Request exemption from water rules or restrictions
Apply for a Water Use Plan to request an exemption from permanent water saving rules or water 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.