George Municipality enforces Level 3 water restrictions as Garden Route Dam levels plummet
Lower dam levels at the Garden Route Dam serve as a reminder for all residents to use water responsibly
Image: Supplied
The George Municipality has implemented Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs with immediate effect after the Garden Route Dam dropped below 45%, increasing pressure on the local water supply.
The dam level declined from 45.68% last week to 44.50% this week, with only 17mm of rainfall recorded over the past seven days. The continued drop has led to the escalation of water demand management measures from Level 2C to Level 2D, together with the implementation of stricter emergency tariffs.
The municipality confirmed that the decision follows the conclusion of a public participation process conducted in terms of Section 4 of the Water Services By-law, which closed at 12pm on Friday, December 19, 2025. While Level 2 emergency tariffs were initially expected, the further decline in dam levels made the move to Level 3 necessary.
The process stems from a Special Council resolution taken on December 4, 2025, when the dam stood at 49%, approving tighter water restrictions in response to below-average rainfall and growing pressure on raw water supplies.
During the prescribed 14-day public participation period, comments and objections were received from residents and businesses. The municipality said all submissions were considered and written responses issued. Executive Mayor Browen Johnson noted the inputs received and approved responses and concessions where appropriate, without compromising the sustainability of the water supply system.
Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs will be reflected in the January 2026 municipal billing cycle and are aimed at discouraging excessive consumption and safeguarding limited potable water resources for essential use.
Under Level 2D restrictions, households are limited to 10 kilolitres per month, with consumption above this threshold charged at Level 3 tariff rates. Businesses and entertainment facilities must reduce water use by 25%, while industries are required to cut consumption by 15%, measured against historical averages.
The use of hoses by car washes is prohibited, with vehicles only allowed to be washed using buckets unless water is sourced privately. High water users will be actively monitored, and flow-restricting devices may be installed where non-compliance is identified.
The municipality said exemptions may be granted for verified medical needs requiring higher household water use, as well as for essential service providers such as hospital laundry services, subject to supporting documentation and historical consumption data.
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