It comes after neighbouring Muswellbrook Shire Council introduced the same system earlier this month, encouraging the community to be responsible with their water use. 

The ‘Water Wise Rules’ will act as a guideline residents are encouraged to follow, but they won’t be penalised for not doing so.

The decision passed unanimously and while there is no immediate threat to water supply for Scone and Aberdeen residents connected to Glenbawn Dam, Murrurundi residents have been working hard to conserve water for some time under Level 6 water restrictions.

A council spokesperson said there is a growing expectation that all residents should be doing more to conserve water for others in the shire.

There is also no immediate signs that the Merriwa water source is being affected however with the impacts of the drought expected to be felt for a long time, nothing is certain. 

The rules are similar to Level 1 water restrictions and based on the ‘Water Wise Rules’ that are currently in use by Hunter Water Corporation.

Lawns and Gardens:  Watering, including with sprinklers and irrigation systems, is only permitted before 10am and after 4pm to avoid heat of the day.

Vehicle and boat washing: All road vehicles , boats and trailers may be washed at any time of day with a bucket or a hose provided a trigger nozzle or a pressure cleaner is used.

Hard surfaces: No hosing of paths, driveways, concrete or other paved areas, except when cleaning with water is necessary for reasons of safety, health, emergency, construction activity or surface discolouration.

People and animal: Allowed at any time for the purpose of cooling people or animals.

Private pools: Topping up of pools using a hose from water supply is permitted.

Building structures: Washing with the use of a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or high pressure cleaning equipment is permitted.