Sydney businesses urged to apply for water exemption permit before fines apply   

SYDNEY Water has today urged businesses across Sydney, Blue Mountains and the Illawarra to apply for a water exemption permit if they need one, with Level 2 water restrictions now in place.

As Greater Sydney continues to face one of the worst droughts in its history, the NSW Government recently announced that severe water restrictions are in place, with Sydney’s water supply continuing to drop at the fastest rate on record.  

Businesses that use water in a way that does not comply with water restrictions will need to apply for a permit before January 31, 2020.

“We know that there are thousands of businesses across Greater Sydney that rely on the use of drinking water as part of their operations,” Sydney Water executive drought lead, Catherine Port said.

“In order to continue to use drinking water and avoid fines, businesses must apply for a Level 2 water exemption permit if they cannot comply with the water restrictions.”

Since Level 2 water restrictions were announced in December, Sydney Water has granted over 8,000 exemptions to enable businesses to keep trading, with thousands more currently being processed. 

“It’s reassuring to see we’ve had many applications, but we know there are many more organisations that will require a permit to continue their use of water,” Ms Port said.

“We’re urging all those businesses to submit their application ahead of the deadline on 31st January”. 

Level 2 water restrictions came into place last month (December 10) to save water while Greater Sydney is in drought.  Businesses do not need to apply for an exemption if the water being used is not drinking water. Types of water excluded from Level 2 water restrictions include recycled water, greywater, rainwater or bore water. 

Fines will apply from February 1, 2020 for businesses not using water according to the Level 2 water restrictions or under the conditions of their current permit. 

If a business has applied for a new permit or updated permit and hasn’t received it by January 31, they will not be fined. Sydney Water will be communicating with businesses to inform of this.

To find out more about Level 2 Water Restrictions, to apply for a business exemption and to hear about the many ways to save water both indoors and outdoors visit www.LoveWater.Sydney

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