Glen Innes Severn Council is continuing to closely monitor water levels at Beardy Weir as dry conditions persist across the region, with current Level 2 water restrictions remaining in place for Glen Innes under Council’s Drought Management Plan.
Beardy Weir is Glen Innes’ main water source, and inspections earlier this year confirmed water levels had reached the trigger point for Level 2 restrictions, prompting Council to act early to manage water use responsibly.
General Manager Bernard Smith said water use across the town has already begun to decline, however further reductions are still required.
“Under Level 2 restrictions, typical national water use targets are between 200 and 225 litres per person per day,” he said.
“Glen Innes is currently averaging around 225 to 250 litres per person per day, which shows the community has already made meaningful reductions. Council thanks residents and businesses for that effort, but further savings are still needed to meet Level 2 targets and help protect the town’s water supply.”
Mr Smith said conditions will continue to be closely monitored as dry weather continues.
“If rainfall does not improve in the coming weeks, Council may need to consider moving to Level 3 water restrictions, which would reduce the target further to around 180 to 200 litres per person per day,” he said.
“By continuing to use water wisely now, the community can help slow the need for tighter restrictions later.”
Level 2 water restrictions introduce clearer limits on how and when water can be used, particularly for outdoor activities.
For households, garden watering is limited to hand‑held hoses or drippers only, for up to two hours per day, and not between 10am and 4pm, with sprinklers and irrigation systems not permitted for domestic use.
Cleaning of paved outdoor areas, walls and roofs must be done by bucket only, unless required by law, and a permit is required to fill swimming pools over 2,000 litres.
Separate watering limits and set times apply to public gardens, sporting facilities, commercial operators and primary producers.
There are no Level 2 restrictions on washing motor vehicles, household water cartage, automatic flush toilets, ready‑mixed concrete or industrial uses.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to check what is permitted under Level 2 water restrictions via Council’s website and official channels.
Media Release: Glen Innes Severn Council
