Level 1 water restrictions are in effect for Mullumbimby, as of 5 November 2019.
It comes after a dramatic two megalitre decrease in one week of the water feeding the Laverty's Gap Weir on Wilsons Creek, which supplies Mullumbimby's water.
Byron Shire Council's Manager Utilities, Cameron Clark said the catchment area has only received 5mm of rainfall over the past week.
"The flow into the weir is now under one mega-litre and it's time to restrict water use," he said.
"We were hoping there would be some rain last weekend that would have topped up the water level, and while there were a few showers, there was no substantial change," Mr Clark said.
It has been 15 years since water restrictions were in place in Mullumbimby. Mr Clark said the current levels are some of the lowest flows into the weir since 2004.
For Mullumbimby residents Level 1 water restrictions mean:
- No watering of established lawns using sprinklers and fixed hoses.
- Watering of gardens only permitted between 6am – 10am and 3pm – 7pm.
- All hoses must be fitted with on/off nozzles.
- Topping up of swimming pools from hand-held hoses only permitted between 6am – 10am and 3pm – 7pm.
For business operators, such as nurseries, and rural irrigation, Level 1 restricts use of sprinklers to two hours per day. Businesses should check Council's website for permitted hours of use. Auto flush urinals on timers are also banned on commercial premises. There are no restrictions for emergency services.
The water restrictions will remain in force for Mullumbimby residents and businesses until further notice. Water restrictions are enforceable and penalties apply. Fines of $220 will apply to individuals and $550 for businesses who don't comply with the restrictions.
Mr Clark said the restrictions would help ensure the long-term security of Mullumbimby's drinking water supply.
"With summer approaching it's good practice for everyone to use water wisely. Reducing water use now will mean any introduction of the next level can be delayed."
Mr Clark said the Laverty's Gap Weir is extremely responsive to rainfall events so a heavy storm could see the restrictions eased quickly.
"We'll continue to inform Mullumbimby residents and businesses with updates on the restriction level and any rainfall events in the catchment area."
Water restrictions have not been implemented elsewhere in the Byron Shire, however residents are being asked to be careful with water use to delay the need for restrictions.
With the exception of Mullumbimby, Byron Shire's water supply is provided by Rous County Council (RCC) which manages the Rocky Creek and Emigrant Creek dams. RCC is the principal water supply authority for the Lismore, Ballina and Richmond Valley Shires as well.
Rocky Creek dam is currently 83% full and RCC will bring in restrictions when that level decreases to below 60%.
