General News
23 March, 2026
Water restrictions lifted
CAIRNS Regional Council has lifted level 4 water restrictions, with the region returning to permanent water conservation measures (Level 0).
Level 4 restrictions were introduced on Sunday 15 March to reduce drawdown from reservoirs after heavy overnight caused high turbidity and stopped water treatment plant operations.
Continued heavy rain in the lead up to Tropical Cyclone Narelle restricted further water treatment during the week and created the potential for further treatment interruptions as the severe weather system crossed the coast.
With the cyclone now past and treatment operation resumed, council has moved to immediately remove level 4 water restrictions and return to permanent conservation measures.
Council CEO Ken Gouldthorp said residents should be prepared for the possibility that tighter water restrictions could be required again.
“While conditions have eased, it’s important to understand this may not be the last time higher‑level water restrictions are needed,” he said.
“We are still in the wet season, and if severe weather again impacts water treatment operations, Level 4 restrictions may need to be reinstated.”
Mr Gouldthorp said the situation reinforced the importance of household preparedness.
“This is a timely reminder for residents to store water as part of their cyclone readiness,” he said.
Under permanent water conservation measures, sprinkler use is permitted as follows:
Odd-numbered houses may use sprinklers on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday between 5am–9am and 5pm–9pm
Even-numbered houses may use sprinklers on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday between 5am–9am and 5pm–9pm
No sprinkler use is permitted on Mondays
Hand-held hoses with trigger nozzles, watering cans and buckets may be used at any time
For more information on current water restrictions, updates on the reservoir repair work and tips for saving water, visit https://bit.ly/3NGd0wG
