The restrictions mean the use of sprinklers and irrigation systems, handheld hosing and car washing can only be done on allocated days between certain hours. Odd house numbers (or no numbers) can water on odd calendar dates, and even house numbers on even calendar dates. (Note that this is street address, not unit number.)

Over the cooler months until the end of September, usage is allowed only on allocated days between the hours of 7-9am and 4-6pm. From October to April the usage hours shift to 6-8am and 5-7pm.

Cleaning paved areas using a  bucket or high-pressure water unit is banned at any time, with exceptions for health or safety reasons only.

Southern Downs Regional Council said the target water level consumption is a maximum of 200 litres per person, per day. 

“Tenterfield residents are already on Level 1 Water Restrictions and residents of Jennings and Wallangarra are now affected by Medium Level Water Restrictions imposed by Southern Downs Regional Council,” Tenterfield Shire mayor Peter Petty said.

“It continues dry in all areas of our shire with many rural residents already in the difficult situation of having to purchase water for stock and household use. 

“I encourage everyone to conserve our previous water resources as winter is typically a dry season and good rains are not anticipated in the immediate future.”

Households on the Tenterfield system are currently restricted to two hours a day for irrigation systems or fixed hoses, with no restriction on handheld hoses or washing hard surfaces.