The George Municipality has implemented Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs, to start reflecting in this January 2026 municipal billing cycle.
The Municipality said the tariffs aim to discourage excessive use of drinking water, which is already limited.
The Council decision, follows the conclusion of a public participation process conducted in terms of Section 4 of the Water Services By-law, to limit or restrict the use of water.
Comments had to be in by 12:00 on Friday, 19 December 2025.
Browen Johnson, the Mayor of George, said in a statement on Tuesday, input was received and approved without compromising the integrity and sustainability of the municipal water supply system.
The Garden Route Dam is currently at 44,50% full. This a slight dip from last week’s 45.68.
The town only received 17 mm of rainfall this last week.
Implementation of the decision, means households are limited to 10 kilolitres per month. Consumption above this threshold will be charged at Level 3 emergency tariff rates.
“Businesses and entertainment facilities must reduce water consumption by 25%, while industries must reduce usage by 15%, measured against applicable historical averages.
Use of hoses by carwashes is prohibited and vehicles may only be washed using buckets, unless water is supplied from own sources.
High water users will be actively monitored, and flow-restricting devices may be installed where non-compliance is identified.”
Johnson also encouraged households with verified medical requirements necessitating higher water use, to apply for an exemption through the Deputy Director: Water Services, supported by appropriate documentation.
Similarly, businesses providing essential services — such as hospital laundry services operating under fixed-rate contracts — may apply for partial or full exemptions from usage reductions and for limited emergency tariff relief.
The decision was welcomed by some as a way to encourage water conservation, but others, have lambasted it.
Marietha Vosloo said on social media “another levy?? Wow. George municipality just approve the one development after the other one with no planning at all to invest in a new dam for water. Now residents and taxpayers get fined yet again and must pay up for lack by the so called councillors who can’t do planning.”
Nicole Roulston said “would also like to know how much water is being used on the ongoing N2 upgrade?”
Picture: Supplied