Water restrictions explained
Water restrictions are necessary during and after droughts in order to conserve our water resources and allow dam levels to recover.
Water restrictions
Cape Town is a water-scarce region vulnerable to drought. Protect our water resources by adhering to permanent water regulations, water restrictions (when in place) and
keep using water wisely.
Water regulations and restrictions
Permanent water-saving regulations are in place, in terms of the
Water By-law, and failure to comply may result in a fine or prosecution.
Water restrictions have not been in effect, since 1 November 2020, but please use water responsibly. If we can collectively use less than 850 million litres per day in Cape Town over the 2022-2023 summer, we can reduce the risk of restrictions.
View information on
water tariffs.
Water Restriction Summary Table
Download the table for a comparison of all restriction levels.
Download PDF Exemptions
Exemptions from water restriction may be approved in special circumstances. Click on the link below to find out how to apply.
Alternative water sources signage
You must display appropriate signage at your property, that is clearly visible to the public, if you use
alternative water sources.
Wellpoints and boreholes
You should register your wellpoint and borehole with us. Once registered, we will send you the necessary display sign, free of charge. Find out more about
registering a borehole or wellpoint.
Greywater, spring water or rainwater harvesting
You can download, print and laminate our non-drinking water sign. It should be printed in A4 landscape. This sign cannot be used for wellpoint and borehole water use.
Report water issues and offences
Help us save water, report water issues (e.g. burst pipes or faulty meters) and restriction offences:
Fire awareness
We reduce water pressure when water restrictions are in place so that we can limit water lost due to leaks and burst pipes. Property owners, businesses and facility managers should be prepared to respond to fire incidents.
Make sure:
- all fire hydrants, extinguishers and hose reels are in good working condition and are regularly serviced;
- ensure that all staff and occupants know the emergency fire procedures and conduct regular fire prevention awareness sessions, e.g. fire drills; and
- you establish and maintain fire breaks around the property.
As a property owner, you must speak to your insurer and other relevant bodies to ensure you are aware of all requirements and consequences of fires during a time of drought when water pressure is likely to be low.
If you manage a multi-storey building, you must ensure that the water supply system (booster pumps and rooftop storage) is in working order and complies with our Water By-law.
damages
We cannot be held responsible for any consequences or damage to private infrastructure resulting from water rationing or its associated operations.
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