Residents of George may soon have to tighten their taps even further, with the municipality set to consider imposing stricter water restrictions during a Special Council meeting on 4 December.
The move comes as dam levels continue to fall and weather forecasts warn of a hot, dry summer ahead.
The Garden Route Dam is currently at 49%, significantly lower than what officials had hoped for heading into the high-demand summer months.
Months of low rainfall spark concern
A report due to be presented to councillors highlights a troubling trend: the region has experienced below-average rainfall for several months, while the South African Weather Service predicts low rainfall and high temperatures for the coming season.
Together, these conditions are likely to place severe pressure on water resources – not only in George, but across the Western Cape.
Officials warn that without immediate intervention, water security could be compromised.
Current restrictions may no longer be enough
George has been operating under Level 2B water restrictions since April 2024, introduced when the municipality temporarily increased its treatment capacity using a package plant.
These restrictions were expected to remain in place until the rollout of the new 20ML Water Treatment Works in January 2026.
However, the latest report suggests that the situation has changed.
Reduced river inflows and increasing strain on raw water supplies have prompted what officials describe as the need for “a shift in approach”, in line with the municipality’s Drought Management Policy.
If stricter measures are adopted, they would also trigger the implementation of Emergency Water Tariffs included in the current 2025/26 Tariff List.
Water misuse adds pressure
Despite ongoing public awareness campaigns, the municipality notes a persistent problem: non-compliance and water misuse.
Enforcement remains difficult due to limited law enforcement capacity to issue fines, making it challenging to curb wasteful use.
Legal process required before restrictions tighten
Before new restrictions can take effect, the municipality must follow its Water Services By-law, which requires:
- issuing public notices
- displaying the information to residents, and
- allowing a 14-day objection period
Because Council is preparing to enter recess, councillors are likely to consider allowing the mayor to handle public objections and finalise the approval process.
Dam levels dropping at up to 2% per week
Municipal data shows that the Garden Route Dam has been losing as much as 2% of its capacity per week, while river flows continue to decrease.
Officials warn that swift action is needed to prevent potential shortages – particularly during the festive season, when holiday visitors typically cause water usage to spike.
