The Stage 2 drought restrictions will be implemented with effect from Monday 1 September 2025, in line with Bitou Municipality’s Drought Management Policy to manage and prevent the increased risk in the possibility of water shortages. This intervention is triggered mainly due to the level of the Roodefontein dam dropping to below the 65% level as a result of below average rainfall received in the region. The latest seasonal climate forecast issued by the SA Weather services on 5 August 2025, for the period August until December 2025, indicates that during the late-spring season going into summer most areas of the country including the Bitou area are expected to receive below-normal rainfall.

The use of potable water obtained from the Bitou Municipality’s water supply system is prohibited for following activities:

1. (a) use of hosepipes or any other form of water conveyancing conduit product for watering gardens, cleaning walls and any structure situated on the property, washing motorized or non-motorized vehicles and spraying down tools and equipment. 
2. (b) filling or topping up of swimming pool, ponds and paddling pools,
3. (c) use of automatic swimming pool water fillers, 
4. (d) use of automatic irrigation sprinkler and drip systems, 
5. (e) use of automatic urinal flushing systems. 

All domestic households to limit water usage up to a maximum of 15 kilolitres per month. All domestic households, with excessive water usage, may have a flow meter restrictor installed to limit usage up to 15 kilolitres per month. Please take note that a fine being 100% penalty on council approved tariffs for monthly consumption in excess of 15 kilolitres per month per household, will be implemented. EXEMPTIONS: 1. The use of reclaimed water or water obtained from sources other than the Municipality's water supply system. Proof of augmentation source may be requested by the municipality. 2. The prohibitions contained in this notice shall not apply in any case specifically exempted, in writing, by the Director: Engineering Services. PLEASE NOTE: • Notice of augmented water supply placards must be prominently displayed on boundaries where water from sources other than the Municipality's water supply system is used for activities prohibited in this notice. • Landowners must notify the Engineering Services Directorate in writing of the existence of boreholes on their property. • Landowners must apply to the Department of Water & Sanitation for the intention to sink boreholes and notify Bitou Local Municipality accordingly. 

UNDER THE HAND OF: 

MR.FELTON 

ACTING MUNICIPAL MANAGER