Sydney water restrictions to be eased – but fines will still apply
Water restrictions across Sydney will ease less than three months after they were ramped up to level two amid a devastating drought punishing Australia’s east.
Recent heavy downpours, including a period earlier this month which saw the heaviest rain for 20 years, has meant dam levels have replenished from concerning new lows.
Warragamba Dam levels rose above 60 per cent capacity from 43 per cent just 10 days ago.
The restriction levels will return to level 1 on March 1 once the water is deemed to have met the high quality standards set, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.
The change will also be implemented across the Blue Mountains and Illawarra regions.
NSW Water Minister Melinda Pavey announced the change, saying there are “a number of initiatives” to ensure the water is safe after ash contamination was found in Sydney’s main water source.
The big change from level two will mean people can use their hoses once again, however they must not be left unattended and can only be used before 10am and 4pm with a trigger nozzle.
Sprinklers are still prohibited.
Residents found breaching the rules will face a $220 fine while businesses can face fines of $550.
Reports can be made via the Sydney Water website.
The previous time Sydney entered level two water restrictions was during the Millennium Drought.
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