WHILE some residents have raised concerns about neighbours in built-up areas using bore water during restrictions, Orange's state member says bore owners are within their rights to use them.
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Orange City Council held water forums earlier this month where residents were informed of latest developments on water infrastructure and storage and given the opportunity to ask questions.
One resident raised the question of neighbours in town continuing to water outside water restrictions because they had a bore and the potential implications for the water table.
She was told bores were outside the council's control and regulated by the state government.
Staff advised residents with concerns to direct them to member for Orange Phil Donato.
According to the Bureau of Meterology website, there are more than 100 bores in the urban part of Orange.
You drive around Orange and you will see people watering their lawns with hoses.
- Member for Orange Phil Donato
Bores are not subject to the council's level five water restrictions, although residents who do not use town water are still asked to use water responsibly.
Mr Donato said no concerns had been raised with him directly.
"People put bores in to drought-proof their properties, whether it's for drinking or irrigation, that's a decision they make and I don't have a problem with it," he said.
"If someone's got a bore, they've got to get approval to put it in."
However, he asked residents to use 'bore water in use' signs honestly.
"You drive around Orange and you will see people watering their lawns with hoses," he said.
"People should do the right thing, but their behaviour sometimes doesn't reflect that."
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