Will the allowable watering hours under restrictions change for daylight saving?

Yes. Watering times are changing Sunday 5 October 2008, to coincide with the beginning of daylight saving. The new watering times will be:

Dripper systems and hand-held hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle can be used on one day a week for up to three hours:

• Either between 6am-9am or 6pm-9pm
• Even-numbered properties on Saturday, odd-numbered properties on Sunday (no change)
• Watering cans and buckets can be used on any day/time (no change).

When did level 3 water restrictions start?

Level 3 water restrictions have been in place since Monday 1 January 2007.

What are the penalties for non-compliance with water restrictions? 

Non compliance could result in a penalty of $315. For serious and ongoing breaches court action may be pursued and individuals could face fines of up to $5000 and up to $10,000 for businesses.

How will restrictions be policed?

SA Water staff and dedicated Water Conservation Officers will monitor the restrictions.  As well as being ‘on the road’ to check on breaches, we will respond to calls from members of the public who notify us of breaches of the restrictions.  The number to call to report a breach is 1800 130 952.

How do I apply for a permit or exemption?

Exemptions and permits may be available under certain circumstances. Permit applications can be downloaded here. 
 

Do water restrictions apply in high fire risk areas or during a fire emergency?

While water restrictions cover all areas supplied with water from the River Murray, they do not apply where there is a need to protect life and property from an immediate threat from fire.

Where do water restrictions apply?

Level 3 water restrictions apply to everyone who receives River Murray water. Eyre Peninsula remains on the restrictions implemented in December 2002, click here for details.

Some areas are not included in these restrictions as they do not receive River Murray water. These include:

SA Water customers in all of these regions are still covered by Permanent Water Conservation Measures. Click here for details.

Level 3 restrictions on Kangaroo Island have been lifted recently following reduced water use and healthy inflows into the Middle River reservoir. Kangaroo Island is now covered by permanent water conservation measures. For more details view the media release.

However, we’re asking the whole community – including industry, business and householders – to pitch in and help ease pressure on SA’s water resources.

Level 3 water restrictions apply to everyone who receives River Murray water, including all properties under a Supply by Measure Agreement connected directly or indirectly to any of the following trunk mains:

Morgan Whyalla No 1
Morgan Whyalla No 2
Swan Reach Stockwell
Mannum Adelaide
Murray Bridge Onkaparinga
Tailem Bend Keith
or from a pipeline situated within any of the Water Districts or Country Lands Water Districts

The water districts or 'country land' districts listed below are covered by the level 3 restrictions. If it is not clear which district you belong to, please call our Water restrictions Hotline on 1800 130 952.

A
Adelaide, Alford, Angaston, Apppila, Ardrossan, Arthurton,  Auburn
B
Balaklava, Barmera, Barossa,  Beetaloo,  Berri,  Birdwood,  Blanchetown,  Blyth,  Booborowie,  Booleroo Centre, Bowmans,  Brinkley,  Brinkworth,  Bundaleer,  Burdett,  Burra,  Bute
C
Cadell, Callington, Caltowie, Cambrai, Clare, Clayton, Clinton, Cobdogla, Coobowie, Cooltong, Coonalpyn Downs, Coonalpyn, Crystal Brook, Cudlee Creek, Curramulka 
D
Dublin
E
Eden Valley, Edithburgh,  Encounter Bay,  Eudunda
F
Farrell Flat, Freeling
G
Georgetown, Gladstone, Glossop, Goolwa, Greenock, Gulnare, Gumeracha 
H
Halbury, Hamley Bridge, Hampden, Hoyleton
I
Iron Knob
J
Jamestown, Jervois, Jutland 
K
Kadina, Kanmantoo, Kapunda, Karoonda, Keith, Kersbrook, Kingston-On-Murray, Koolunga
L
Laura, Leasingham, Loxton, Lyndoch
M
Maitland, Mallala, Mannum, Mannum-Adelaide, Marrabel, Meningie, Middleton, Milang, Minlaton, Mintaro Moculta, Monash, Monteith, Moonta Mines, Moonta,  Moorook, Morgan, Morgan-Whyalla, Mount Barker, Mount Pleasant, Mundallio, Mundoora, Murray Bridge, Mypolonga, Myponga  
N
Napperby, Narrung, Nectar Brook, Neeta-Cowirra, Nuriootpa 
O
Owen
P
Palmer, Paringa Township, Paskeville, Penwortham,  Peterborough, Pine Point, Point Pass, Pompoota, Port Augusta, Port Broughton, Port Elliot, Port Germein, Port Hughes, Port Parham/Webb Beach, Port Pirie, Port Victor, Port Victoria, Port Vincent, Price
R
Redbanks, Redhill, Renmark, Rhynie, Riverton, Robertstown, Roseworthy, Rowland Flat
S
Saddleworth, Sedan, Seppeltsfield, Sevenhill, Snowtown, South Kilkerran, Spalding, Springton, St Kilda, Stansbury, Stockport, Stockwell, Strathalbyn, Sutherlands, Swan Reach
T
Tailem Bend, Tanunda, Tarlee, Tintinara, Truro, Tungkillo,Two Wells
V
Victor Harbor, Virginia
W
Waikerie, Wakefield, Wall, Wallaroo Mines, Wallaroo, Warnertown, Warren, Wasley, Watervale, Whyalla, Williamstown, Windsor, Wirrabara,Wool Bay
Y
Yacka, Yongala, Yorketown

Do water restrictions apply to the water I pump from a bore on my property?

The use of a privately owned supplies from bores is an exempt activity under level 3 restrictions where SA Water has no jurisdiction. SA Water suggests, however, that people check with the Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation or 8463 6815 for any other requirements that apply to bores and consider advising their neighbours that they have an alternate water source.

Is use of Grey Water, (ie from shower and sink) covered by the restrictions?

Use of grey water is not covered by the restrictions. Manual bucketing onto lawn and garden areas using water from the bathroom or laundry, or temporary use of a hose manually fitted to the washing machine outlet hose, is permitted subject to the health advice from the Department of Health. Download the Greywater Fact Sheet for more information.

Grey water systems do require a series of approvals as these are designed to be connected permanently to the plumbing outlets. If you are considering installing a grey water system, please seek approval in the first instance from the Department of Health and contact your local council to ensure there are no restrictions for the use of grey water in your area.

Once you have the appropriate approvals from the Department of Health and your council, the final stage is to seek permission from SA Water to divert the grey water from the sewer as certain plumbing arrangements are required.

Rebates - Can I claim a rebate for the trigger nozzle I have purchased?

We currently don’t have a rebate on trigger nozzles. However, a number of water saving incentives are now available under the Home Rebate scheme.

What do water restrictions mean?

Restrictions at a glance:

DOMESTIC GARDENS AND LAWNS Please note: watering times are changing Sunday 5 October, to coincide with the beginning of daylight saving. The new watering times will be: Dripper systems and hand-held hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle can be used on one day a week for up to three hours: Either between 6am-9am or 6pm-9pm Even-numbered properties on Saturday, odd-numbered properties on Sunday (no change) Watering cans and buckets can be used on any day/time (no change). The current watering times - until Sunday 5 October are: Even numbered houses - Saturday 7-10am or 4-7pm Odd numbered houses - Sunday 7-10am or 4-7pm Sprinklers and other watering systems are not allowed. SPORTS GROUNDS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES Hand-held hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle may be used on any day but only before 8am or after 8pm. Watering cans and buckets (filled directly from a tap) may be used at any time. Sprinkler systems may only be used once a week for a period between the hours of 8pm and 8am. The day of the week and time of operation for each of the sprinkler stations is to be determined in conjunction with SA Water and subject to a permit Testing of sprinklers will not be permitted without prior approval of SA Water. HARD SURFACES Water must not be used to wash paved or concreted areas, decking, walls or roofs of a building at any time unless it is necessary to do so to protect public health, ensure safety of people using the area, ensure the health and welfare of animals using the area or in case of accident, fire or other emergency. Windows may be cleaned from a bucket filled directly from a tap. FOUNTAINS, PONDS AND WATER FEATURES A fountain, pond or water feature that doesn’t recycle water must not be operated and must not be topped up unless it supports fish. The level of water in a fountain, pond or water feature that recycles water may be topped up only with water from a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or bucket. Fountains, ponds and water features must not be refilled after emptying. SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS New pools or spas may be filled only under the authority of a permit from SA Water. A permit will not be granted unless there is proof a cover has been purchased to prevent water loss through evaporation. A permit is required to refill an existing pool or spa if it has been drained completely or more than half. The level of water in a swimming pool or spa that has been previously filled with water may be topped up or maintained only with water from a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or bucket. Children’s wading pools must not be filled with more than 250 litres of water. WASHING CARS AND BOATS Water must not be used to wash a vehicle except by means of a commercial car wash or a bucket filled directly from a tap. Hoses are not to be used. Boat owners are permitted to flush out motors and rinse off metal trailers to prevent corrosion. Vehicles that have been driven on the beach may also be rinsed off underneath the vehicle and the wheel arches of the vehicle to prevent corrosion. Commercial vehicles exceeding 5 gross tonnes require a Water Restriction Permit to allow the washing of these vehicles via high pressure low volume trigger operated equipment. A device can be used that draws water from a bucket or container and sprays the water to assist with vehicle cleaning. This method uses little water to rinse vehicles and it can be used within the current level 3 water restrictions as the device is not connected to a tap. BUILDING / CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES Water must not be used for dust suppression and compaction unless it is applied from a hand held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or directly from a motor vehicle designed and approved to carry/deposit water. FARMS OR RURAL PROPERTIES USING SA WATER SUPPLIES A farm dam or tank must not be filled with water unless it is being used for domestic or stock consumption or fire fighting. A permit is required to fill a dam or tank for any other reason. If a rainwater tank has been plumbed directly into a house by a licenced plumbing contrator it is acceptable to have a quantity of mains water in the tank. COMMERCIAL NURSERIES AND GARDEN CENTRES Hand-held hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle, watering cans, buckets or drip-watering systems may be used at any time to water plants in commercial nurseries and garden centres. Sprinkler systems may be used between the hours of 8pm and 8am. On days when the maximum temperature is forecast to exceed 30 degrees, sprinkler systems may also be used between the hours of 1pm and 2pm. CARAVAN AND CAMPING SITES Common areas are to be watered no more than once per week between the hours of 8pm and 8am via sprinklers. The day of the week and time of operation for each of the sprinkler stations is to be determined in conjunction with SA Water and subject to a permit Hand held hoses fitted with trigger nozzle may be used on any day but only before 8am or after 8pm. Watering cans and buckets (filled directly from a tap) can be used at any time October to March Grassed Areas that have been damaged by cars, caravans and/or tents may be watered with a sprinkler not more than 30 minutes on the day the area is vacated. If the grassed areas are not being used then they may be watered with a sprinkler no more than once per week for no more than 30 minutes April to September Grassed Areas that have been damaged by cars, caravans and/or tents may be watered with a sprinkler no more than once per week at any time for 30 minutes. Undamaged areas may be watered no more than once per week at any time for half an hour. Permanent Residents Must adhere to the level 3 restrictions for domestic customers as outlined above.

Where can I get a Permit Application Form?

Click here for a Level 3 water restrictions permit application form. 

How long is the permit valid for?

Business permits are valid for 12 months at level 3 restrictions. Any change to the level of restrictions will mean you need to reapply. Permits to fill a pool or outdoor spa are valid for 30 days and for one fill only. Customers will need to reapply for any subsequent fills.

Will I receive a certificate of approval permit?

Yes, you will be notified in writing if your application has been successful or unsuccessful. If successful you will receive a certificate to indicate the water use for which approval has been granted together with any conditions of approval.

I have a permit to water at different time because I am aged/have a disability.  What happens to my permit?

There will be no change to your existing conditions. Your permit will continue to apply.

I am establishing a new lawn, how will the restrictions affect this?

If you are wishing to install a new lawn (turf or seed) a permit form must be obtained for any watering which does not comply with the restrictions.  Click here for a lawn permit form for level 3.

How does SA Water define a drip irrigation system?

Drip-feed irrigation system – means an irrigation system (including a micro-spray system) that delivers water to plants in drops or other small quantities by means of underground or surface pipes or tubes.

Micro-spray system – means an irrigation system that delivers water through water-misting spray heads at a flow rate of not more than 0.5 litres of water per minute per outlet.

SA Water considers that drip irrigation systems include:

• Irrigation systems using drippers which efficiently deliver a measured quantity of water for each plant
• Buried micro-porous soaker hoses
• Micromist sprays (please use in sheltered areas only).

(Please Note: - above ground soaker hoses with punched holes are considered as long sprinklers and are not considered as a dripper).

Can I water with microsprays at any time?

Under the current restrictions micro-spray systems (as with drip irrigation systems) can be used. New watering times commenced on Sunday 6 April 2008 to coincide with the end of daylight saving. From 6 April the enhanced level 3 watering hours for drippers and hand-held hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle are:

Even numbered houses - Saturday 7-10am or 4-7pm
Odd numbered houses - Sunday 7-10am or 4-7pm

Is there any support available or exemptions for seniors who are having genuine difficulty adhering to the watering times under level 3?

Yes, some people may be entitled to an exemption form the restrictions on health and safety grounds. Please contact the Water Restrictions Hotline on 1800 130 952.

Can I water my lawn?

The new restrictions from October 1 2007 allow watering of any part of your garden - as long as the watering takes place as per the restricted times and via the allowed methods.

Can I wash my boat and boat motor off?

Flushing of boat motors is required to ensure the motor doesn't corrode and is therefore exempt from water restrictions. Washing of the rest of the boat is as per the restrictions on vehicles.

Water must not be used to clean a vehicle except by means of a commercial car wash or a bucket filled directly from a tap. If you need to flush your boat motor then please see WASHING CARS AND BOATS.

How do I water on an odds and evens basis if I don’t have a house number or live in a unit?

No street number
The house, street or lot number primarily determines whether you are an ‘odd’ or an ‘even’. If you have no street number you should apply the system using your lot number.  

If your property is solely identified alphabetically then A=odd, B=even, C=odd etc. Post Office boxes are not accepted as they are not linked to the property. Your Local Council or the Lands Title Office (1800 648 176) will be able to confirm your lot number for you.

Units
Residents of units or flats should use the street number that relates to their block of units. Not their flat number.

Is water use inside my house or business restricted?

No, only water use outside is covered by the restrictions. However, SA Water encourages wise use of water at all times, indoors and out. To find out how you can say water inside your home, click here.

Can I clean out the gutters on my house using water?

The cleaning of gutters is not covered by the restrictions. However, SA Water encourages dry methods to remove debris where practicable and safe.

Can I use a high pressure cleaner for washing my vehicle?

Under level 3 restrictions, no hoses are to be used to clean or rinse vehicles.

What classifies as a commercial car wash?

Car wash facilities with fixed infrastructure such as coin or token operated car wash centres can continue to operate.

Mobile car wash and detailing service providers will need to apply for a permit if they need to operate outside the restrictions.

Can dog kennels continue to be washed out with water?

As cleaning is required for health reasons this activity is exempt from restrictions.

Can I use additional water to clean aviaries and cool down birds during the day time?

As cleaning and misting birds is required for health reasons this activity is exempt from restrictions

I live within the lead dust zone in Port Pirie, can I hose off the lead dust from my property? What about sprinkler use?

Residents living in Port Pirie can hose off dust from paths and roofs using a hand-held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle at any time. This is an exemption under the current water restrictions. Residents within this zone also have an additional watering time to assist with dust suppression on gardens and lawns:

• Even numbered properties can use sprinklers from 5-8am and/or 8-11pm (during daylight saving hours) on Tuesdays and Saturdays
• Odd numbered properties can use sprinklers from 5-8am and/or 8-11pm (during daylight saving hours) on Wednesdays and Sundays

Hand held hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle may be used on any day for garden watering between 8pm and 8am and watering cans and buckets can be used at anytime.

Existing permits for age or disability will continue and all other level 3 restrictions relating to nurseries, car washing, pools, spas, fountains and ponds remain the same. There are no restrictions on the use of water from rainwater tanks and the temporary bucketing and hosing of greywater will continue to be permitted in line with the requirements of the Department of Health.

I live within the iron oxide fallout zone in Whyalla, can I hose off the dust from my property? What about sprinklers? 

Residents living in the affected area of Whyalla located between Playford Avenue and the sea (see map) are permitted to hose off dust from paths and roofs using a hand-held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle at any time. Residents within this zone also have an additional sprinkler watering time:

• Even numbered properties can use sprinklers from 5-8am and/or 8-11pm (during daylight saving hours) on Tuesdays and Saturdays
• Odd numbered properties can use sprinklers from 5-8am and/or 8-11pm (during daylight saving hours) on Wednesdays and Sundays

Hand held hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle may be used on any day for garden watering between 8pm and 8am and watering cans and buckets can be used at anytime.

The rest of the City of Whyalla is subject to level three water restrictions.

Existing permits for age or disability will continue and all other level 3 restrictions relating to nurseries, car washing, pools, spas, fountains and ponds remain the same. There are no restrictions on the use of water from rainwater tanks and the temporary bucketing and hosing of greywater will continue to be permitted in line with the requirements of the Department of Health.

Can I wash down areas for health requirements and legal compliance?

Yes, activities carried out to comply with health and legal requirements are not covered by level 3 restrictions and do not require a permit. However, SA Water encourages minimum water use in these circumstances.

I live in Mawson Lakes where recycled water is available for outdoor water use. Is this water restricted?

All recycled water continues to come under Permanent Water Conservation Measures including that delivered to Mawson Lakes residents. While Level 3 restrictions are not in force for Mawson Lakes outdoor use of recycled water (current restrictions apply to the use of mains water), sensible water use is encouraged at all times.  Click here for more details on permanent Water Conservation measures.

Can children continue to use water toys (water pistols, balloons etc) for outdoor games?

There is no restriction on this kind of activity. However, we ask people to please be wise with their water use and put some limits on water games.

Can children play under sprinklers?
While the enhanced Level 3 restrictions are in place there is to be no use of sprinklers for any reason.

Do I need a permit to empty and refill my indoor aquarium?

No, indoor water use is not covered by restrictions.

As a landlord, can I be held responsible for an infringement should a tenant fail to comply with water restrictions?

The person carrying out the activity will be held responsible for any non-compliance with restrictions.

How do I organise a water audit for my business? 

Please contact SA Water’s Water and Wastewater Minimisation Unit on 8207 1436.

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I have a business that requires me to use water to trade.

If it is likely the water use required will be outside of the restrictions, you will need to apply for an exemption. These are assessed on a case by case basis and you will need to download a permit application form.  

Caravan and Camping Sites - Do the restrictions relating to car washing relate to caravan washing?

Yes the same restrictions apply that apply to car washing. If you have a legitimate reason [eg mobility/disability issue] that prevents you from washing the caravan with a bucket of water you can apply for a permit that allows you to pre-rinse the caravan using a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle. These applications will be assessed on a case by case basis.

I’m a nursery/garden centre owner and need to use sprinkler systems outside of the restricted hours.

You will need to apply for a permit for any water use outside of that permitted by current water restrictions.

What arrangements are being made for commercial nurseries and garden centres?

Currently, individual nurseries will need to apply for a permit for activities which do not comply with the restrictions. SA Water will then make contact with each nursery individually. SA Water is working with the Nursery and Garden Industry Association - South Australia (Ph 08 8372 6822) to fine tune this process.

Do restrictions apply to the watering of Golf Course Greens?

Yes, the restrictions for sports grounds and recreational facilities apply to Golf Course Greens. A permit must be sought for any watering which does not comply.

Can I irrigate my vineyard or fruit block?

From 1 February 2008, SA Water customers using mains water to irrigate their commercial crops will require a permit from SA Water to continue this activity. Water available to irrigate will also be restricted. This does not apply to crops irrigated using recycled water or to irrigators who do not use SA Water supply. Please contact SA Water on 1800 130 952 to apply for a permit.
 

Can I fill a farm dam or tank with SA Water supplied reticulated water?

A farm dam or tank must not be filled with SA Water supplied reticulated water unless it is being used for domestic or stock consumption or fire fighting. A permit is required to fill a dam or tank for any other reason. If a rainwater tank has been plumbed directly into your house by a licensed plumbing contractor – in line with mandatory requirements for new homes – then it will include an automatic switching device to allow seamless transition between rainwater supply and mains water. In these cases it is acceptable to have a quantity of mains water in your tank. 

As a farmer, will the restrictions prevent me from washing down farm machinery or equipment?

No, the washing down of farm machinery as part of your business is not covered by the restrictions. However, SA Water encourages the wise use of water in these circumstances. The washing down of road vehicles, however, is covered by the restrictions.

Why are we having water restrictions now?

Water restrictions are now in force to help ease the pressure on South Australia’s water resources – including our precious River Murray. As the River Murray continues to be affected by the worst drought in recorded history, we’re asking all South Australians to help save water.

The River Murray provides up to 90% of Adelaide's water needs in drought years. This year it will take substantial rain to ease the immediate pressure on this precious water resource. So even if it rains, restrictions remain! We’re asking the whole community – including industry, business and householders – to pitch in and help ease pressure on SA’s water resources.

Will higher levels of water restrictions be considered?

SA Water provides ongoing advice to the South Australian Government, which reviews the requirement for water restrictions on an ongoing basis. Whether even stronger restrictions are required will depend on a range of factors including inflows into local catchments and water consumption.

Close monitoring of water use will continue and restrictions will be reviewed monthly based on available water and levels of use.

What is being done for the future?

The South Australian Government is implementing a range of strategies under Water Proofing Adelaide which are designed to reduce our reliance on mains water by 47,000 megalitres a year by 2025. When fully implemented, Water Proofing Adelaide will allow the State to grow and develop while providing us with a reliable water supply in drought years and as the impacts of climate change become more evident.

Will I pay less or more for water under restrictions?

Your water charges and service charges will stay the same. However using less water will mean the water use portion of your account will be reduced. The South Australian Government sets prices for water and sewerage (wastewater) services annually. This takes place in the context of national guidelines from the Council of Australian Governments (COAG). The guidelines ensure prices are reasonable relative to the costs of providing water and wastewater services. When setting prices, the Government seeks to achieve economically efficient outcomes while considering aspects of public benefit, such as equity, social justice, environmental issues and regional development.