Water Restrictions

Water is a precious resource and we recognise the need to use it wisely.

Permanent Water Saving Rules are a set of common-sense rules to reduce water demand and encourage us to water efficiently. These rules are uniform across Victoria and they form part of our Permanent Water Saving Plan.

In times of severe drought, we may introduce staged water restrictions to ensure water supply and sustainability in our service area.

Permanent Water Saving Rules

PWSR are in place to alleviate the stress household water use places on Victoria’s water resources. They are designed to reduce unnecessary water use and promote efficiency without restricting your options.

Our Permanent Water Saving Plan and associated rules are in accordance with the Water Restrictions By-Law 512 as approved by the Minister. Under PWSR:

• Sprinklers can be used after 6pm and before 10am
• Handheld hoses can be used any time if a trigger nozzle is attached
• Water should not be used to clean hard surfaces.

Please note: These rules will not apply in the case of an accident, fire, safety hazard or emergency in respect to the health of people or animals.

You can apply for an exemption from PWSR for the establishment of warm season grass by completing the PWSR Exemption Form.

Enforcement and penalties

Permanent Water Saving Rules are enforced under the Water Act.

If you see someone breaching the rules, please contact us with the details of the offence and one of our officers will investigate. Official warnings and on-the-spot fines can be issued for offences, while serious breaches may result in prosecution.

For more details, download our PWSR Brochure, or for tips on how to conserve water visit our FAQ page.