Each year from 1 June to 31 August, the Winter Sprinkler Switch-off applies to scheme and bore water users in Perth, Mandurah and parts of the Southwest and Great Southern regions. The annual switch-off helps save water for the hotter, drier months ahead.
More than 90 per cent of Western Australians already take part each year, helping save around five billion litres of water over winter.
And for most gardens, the extra watering simply isn't needed.
During winter, cooler temperatures and lower evaporation rates mean lawns and plants use much less water than they do in summer. Many lawns also become dormant during the colder months, so leaving sprinklers off over winter won't harm them.
Rather than using the same watering schedule year-round, it's a good idea to adjust irrigation settings with the seasons. Many irrigation controllers include a "Seasonal Adjustment" setting that can help reduce unnecessary watering and lower water use throughout the year.
What happens if you don't switch off?
The Winter Sprinkler Switch-off has been a permanent water-saving measure since 2010.
Anyone using sprinklers during the switch-off period without an approved exemption can receive a $100 fine. Inspectors monitor compliance seven days a week and all reported breaches are investigated.
The rules apply to both scheme water and bore water users. While bore water is sourced differently, it is still a valuable water resource and must be used responsibly.
Exemptions for new gardens and irrigation testing
If you've installed a new lawn or garden, you must apply for a watering exemption before using sprinklers during the switch-off period.
Exemptions come with conditions, and property owners are responsible for ensuring those conditions are followed, even if the work was carried out by a contractor.
Irrigation testing and maintenance is also allowed under specific conditions, including after repairs, installation work or power outages. Bore-connected irrigation systems are permitted to undergo maintenance testing during the Winter Sprinkler Switch-off period.
Who does the switch-off apply to?
The Winter Sprinkler Switch-off applies only to scheme and bore water users in Perth, Mandurah and parts of the Southwest and Great Southern regions.
It does not apply to irrigation systems using water collected exclusively from rainwater tanks. However, waterwise gardening is still encouraged, regardless of the water source.
With winter rainfall doing most of the work, switching off sprinklers for a few months is a simple way to help save billions of litres of water across Western Australia.
