Metro Vancouver’s annual regional lawn watering regulations come into effect on May 1, limiting the days and times during which residential and non-residential properties can water lawns.
Regulations help conserve treated drinking water through the dry, hot summer months. Water use in our region increases by as much as 50% in the summer and early fall, due in large part to lawn watering. The regulations also help reinforce the need to lower per capita use which can potentially work to delay capital infrastructure, lower operational costs and address challenges related to climate change.
Regulations are in effect May 1 to October 15.
When to water (residential):
- Even-numbered addresses — Wednesdays and Saturdays, between 4 am and 9 am
- Odd-numbered addresses — Thursdays and Sundays, between 4 am and 9 am
- Trees, shrubs and flowers can be watered with a sprinkler any day between 4 am and 9 am, or any time by hand or using drip irrigation.
When to water (non-residential):
- Even-numbered addresses — Mondays between 1 am and 6 am, and Fridays 4 am to 9 am
- Odd-numbered addresses — Tuesdays, between 1 am and 6 am, and Fridays, 4 am to 9 am
- Trees, shrubs and flowers can be watered with a sprinkler any day between 1 am and 9 am, or any time by hand or using drip irrigation.
As outlined in the 2020 Water Quality Annual Report, Metro Vancouver continues to fulfill its role in confirming that the multiple protections for drinking water — including watershed protection, water treatment and the ongoing operation of the water system — deliver excellent water quality to the region.
In 2020, the quality of our treated water was excellent. All water quality parameters analyzed met or exceeded water quality standards and the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.
We love water! Use a little less. Care a little more. Find tips and tricks for outdoor water conservation at www.welovewater.ca.
