Level 1 Water Restrictions Introduced for the Snowy Valleys

Published on 07 May 2025

Council is introducing Level 1 water restrictions across the region in response to ongoing drought conditions.

Council’s Director of Infrastructure and Works, Duncan Mitchell, said that while water supplies remain sufficient for now, taking early action is essential to protect the long-term supply.

“Although our current water production can meet the community’s needs, implementing Level 1 restrictions now puts us in a stronger position to respond if conditions worsen,” Mr Mitchell said. “It will be much easier to escalate restrictions if necessary, having already taken this first step.”

The NSW Government’s latest seasonal conditions report shows approximately 65% of the Snowy Valleys region is currently experiencing drought, with the remaining 35% classified as drought affected.

This is the first time Council has reintroduced water restrictions since 2020.  Mr Mitchell said that the timing is appropriate to raise community awareness and encourage responsible water use during the drought conditions.

“We are moving into winter, where there is generally less water consumption, so the impact should be minimal,” he said.

“Commercial water use, such as that involving fill stations and standpipes, will not be impacted under Level 1 restrictions. Limitations will begin at Level 3, if required,” Mr Mitchell added.

The Level 1 water restrictions will come into effect this Thursday, 8 May, and will remain in place until further notice.  The restrictions apply to all private, commercial, and industrial sectors across the region unless otherwise approved by Council.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to reduce their water use by adopting simple conservation measures. Key restrictions include:

• Watering using fixed sprinklers, drip and micro-jet spray systems is only permitted between 5:00 pm and 10:00 am daily.
• Hosing of hard surfaces, such as driveways and pavements, is only permitted using a hose with a trigger nozzle.
• Car washing is allowed only on grass using a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, or at a commercial car wash.
• Handheld hose watering of gardens and lawns using a trigger nozzle is permitted anytime.

Signage will be installed across the region to inform and remind the community of the Level 1 water restrictions.

Council will regularly assess the situation and keep the community informed of any changes.

For more tips on how to conserve water—such as taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and adjusting washing machine loads—visit www.svc.nsw.gov.au/water-restrictions.

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