CHANGES TO RAINWATER TANK USAGE  

Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils have agreed to a revised rainwater tank policy which aims to maximise the number of rainwater tanks connected internally by allowing some limited use of this water outside.

This follows a recommendation from the Gosford-Wyong Councils’ Water Authority Board to allow limited external use from internally connected tanks of 2,000 litres or more, subject to Level 2a water restrictions.

“The Councils want to encourage more people to internally connect their rainwater tanks as this provides the region with the greatest savings in town water,” said Gosford City Council Mayor, Laurie Maher.

“This is not an open-ended allowance for people to use their internally connected tank water as they wish. People with internally connected tanks must still do the right thing and use their water wisely in accordance with Level 2a restrictions.

“Residents with existing rainwater tanks who may have been considering connecting internally can now be assured that they will still be able to use a proportion of their tank water outside to keep their gardens alive or top up their pool as long as they use this water responsibly. They can also access the internal connection rebate.”

Wyong Councils Mayor Bob Graham said that the Councils recognise that rainwater tanks can be connected in a number of ways and still save water. Many people have bought rainwater tanks to save water and save money on their bills. Now the Councils have agreed to give greater flexibility to tank users.

“By complying with Level 2a restrictions they can still save water, save money on their bills and save with a Council rebate.

“The Councils will continue to provide financial incentives for people installing rainwater tanks. Rebates of up to $500 are available depending on the tank size, and an additional $300 to $500 per household for tanks connected internally, depending on the type of connection and volume of town water saved.”

Under the requirements of Level 2a restrictions, water from an internally connected rainwater tank can only be used with a hand-held hose supplied directly from the tank and fitted with a trigger nozzle, for half an hour a day on alternate days, 7am-9am or 5pm-7pm. Pools can be topped up. Boat engines can be washed with a hose for up to 10 minutes a day. 

Odd number houses can water on Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays. Even number houses can water on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays. No watering on Fridays.

External taps and water fittings that are directly connected to the town water supply will continue to be bound by Level 4 water restrictions, meaning all use not covered by a valid exemption permit is banned

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                                    Janet Saunders on 0438 191 328