Port Coquitlam residents are advised that Metro Vancouver has activated Stage 3 water restrictions across the region, effective for enforcement Monday, June 8. The one-week lead time is intended to allow residents time to prepare.
Low snowpack and drought conditions have contributed to a significant reduction in available water supply, making conservation critical this season. Metro Vancouver anticipates returning to Stage 2 restrictions at the end of July, conditions permitting. Residents will be notified of any changes.
As part of the Drinking Water Conservation Plan, Stage 3 restrictions represent a significant escalation in water conservation measures. These restrictions are designed to protect the existing drinking water supply and reduce peak demand region-wide until seasonal rainfall returns or the water shortage situation improves.
The following regulations will be in effect as of June 8 until further notice.
Yards and Landscaping
Lawn watering continues to be prohibited under Stage 3. No watering of any kind is permitted. As of June 8, all existing water exemption permits will become void, and no new permits will be issued
Trees, shrubs, and inedible flowers and plants may be watered by hand at any time using a water container, drip irrigation, or a hose with a spring-loaded nozzle. Sprinklers and soaker hoses are not permitted.
Vegetable gardens may be watered at any time.
Topping up or filling decorative water features, including fountains and ponds, is prohibited.
Washing Vehicles
Home washing of cars and boats is limited to spot cleaning for safety purposes only, such as windows, lights, and mirrors.
Commercial car washes that are water-efficient facilities are permitted to operate.
Washing Outdoor Surfaces
The use of personal pressure washers and garden hoses for cleaning purposes is not permitted.
Hired commercial cleaners may clean surfaces only for safety reasons or to prepare a surface for painting, sealing, or similar treatment. Aesthetic cleaning is not permitted.
Pools and Hot Tubs
Topping up or filling personal pools and hot tubs is prohibited.
Public pools, including strata, hotel, and community pools that are permitted and regulated by the applicable health authority, remain open.
Spray Parks and City Pools
Port Coquitlam's spray parks are recirculating facilities with interactive, sensor-based or user-activated controls. As they do not use drinking water, they are not subject to Stage 3 restrictions and will remain open
City pools are publicly regulated facilities and remain open under Stage 3 restrictions. Water top-ups will be limited to what is necessary to maintain safe, health-authority-regulated operating conditions.
Sports Fields and Golf Courses
Public spaces such as sports fields and golf courses are subject to separate water restrictions under Stage 3, as outlined in Metro Vancouver’s Drinking Water Conservation Plan. For details, visit metrovancouver.org. The City has adjusted watering operations at all City facilities, parks, and sports fields accordingly.
Fines and Enforcement
Violations of Stage 3 water restrictions may result in fines ranging from $150 to $450, enforced under the City’s Drinking Water Conservation Plan Bylaw. Residents are expected to comply with all restrictions immediately.
Conserve Water
Every action counts. Residents are encouraged to reduce water use in and around the home by:
Placing leaves and bark mulch around shrubs and trees to retain moisture
Watering vegetable gardens at the roots and by hand only
Sweeping driveways and decks with a broom instead of a hose
Installing a shut-off valve or spring-loaded nozzle on your hose
Keeping a jug of cool water in the fridge instead of running the tap until it cools
Turning off the tap when brushing your teeth or washing dishes
Taking shorter showers
Running full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher
Installing low-flow toilets, which account for approximately 30% of indoor water use
Choosing low-flow, high-efficiency appliances when replacing existing ones
Report a Concern
Residents who observe a potential water restriction violation are encouraged to report it through any of the following:
Sort & Report App
604.927.3111
More information about Stage 3 restrictions and the Drinking Water Conservation Plan is available at portcoquitlam.ca/wateritright.
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