The Australian Democrats have called for a moratorium on new private swimming pools in Adelaide to save trees across the city at risk from the drought.
Democrat MP Sandra Kanck said swimming pools were a luxury the community could not afford.
"Trees benefit everyone. They soak up greenhouse gases, cool our city, provide habitats for wildlife and can be enjoyed by every passing pedestrian, cyclist or motorist," Ms Kanck said.
"The average pool holds 50,000 litres and 375 new pools, holding 19 million litres of water, were approved in Adelaide's eastern suburbs alone last year."
Ms Kanck said that was enough water to give about 1,500 significant trees a lifesaving monthly soak.
Gardening experts said thousands of trees across Adelaide were at risk of dying this summer after three years of poor rainfall.