Help Us Help You – Keep Your Water Meter Accessible

Published on 13 April 2026

South Burnett Regional Council reminds residents of the importance of maintaining clear access to their water meters as part of the regular meter reading program. Water meter readings are essential for accurately billing water consumption and supporting the efficient management of our water infrastructure.

Council will be conducting water meter readings across more than 10,000 properties throughout the region. These readings are carried out twice a year — between April and July and October and December — to ensure accurate billing and water usage tracking.

To ensure the process runs smoothly, Council personnel may need to enter properties to access and read water meters. It is the responsibility of property owners to ensure that meters are easily accessible and unobstructed.

Why it Matters

Clear access to water meters helps Council staff perform accurate readings and maintenance safely and efficiently. If access is obstructed, Council may be unable to take a reading and will instead rely on an estimated usage, which could result in inaccurate billing.

Do the Right Thing – Here’s How You Can Help:

Do:

Check that the meter is visible and readable.
Ensure the meter can be accessed easily.
Make sure the lid can be removed without difficulty.
Trim grass, shrubs, and trees around the meter.
Maintain a one (1) metre clearance around your water meter and avoid planting garden beds or trees nearby.
Ensure pets are securely enclosed during meter reading periods for the safety of Council staff.

Don’t:

Allow grass, shrubs, or trees to cover the meter.
Let sand, dirt, debris, or ant nests build up around the meter or meter box.
Damage the meter or meter box with tools or equipment such as lawnmowers or shovels.

Failure to maintain clear access may result in your meter not being read and your usage being estimated.

Further information regarding water consumption billing and other useful details is available here: Rates | South Burnett Regional Council.

For further information please contact Council’s Rates team on 4189 9100 or email info@sbrc.qld.gov.au