How emergency water tariff billing works

GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality has implemented level 3 emergency water tariffs with immediate effect as of 5 January, under the intensified level 2D water demand management measures (water restrictions) applicable to the greater George, Uniondale and Haarlem.

Some of George Herald’s readers wanted to know how the billing for their water consumption would work considering the short interval between the implementation of level 2C water restrictions on 19 December and then level 2D restrictions on 5 January.

George Municipality explains:

The level 2 emergency water tariffs (applicable to level 2C water restrictions), which started on 19 December, will be charged for water usage included in the January billing cycle, and level 3 emergency water tariffs (applicable to level 2D water restrictions), which came into effect on 5 January, will be charged for water usage from the February billing cycle going forward.

Note: 2D water demand management measures with level 3 emergency water tariffs were implemented for Uniondale/Haarlem on 9 January.

Your municipal account shows the water you used in the previous month:

• Water used during December is billed at level 2 emergency tariff rates on the January account.

• Water used from 5 January onwards will be billed at level 3 emergency tariff rates and will reflect on the February account and future bills.

Avoiding water interruptions in future

The municipality explains that emergency tariffs help protect basic water needs while water saving is encouraged. The aim is to avoid more severe restrictions or possible water interruptions in the future.

Indigent households continue to receive their basic free water allocation, but usage over 10kL is charged at emergency rates.

Emergency tariffs also apply to businesses and industries, including guest houses and bed-and-breakfast establishments, churches and church buildings, educational institutions, children’s homes, old age homes and crèches.

Flow-restricting devices

• Consumers who significantly exceed usage limits may be charged the highest tariff blocks, subject to increased monitoring and/or being fitted with flow-restricting devices.

• Continued non-compliance may result in fines or legal action in terms of municipal by-laws.

Exemptions

Households or businesses with verified medical, health or essential operational water needs may apply for an exemption. Phone 044 801 9354 for more information.

Dam level

The Garden Route Dam level as of 20 January was 45.36% following some rainfall of 57.5mm (measured from 13 to 19 January). The level is up by 1.88% from the 43.48% of a week ago.

The Haarlem Dam level was 29% following 23mm of rain (from 13 to 19 January), compared with the previous measurement of 30.42 % on 13 January.

Seasonal weather outlook

The South African Weather Services’ latest seasonal climate outlook indicates a weak La Niña weather system over the country. Below-normal rainfall and above-normal maximum temperatures are expected over the southwestern parts of the country for the 2025/26 summer season (December to April).

Report leaks or misuse

• Leaks and water-related queries: 044 801 9262/66 (office hours) or 044 801 6300 (after hours)

• Water misuse and violations: 044 801 6350 (office hours) or 044 801 6300 (after hours).

Scan the QR cod to view the water tariffs.