Request exemption from water rules or restrictions

In special circumstances, you can request an exemption from:

• some permanent water saving rules
• a stage of water restrictions.

For example, to use water for:

• swimming pools and spas
• private gardens
• public gardens
• ponds and lakes
• retail gardens and nurseries
• construction activities.

There are strict conditions to get an exemption.

To learn more about the exemptions, see the Urban Water Restrictions By-Law No 2.

Water Use Plan

For most exemptions, you need to have an approved Water Use Plan. A Water Use Plan is designed to maximise your water-saving effort in staged restrictions.

A Water Use Plan controls the use of water for specific purposes or for a specific stage of restrictions – for example:

• watering gardens, lawns and playing surfaces
• using water in swimming pools and toys
• storing and transporting water
• cleaning vehicles with water
• using water for other cleaning or maintenance purposes.

Request an exemption

Step 1: Apply for a Water Use Plan

Before you can request an exemption, you need to apply for a Water Use Plan.

To apply, complete the application form.

With your application include either:

• copies of receipts for water-saving products you have bought, or
• a Plumbing Industry Commission (PIC) Certificate of Compliance.

Submit your application:

• by email – scan the completed application form and email contactus@lmw.vic.gov.au
• by mail – to our postal address
• in person – at our Mildura, Kerang or Swan Hill office during opening hours.

We’ll get back to you within 10 business days. If we need more information, we’ll contact you.

Step 2: Request an exemption

When you have an approved Water Use Plan, you can request an exemption to urban water rules or restrictions.

Submit your application:

• by email – scan the completed application form and email contactus@lmw.vic.gov.au
• by mail – to our postal address
• in person – at our Mildura, Kerang or Swan Hill office during opening hours.

We’ll get back to you within 10 business days. If we need more information, we’ll contact you.