Level One water restrictions are now in effect across Douglas Shire after a prolonged period of dry weather.

From Wednesday, watering is only permitted between the hours of 6:00am to 9:00am and 6:00pm – 9:00pm on alternate days.

Watering only permitted during these hours on alternate days with a sprinkler, hand-held trigger or twist nozzle hoses, irrigation system or a watering can or bucket.

Properties with odd street numbers can water on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, while properties with even street numbers can water on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Watering on Monday is right out.

On-the-spot fines of $341 for residents and $1707 for non-residential customers violating the restrictions apply.

Douglas Shire Council approved the restrictions at a special meeting yesterday, during which Councillor Terry Melchert pointed out the shire’s critical lack of large-scale permanent water-storage facilities.

Mayor Julia Leu said that council was applying to the State Government for $11 million in funding to upgrade the shire’s water infrastructure, including storage facilities to guard against future shortages.

Further details of level 1 restrictions can be found on Council’s website www.douglas.qld.gov.au or by contacting Council’s Administration Building on 4099 9444.