Good news for green fingered residents: A small adjustment to the terms of Level 3 restrictions now allows for garden irrigation using water-efficient methods. 

With our dam levels sitting at just over 53% in comparison to approximately 24% this time last year, the City says a slight easing of the restrictions is reasonable, but it’s not for wasteful use.

Various methods of water-efficient irrigation are available such as dripper systems, drip-lines or soaker hose irrigation systems. A sub-surface or ‘direct-to-root irrigation methods are highly efficient and affordable.

However, the City says those who prefer to use a bucket or a watering can may continue to do so.

Water efficient irrigation methods using potable water are now allowed for a maximum of one hour on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays either before 09:00 or after 18:00.

Keeping Level 3 watering restrictions at the top of mind, residents can now make use of either a sprinkler, or a hosepipe fitted with a self-closing nozzle but only for one hour on a Saturday.

The Mayoral Committee Member for Water Services Xanthea Limberg says the drought was tough on us all, and required many lifestyle adjustments and behavioural changes.

 “While this aspect of Level 3 restrictions has been relaxed, residents are reminded that the need for ongoing restraint and adherence to daily consumption limits remain in place. The personal water use limit remains at 105 litres per person per day, and the City’s collective water usage target is 650 million litres per day.”

Please see the following links for information on:

·       Level 3 restriction guidelines: http://bit.do/L3-guide

·       Level 3 water and sanitation tariffs: http://bit.do/L3-tariffs

·       Level 3 overview: http://bit.do/L3-overview

·       Level 3 FAQs: http://bit.do/L3-faqs