Due to exceptionally dry conditions across the Kempsey Shire, Level 1 Water Restrictions are now in force.
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But what does this mean for households, agriculture, and commercial businesses? Save water!
Residents and businesses are asked to save water wherever they can and to adhere to the restrictions by reducing their outdoor water usage and lowering their overall water consumption until substantial rainfall replenishes river levels and water supplies.
Council's Director of Utilities, Wes Trotter, said the restrictions are necessary to help safeguard water resources during this extended dry spell.
"With only minimal amounts of rainfall forecast for coming weeks, we've had to take immediate action to conserve water locally. Level 1 restrictions aim to create an immediate impact on water consumption without compromising lifestyles." said Mr Trotter.
What are the rules for residents?
- Residents can water outside using hand-held hoses, for one hour every second day, between 4pm and 9am only.
- Use the "odds and evens" system. This means homes with an even number can water on the even days of the month (e.g. 22 October), while houses with odd numbers water on the odd days of the month (e.g. 23 October).
- Sprinklers and fixed unattended hoses are banned.
- Micro-spray water systems can only be used for 15 minutes and as part of your one-hour allocation.
- There is no watering at all on the 31st day of any month.
- This includes topping up home pools.
- No hosing of windows, houses, roofs, gutters, driveways, and paved areas.
- Wash cars and boats with buckets not hoses and please do this on a grassed area.
What about Commercial and Agricultural uses?
There are specific Level 1 water restriction guidelines for water usage in commercial and agricultural businesses which vary by organisation and usage type. Please refer to the Council's website for detailed guidelines as to what is permitted.
What if I see someone breaking the rules?
"Council has a range of legislated enforcement measures available in this instance, but we're really appealing to the community to take responsibility and do their part to conserve our water," said Mr Trotter.
For more information on water restrictions visit ksc.pub/savewater
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