George Municipality urges residents to tighten water use as Dam levels drop

Update

GEORGE NEWS - The Garden Route Dam storage level currently stands at 61.88%, reflecting a steady decline due to limited rainfall in recent months.

Only 4mm of rain was recorded between 7 and 13 October, highlighting the need for all residents and businesses in George to conserve water and strictly adhere to existing water restrictions.

In response, George Municipality has established a Water Management Task Team to strengthen the city’s Water-Saving Programme, focusing on drought response, infrastructure planning, and public awareness.

The team includes representatives from Civil Engineering Services, Community Safety and Mobility, Planning and Development, Communication, Community Services, Technical Engineering Services, Finance, and Corporate Services.

At a recent meeting, the Task Team reviewed the current water situation and key actions, including enforcing water restrictions, promoting responsible use, and ensuring municipal facilities lead by example.

Discussions also covered private sector compliance, leak management, infrastructure upgrades, and collaboration on catchment management to secure a sustainable water supply for all residents.

Executive Mayor Alderman Jackie von Brandis said the Municipality is taking proactive steps to manage the situation. “We are entering a period of increasing water stress, and every drop counts,” she said.

“This is a collective responsibility — the Municipality, residents, and businesses must all play their part to protect our most precious resource. Our focus is on sustainability, not only for today but for future generations.”

Director of Civil Engineering Services, Mr. Jannie Koegelenberg, who leads the Water Management Task Team, highlighted coordinated efforts across departments.

“We are monitoring the top 100 high consumers, checking for leaks, enforcing water restrictions, and increasing awareness efforts,” he said. “We urge all residents, businesses, schools, and sports facilities to review their water use and reduce wastage wherever possible.”

Water restrictions reminder: Level 2B in effect

Residents are reminded that Level 2B Water Restrictions remain in effect. Key measures include:

No mechanical or automatic irrigation or sprinkler systems.
Handheld buckets may be used at any time for watering gardens.
Handheld garden hoses may only be used within designated time frames:
- September–April: 18:00–20:00
- May–August: 17:00–19:00
- Retirement facilities: 16:00–18:00 (year-round)
- Even-numbered households: Mondays and Thursdays
- Uneven-numbered households: Tuesdays and Fridays
- No washing of vehicles with hosepipes, except at formal car washes
- No filling of swimming pools or cleaning outside surfaces using potable water

Exemption applications

Residents or businesses seeking exemption from specific restrictions may apply in writing. Forms are available from the Civil Engineering Services Directorate, Old Town Hall, corner of Market and York Streets, or by contacting Ms. G. van Niekerk at 044 801 9354 or gvanniekerk@george.gov.za.

Reporting water restriction violations and penalties

Contraventions can be reported to gmun@george.gov.za, 044 801 6350 (07:45–16:30), or 044 801 6300 (after hours, standby for bylaw emergencies). Investigations are conducted by George Municipal Law Enforcement.

Any person who contravenes the restrictions is guilty of an offence and, upon conviction, may face a fine as published in the annual tariffs list or up to six months’ imprisonment. Repeat offenders will incur double fines.