Level 2 water restrictions will commence on Tuesday 10 December with Sydney Water dam levels in the region reaching 45 per cent, the lowest levels seen since the Millennium drought.
The restrictions have been brought in now, rather than at the usual 40 per cent, given the rapid rate of decline in dam levels.

Under the new Level 2 water restrictions:

• gardens can only be watered before 10am or after 4pm, with a watering can or bucket
• smart and drip irrigation systems may only be used for 15 minutes before 10am or after 4pm
• the use of unattended hoses is no longer permitted
• hosing of hard surfaces is not permitted, unless in an emergency
• cars can only be washed with a bucket or at a commercial car wash
• a permit is required before filling a pool of any size.

Businesses who use outdoor water will need to apply for an exemption.

If a business received a permit under the previous level of restrictions, they’ll need to contact Sydney Water to confirm it’s still valid.
Fines of $220 will apply for residents, and $550 for businesses, who don’t follow the restrictions.

The Level 2 restrictions are expected to save 78.5 gigalitres of water per year.