In recent years it has been common practice for all southern Tasmania Councils who source water from Hobart Water (primarily Glenorchy, Hobart, Clarence and Kingborough) to co-operate on a campaign of water conservation.  This commences in November with signage, TV and radio advertisements.

The introduction of water restrictions is discussed and agreed by technical representatives of all Councils and approved by the General Managers.  All Councils named above co-operate in the joint announcement.

Water restrictions are imposed for a number of reasons

·        To ensure Council reservoirs are able to refill overnight

·        To provide adequate water storage volume for possible fire fighting purposes

·        To ensure water pressures are maintained in areas where demand causes capacity pressures on the pipe system.

Stage 1 water restrictions work on limiting water use for garden watering and a range of other activities to either odd or even number property addresses on alternate days.

Stage 2 water restrictions work on the same arrangement but limits the time for allowable watering.

The State Fire Authority may announce a Total Fire Ban for a certain day and time period.  If this occurs Hobart Water will place an advertisement in the Mercury newspaper restricting the use of all water for gardens.  Hand held hoses may be used to protect properties from fire danger.