The Victorian Government has announced it will be ending Stage 1 water restrictions as of the start of December.

 

Premier Ted Baillieu said the move would give customers more choice with their outdoor water use.

 

“From 1 December 2012 Victorians will be able to use their sprinkler watering system on any day of the week between 6 pm and 10 am. Hand held hoses with a trigger nozzle can also be used on any day of the week at any time,” Mr Baillieu said.

 

“Melbourne’s water storages have now recovered to 81.3 per cent – the highest they have been at this time of year since 30 November 1996.”

 

State Water Minister, Peter Walsh, said at the current storage level, Melbourne was able to ease water restrictions and maintain efficient water practices under Permanent Water Use Rules.

 

Under Permanent Water Use Rules, Victorians can:

  • water residential or commercial gardens or lawns using a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle at any time, on any day of the week
    • hand-held hoses must be in good condition and leak free
  • water residential and commercial gardens and lawns with a watering system only between 6 pm and 10 am on any day
  • water public gardens, lawns and playing surfaces with a watering system between
    6 pm and 10 am on any day of the week.
    • councils and sporting clubs may choose to water under a Water Use Plan instead which provides the flexibility to water when most appropriate, while ensuring water is used efficiently
  • operate fountains and water features that recirculate water
  • only clean paved areas for health and safety reasons or to remove stains once a season, using either a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or a high pressure cleaning device.