There may be some flexibility for you with water restrictions. Some residents may find it difficult to adhere to current water restrictions for a variety of reasons including:
- age or disability
- hours of business operation that make adherence to restrictions difficult
- shift work
- planting of new turf
In some of these cases businesses, residents, and non-profit organisations may be eligible for individual Water Management Plans which allow for water to be used outside current water restrictions.
Conditions of a Water Management Plan
Water Management Plans may be be considered in the following instances
Watering of new turf
If approved the plan will allow unlimited watering at any time of the day or night with fixed sprinklers for a period of 6 weeks following the installation of the turf.
The plan will apply only during Permanent and Level 1 restrictions.
Watering of lawn (not new turf)
If approved the plan will allow you to water for a total of two hours outside designated water restrictions times,
The plan will apply only during Permanent restrictions and must be renewed every 12 months.
Aged and Disabled exemption
If approved the plan allows you to water with a hose for 15 minutes only on Sundays and Wednesdays between the hours of 4:00pm and 8:00pm during Daylight Saving Time and 4:00pm and 6:00pm during all other times.
The plan will apply only during Level 3 restrictions.
Is there a cost
The application fee for a Water Management Plan in 2010/2011 is $144 for businesses and residents, $70 for pensioners, and $70 for non-profit organisations.
The application must be paid when applying to renew an existing plan.
You’re still under restrictions – and penalties apply.
Individual Water Management Plans and exemption signs will clearly state the agreed and set hours of water usage outside the designated water restrictions times. If a Council Compliance Officer observes applicants using water outside the parameters of their Water Management Plan, penalties will apply. The maximum penalty under the Local Government Act 1993 to apply for a breach of imposed water restrictions is $2,200 for corporations and $220 for individuals. The applicant’s Water Management Plan will also be revoked.
Make an application
If you are applying for a standard Water Management Plan you will need to complete and submit a Water Management Plan Application Form.
If you are applying for an Aged and Disabled exemption you will need to complete and submit an Aged and Disabled Exemption Form.
Completed forms and relevant fees need to be submitted to your local Council customer service centre.
More information
If you require more information please do not hesitate contacting Council’s water department on (02) 6767 5810.