The Queensland Water Commission has moved from Extreme Level restrictions (Target 140) to High Level restrictions (Target 170) across Brisbane and South East Queensland.
Under Target 170 residents can wash vehicles, clean external surfaces of houses, and water gardens and plants using a hand held hose with a trigger or twist nozzle for 30 minutes a week as follows:
| Property number | Times | Days | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M | T | W | T | F | Sat | Sun | ||
| Odd or un-numbered | 4pm to 4.30pm |  |
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| Even numbered | |
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Buckets
Gardens can be watered with a bucket on any day between 4pm and 8am, and buckets can be used for cleaning at any time.
Driveways
You cannot use a hose on paving, pathways or driveways.
Pools and spas
Under Target 170 water restrictions, there are limits to how and when you can fill or top up pools and spas.
If you have any questions about the restrictions, call the Queensland Water Commission hotline anytime on 1300 789 906 or visit their website.
Rainwater tanks and saving water
Installing and using rainwater tanks on residential properties is becoming more popular and encouraged or mandated by some councils. A rainwater tank is recommended as a water source for keeping your garden green, topping up the pool and other outside uses.
Provided your tank water has been collected from rainfall on your roof, you can use it for washing your car or hard surfaces at any time. Do not use mains water to fill your tank.
Your rainwater tank can be connected to internal plumbing for use in your toilet and washing machine but must be installed by a licensed plumber. Visit the Brisbane City Council website for full details about rainwater tanks.
See our directory for suppliers of tanks and tank equipment. Major hardware stores also sell them.
Rebates
Council rebates
Check to see if you are eligible for a rebate on your rainwater tank from the Brisbane City Council.
Other councils in the South East Queensland region may also pay a rebate towards rainwater tank costs or have approval conditions. Contact your local council for more information.
State Government rebates
The State Government offers a rebate of up to $1000 for purchase and installation of a rainwater tank. This is in addition to any council rebates - provided both rebates do not exceed the cost of the tank and associated installation and plumbing. Check the State Government's Home and Garden WaterWise Rebate Schemes to determine if you are eligible to apply.
The State Government also offers rebates for water efficient washing machines, dual flush toilets and other water saving devices.
Saving water
Pools and spas
There are limits to how and when you can fill or top up pools and spas. Check with the Queensland Water Commission for details, as it depends on what other water saving devices you have installed your home.
Read tips on saving water inside and outside your home.
Check to see if you are eligible for a rebate from Brisbane City Council for your pool cover.
In the garden
Native plants suitable for subtropical living are a good water-wise choice. Plus there are many exotic species that do well with only a little water, such as succulents. Read how you can keep your garden looking good even with current water restrictions.
Find out more about plants suited to Brisbane's climate and soils and don't forget that the better your soil quality, the less water you'll need to use to keep your garden green.
Have you got some simple water-saving tips you'd like to share? Add your comments below.
