Effective September 1, 2026, Port Coquitlam and the Metro Vancouver region will move from Stage 2 to Stage 1 water restrictions, allowing residents and businesses to resume watering their lawns one morning per week. The region is able to ease restrictions because reservoir levels are within the typical range for this time of year.
The Drinking Water Conservation Plan (DWCP) is a regional strategy designed to manage drinking water use during periods of high demand, water shortages, and emergencies. Administered by Metro Vancouver and implemented through municipal bylaws, the City of Port Coquitlam is responsible for monitoring and enforcing these regulations within our community.
Stage 1 restrictions are currently scheduled to remain in place until October 15. Under Stage 1, residents and businesses may also wash impermeable surfaces such as driveways and patios without restrictions. Edible plants are exempt from the restrictions, and these rules do not apply to rainwater, grey water, recycled water, or other sources outside the regional and municipal drinking water supply system.
The following regulations are in effect from September 1 to October 15 (Stage 1):
STAGE 1 RESIDENTIAL LAWN WATERING ALLOWED:
Even-numbered addresses: Saturdays — automatic watering between 5:00 am and 7:00 am, and manual watering between 6:00 am and 9:00 am
Odd-numbered addresses: Sundays — automatic watering between 5:00 am and 7:00 am, and manual watering between 6:00 am and 9:00 am
STAGE 1 NON-RESIDENTIAL LAWN WATERING ALLOWED:
Even-numbered addresses: Mondays — automatic watering between 4:00 am and 6:00 am, and manual watering between 6:00 am and 9:00 am
Odd-numbered addresses: Tuesdays — automatic watering between 4:00 am and 6:00 am, and manual watering between 6:00 am and 9:00 am
Watering Trees, Shrubs, and Flowers
Permitted any day between 4:00 am and 9:00 am if using a sprinkler.
Permitted any time if hand watering or using drip irrigation.
All hoses must have an automatic shut-off device. Exceptions to these regulations include flower and vegetable gardens, decorative planters, shrubs and trees, parks, nurseries, farms, and golf courses. New lawns require a permit from the City to be exempt from the restrictions.
The City’s Program Ambassadors and Bylaw staff will be out in the community to educate, monitor, and enforce the water restrictions. Non-compliance can result in warnings, tickets, and fines. We encourage all residents and businesses to adhere to these guidelines to help conserve our vital water resource.
Conserve Water — Every Drop Counts
Simple Ways to Save Water:
A healthy lawn only needs about one hour of watering per week — less if it rains.
Consider allowing your lawn to go dormant during the fall months.
Most lawns only require about 2.5 cm (one inch) of water each week. Use an empty tuna can as a gauge and turn off the sprinkler when it's full.
Leave grass clippings on your lawn and use mulch in your garden to help retain moisture and reduce evaporation.
Residents who observe watering violations are encouraged to report them through the City’s Sort and Report app, online at portcoquitlam.ca/report, or by phone at 604.927.3111.
For more detailed information about the water restrictions and additional water conservation tips, please visit portcoquitlam.ca/wateritright.
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