Water restrictions and your business

In this guide:

Managing water use in your business

Different water restrictions apply to businesses throughout Queensland. To check what local water conservation guidelines and restrictions apply to your business, contact your local council.

Water restrictions for South East Queensland business

All South East Queensland businesses must comply with water conservation guidelines and water restrictions, which are available on the Queensland Water Commission website.

Some important restrictions that apply to businesses include the following:

Large volume users (using more than 10 megalitres a year) must audit their workplace and make permanent savings.
Commercial properties (using more than 1 megalitre a year) must have water-efficient appliances such as cooling towers, urinals, and low-flow taps and fixtures.
Fixed and mobile commercial washers (of vehicles, buildings and dogs) must only use water in accordance with guidelines and only following registration and training.
Commercial pool and spa operators must keep a weekly log and install a rainwater tank, a sub-meter and a clear view screen in the backwash outlet line where required, together with a range of water-efficient fittings.
Active playing surface operators must only use water in accordance with guidelines. They also need to register, keep a record of water use, use less than their allocation and only water at specified times.
Visitor accommodation operators must display water conservation information in bathrooms to help guests be water wise.

The Queensland Water Commission is updating guidelines for specific industries together with industry representatives and technical experts.

Business continuity planning

You can plan for the potential impact of water restrictions on your business. Developing a risk management plan , as part of your overall business continuity plan, will help your business prepare for emergencies, such as severe water restrictions, and minimise loss of business.