Stage 3 Water Restrictions Now in Effect

Stage 3 water restrictions are now in effect, as declared by Metro Vancouver, to protect the region’s water supply system.

Despite Stage 2 restrictions being in place since May 1, the region has used more water compared to the same time last year, when only Stage 1 was in place. Although the region’s reservoirs are currently at normal levels, the snowpack that helps keep them fuller longer is well below normal. Combined with the impacts of ongoing critical infrastructure work associated with the Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel project, as well as the anticipated increase in demand due to forecasted warmer temperatures, additional measures are needed to manage water use during the warm summer months and ensure adequate water supply for firefighting and other emergency needs.

In addition to the full ban on lawn watering already in effect, the following activities are restricted in Stage 3:

Watering of trees, shrubs and flowerbeds by sprinklers and soaker hoses is prohibited
- These areas may be watered at anytime by hand or by drip irrigation
- Vegetable and herb gardens are exempt and can be watered at any time by any means

Washing of impermeable surfaces, such as driveways, decks, sidewalks, etc. is prohibited except for health and safety or if done by a commercial cleaning operation to prepare a surface for painting or similar treatment
Vehicle and boat washing at home is prohibited except to wash windows, lights, mirrors, license plates and boat engines
- Commercial vehicle wash facilities are subject to restrictions based on the date the facility became active and wash system used
Topping up or filling of pools, hot tubs, fountains and decorative water features is prohibited

Staff are actively monitoring for non-compliant water use to ensure adherence with Stage 3 restrictions. Residents can also report observed violations online. Those confirmed to be in violation of Stage 3 restrictions may be subject to a $350 fine per offence, where each day is considered a separate offence.

Metro Vancouver has indicated the move to Stage 3 is hopefully temporary and will be reassessed once work on the Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel project completes in late July. If water supply and weather conditions are favourable, the region may return to Stage 2 restrictions.

For additional details on current restrictions please see tol.ca/waterrestrictions.