The restriction, which also limits agricultural irrigation, is not due to water shortage, but to yesterday's storm damage to the electricity network.

The Goldenfields Water Council Council says the widespread power outage caused by the storm had limited the ability of the Jugiong water treatment plant and associated network pump stations to transport water across the system.

The council issued a statement advising that its staff are working closely with the relevant energy supply companies to establish an estimated time frame for re-energising these assets.

"Whilst there is no immediate risk of loss of water supply to our customers as our reservoir levels currently remain full, Goldenfields Water are preparing for an extended period of power outage that may lead to reduced levels of service to customers at some stage," the council said.

"Therefore; due to the current unknown time frame for re-establishing power to allow for the transport of water across the Jugiong scheme, we are imposing an immediate Level three restriction of water supply activities for all customers located within the Hilltops Council and the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council areas.

"These restrictions apply to the townships and surrounding areas of Jugiong, Young, Harden, Wallendbeen, Cootamundra and Stockinbingal.

"All of the above towns and surrounding areas are under level three water restrictions until further notice.

"Goldenfields Water wishes to apologise for any inconvenience and thank everyone for their patience during this period of restriction.

"The following restrictions apply to all customers (residential, rural and commercial) within the Jugiong Water Supply Scheme:

"Domestic Use: Sprinkler and soaker hoses banned; hand held hoses or watering cans may only be used between 5-7pm; filling of swimming pools and spas is prohibited; washing motor vehicles: bucket washing, trigger hose or pressure cleaners for rinsing; minimise shower use to less than 4 minutes

"Commercial/Rural use: Use of irrigation between 3-4pm only; crop spraying and bulk water usage is banned. Please contact Goldenfields Water for further information.

"Under the Local Government Act 1993, the maximum penalty that may be applied for a breach of imposed water restrictions is $2,200 for corporations and $220 for individuals.

"Notice is hereby given under Regulation 137 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, which permits the use of water to be restricted if there is a shortage of supply. This notice shall take effect immediately from 2nd December 2020 and will remain in effect until varied by further notice.