Level 5 water restrictions for Yeoval as creek and groundwater dry up

The tougher restrictions come only weeks after the village moved to Level 4 water restrictions.

Cabonne Council spokesman Dale Jones said the restrictions were due to insufficient supply in the Buckinbah Creek and unreliable groundwater availability.

"The flow on the Buckinbah Creek has slowed right down to almost zero flow," Mr Jones said.

He said conditions of Level 5 restrictions would be the same as those in Orange and Molong.

"There's no change to Molong as yet," Mr Jones said.

"We're in lock-step with Orange as part of the arrangement to purchase Orange water, we haven't needed it yet.

"If Orange goes to Level 5A, we would [as well].

"They are pretty severe restrictions but unfortunately there's no sign of rain."

Under the Level 5 restrictions residents cannot water lawns, they can only water gardens with a bucket or watering can each Sunday between 6pm and 8pm (daylight savings time), hand-held hoses, watering systems, non-fixed sprinklers, microsprays, drip systems and soaker hoses not permitted at any time.

Irrigation of new turf, topping up, filling garden water features, washing down walls or paved surfaces, topping up or filling swimming pools, spas, inflatable or temporary children's or pets' pools and washing cars at home are not permitted.

Use of evaporative air-conditioners is permitted only between 7am and midnight each day. Exemptions may be granted to aged accommodation or nursing homes.

For the construction industry, mortar or concrete mixing is permitted, and for wash down, paint preparation, curing businesses must implement and comply with a Water Saving Action Plan.

According to Cabonne Council, the Yeoval reticulated system supplies residents with chlorinated raw water only, which is non-portable. Providing alternative sources of drinking water is the responsibility of each householder.

Failing to comply with the restrictions anywhere in Orange or Cabonne could result in a fine of up to $220.

For more information contact Cabonne Council's Engineering Department on 6390 7100.