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Metering water use

Licensed water sources in the Western Mount Lofty Ranges must be fitted with a meter to measure water use and ensure the volume used remains within the water allocation. The exception is dams used only for stock and domestic purposes, which will not require a meter.

Water meters will help landowners monitor their water use and track their irrigation system’s efficiency, as well as help secure a sustainable future for the region’s water resources.

Landholders will be responsible for installing water meters on their property that comply with the current South Australian Licensed Water Use Meter Specifications.

Water meters need to be installed and validated within four months of water licences being issued. There is a requirement to notify the Department when an accredited meter installer or approved meter assessor has been engaged and the date that work is booked to be done. You will need to fill in the online Meter Notification Form for meter installation and assessment.

Licensees that need to install multiple meters, have complex meter installations or have special circumstances may discuss alternative timeframes with the Department once their licence has been issued. An extension of time can be requested from the Department via the online Meter Notification Form.

To help step you through your obligations for correct and timely meter installation, visit the following links:

South Australian Licensed Water Use Meter Specifications
Meter Notification Form


Water Metering Guide
Seven easy steps to organise water metering
South Australian Licensed Water Use Metering Policy