Active Playing Surface Guidelines for Schools

The Active Playing Surfaces Guidelines apply to all schools using reticulated (town) water to irrigate playing surfaces such as sporting ovals. Water from the reticulated (town) supply system is not permitted to be used except where the following conditions apply:

1. the active playing surface has been registered with council
2. there is access to a water meter that can measure and monitor the amount of water used for the irrigation of playing surfaces
3. watering is conducted using a handheld hose, sprinkler, pop-up delivery systems, or efficient irrigation system during the following times:
   • Tuesday to Sunday
   • between 4pm and 10am
   • for a maximum of four hours per week.
4. if directed, a council approved sign is displayed on the premises; and 
5. the details of all irrigation events are recorded in a log book and are available for inspection upon request. Public schools are required to register each play surface area to be watered individually with council. In addition to recording the details of all irrigation events, schools are required to maintain a weekly log of total town water consumption at the school. Refer to Related Documents below for the relevant Registration form, Guide to registration and Log book template for schools.

Schools, including public schools, may apply to be considered as a Major Sports or Local Sports playing surface where dedicated water management practices are applied including:

• automated irrigation systems with controller mechanisms, such as moisture sensors; and
• dedicated maintenance procedures (such as aeration and application of wetting agents, regular checks for leaks in equipment); and
• regular record keeping to ensure effective and efficient water use for the irrigation of their active playing surfaces.

If a school wishes to be considered in this category, the school will be required to complete the requirements of the Major Sports categories. This is additional to any existing WEMP requirements (i.e. if a school consumes more than 10 ML/year). These playing surfaces should also be considered for their level of activity and significance, and frequency of use for major competitive events.

• Public schools are requested to contact the Department of Education, Training and the Arts for advice on whether consideration in the Major Sports or Local Sports categories is appropriate.
• Non-government schools should contact council directly for further information and advice on consideration in the Major Sports or Local Sports categories.