affect commercial and industrial customers?

  Yes – Stage 1 Water Restrictions affect how commercial and industrial customers use water.

• Can windows, roofs and building facads in new homes be cleaned with a hose?

  Windows, roofs and building facads cannot be cleaned with drinking water unless it is for construction purposes, and then only a bucket can be used. However, if there is an accident, fire, health or safety hazard a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle may be used. Alternative water supplies, such as from a rainwater tank can be used to clean windows, roofs and building facads.

• Can I use a bucket to clean my driveway and paving?

  No. Stage 1 prohibits using water to clean driveways and pathways except in the case of accident, fire, or hazard to health reasons.

• Will we still have to pay full service charges?

  The Water Service Charge is a fixed quarterly charge for every property connected to the water supply system. It contributes to the cost of operating and maintaining water mains to enable us to continue to supply high quality water.

  The Sewerage Service Charge is also a fixed quarterly charge for every property connected to the sewerage system. It contributes to the cost of operating and maintaining the sewerage system.

  If your property is connected to the water and sewerage supply, the quarterly service charges remain payable. 

• I own a small business - how do restrictions affect me?

  Small business owners are subject to the same restrictions as residential customers.

  Water used in production processes, for internal uses or as part of product manufacture remains unrestricted at this time. In some cases, if you are in an industry sector that is affected by domestic watering prohibitions you may have some restrictions on use. Industries affected include commercial car washes, nurseries and pool construction.

• Is a high-pressure system equivalent to a hand-held trigger hose during any stage of restrictions?

  Yes. During Stage 1 Water Restrictions, where a high-pressure water-cleaning device is not specified within the restriction requirements, it is considered an equivalent to a hand-held trigger hose and may be used.

• How do I get more information on water restrictions or report a breach?

  Call 131 691 for information on water restrictions, to report a breach on water restrictions or report a water or sewage emergency or fault.

• Are there penalties if you don't comply with Stage 1 restrictions?

  Yes - penalties apply for non-compliance with water restrictions.

  Our first priority is to educate the community. However, we can issue a Penalty Infringement Notice (fine) or restrict supply. Legislation allows us to issue a fine for breaches without providing advance notification.

  We have found that in many cases residents and businesses that are issued with a breach notice are inadvertently doing the wrong thing and generally ensure they are compliant in the future.

• What is the process for dealing with people who don't abide by the restrictions?

  If a water utility receives a complaint regarding water use that violates restrictions, they may send an educational letter advising the customer of the current stage of water restrictions and what is and what is not allowed. On other occasions they may visit the customer or site to investigate.

  If Authorised Water Officers identify a customer who is not complying with Stage 1 Water Restrictions, they may issue a formal warning or a fine in the mail or in person.

  We still encourage people who notice a water user doing the wrong thing to call 131 691.

• How are the water restrictions enforced?

  Water patrols have been introduced to ensure that water utilities have a stronger presence in the community throughout the duration of water restrictions.

  Water Patrols are employees of City West Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water and are also burst and leaks maintenance employees and meter readers.

  Water Patrols look out for customers who are not complying with water restrictions, visit houses where people are asking for advice and provide assistance on restrictions as well as follow-up suspected breaches.

• Why is the exemption for the establishment of warm season grass being extended?

  The reason for extending the warm season grass exemption (originally intended to end on 31 March 2011) is that while the active growing season for warm season grass is during warm weather - when the soil temperature is above 18 degrees Celsius - pre-grown turf can be successfully installed and established throughout the year if carefully maintained.

  By extending the exemption we can better support people who are redesigning their gardens to better adapt to the changing climate.