Concerns that water restrictions might follow a dry start to summer have materialised sooner than expected, with several Western Cape municipalities introducing restrictions even before the Christmas holiday season begins.
After an unusually dry and windy November, the provincial government has moved to implement water saving measures as a precaution. The decision was announced on Saturday, 13 December 2025, by Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell.
The restrictions follow seasonal forecasts issued by the South African Weather Service, which indicate continued pressure on water resources during the coming summer months. Given the province’s varied geography and water supply systems, restriction levels differ from town to town.
Towns Affected by Higher Level Restrictions
The following municipalities have been identified for immediate implementation of stricter water restrictions:
Level 6 restrictions
- De Rust
- Dysselsdorp
Level 4 restrictions
- Knysna
- Plettenberg Bay
- Kurland Village
- Natures Valley
- Calitzdorp
- Van Wyksdorp
- Ladismith
- Zoar
- Witsand
Level 3 restrictions
- Swellendam
- Beaufort West
- Albertinia
- Heidelberg
- Slangrivier
- Jongensfontein
What the Different Restriction Levels Mean
With memories of the 2017 drought still fresh, when dam levels dropped below 25 percent, authorities are emphasising early intervention. Current provincial dam levels are estimated at around 75 percent, but officials stress that responsible water management remains essential.
Municipalities have been urged to maintain infrastructure, ensure sufficient storage capacity, safeguard water quality and minimise losses through leaks in distribution systems.
Under Level 6 restrictions, residents face severe limitations on water use. Outdoor watering, washing vehicles and filling swimming pools are prohibited. Level 4 restrictions require individuals to limit water consumption to 105 litres per person per day, covering both home and workplace use. Outdoor hosing is not permitted, and vehicles may only be washed using a bucket rather than a hosepipe.
Precautionary Measures in Other Areas
Even towns with comparatively stable water supplies have been placed under lower level restrictions as a preventative measure.
Level 2 restrictions
- George
- Gouritsmond
- Stilbaai
- Melhoutfontein
- Riversdale
Level 1 restrictions
- Lamberts Bay
- Citrusdal
- Robertson
- Ashton
- Montagu
- Bonnievale
- McGregor
- Worcester
- Rawsonville
- Touwsriver
- De Doorns
Residents across the province have been encouraged to familiarise themselves with the applicable water restrictions and comply with them. Provincial authorities have reiterated that collective water saving efforts now will help ensure sufficient supply for all communities throughout the summer.
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