Regional water restrictions will be in effect from May 1 until October 15 in Port Coquitlam, for all residential and business owners and the Metro Vancouver region. Residents are reminded that most lawns thrive with just one hour of watering per week.
Water use typically doubles during the summer months, placing significant strain on our water supply. By conserving water now, we can reduce peak demand, minimize costs for taxpayers by delaying the need for new infrastructure, and safeguard our water supply in the face of increasingly frequent heatwaves.
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 important regulations within our community.
The following regulations are in effect from May 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 summer 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.
For more detailed information about the water restrictions and additional water conservation tips, please visit portcoquitlam.ca/wateritright.
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