A dedicated telephone hotline for the reporting of contraventions of current water restrictions has been launched by the George Municipality as part of its Drought Management Plan.
George municipal manager Trevor Botha said the dedicated 0800-number was free of charge to callers using landlines (not cellphones, which are billed per network rates) and was intended to make it as easy as possible for the public to highlight water concerns.
"The public can call 0800 424 277 to report any individuals, businesses or entities that are not adhering to water restrictions." he said
Calls made after hours will be logged and referred to the law enforcement offices for action during office hours.
Fines for the contravention of water restrictions in the George municipal area have been implemented as part of measures taken to manage the city's water security.
Repeat offenders can expect to pay up to R4 000 per offence, depending on the offence, or land up in jail for up to six months if found guilty.
Botha said that transgressors caught red-handed will be issued fines on the spot, which will be processed through the municipal court system.
A signed declaration by a witness reporting someone else watering illegally may also lead to a fine to the offender. After three offences, jail time may apply.
To successfully prosecute offenders, and register the complaint, it is requested that complainants furnish their full details. Complainants may ask to remain anonymous.
Botha said that businesses and individuals can apply for exemptions, but he said this would only be granted “under exceptional circumstances”, as restrictions are designed to discourage the use of water for non-essential purposes.
“We remind residents and businesses making use of non-municipal water, such as boreholes and reservoirs, to clearly display an ‘OWN WATER’ sign to alert vigilant neighbours and law enforcement officers of the fact. Please note that even with the sign, law enforcement officers may ask to see the water source to verify own water claims,” he said.
“This is not a witch-hunt, but a concerted effort to save water wherever and however we can,” said Botha.
