Critical water shortages caused by a lack of snow runoff from this past winter means we have to do more to conserve our precious drinking water. Stage 3 has now come into effect in Greater Vancouver.
These water restrictions will remain in place until October 15, 2026. Most outdoor water use is now banned, with the goal of conserving drinking water supplies during a period of low snowpack and major infrastructure upgrades. Fines for violating these rules are $750 per offense.
Here are the details of what’s allowed and what isn’t:
Yard and Plant Care
- Lawns: All lawn watering is completely prohibited.
- Trees, Shrubs, and Flowers: No sprinklers or soaker hoses are allowed. You may only water these by hand anytime using a container, drip irrigation, or a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle.
- Vegetable Gardens: Watering edible plants is allowed at any time.
Cleaning Vehicles and Surfaces
- Vehicles: Washing cars at home is prohibited, except for spot-cleaning windows, lights, mirrors, and licence plates for safety. You can, however, take your vehicle to a water-efficient commercial car wash. These type of car wash stations utilize recycled water to assist with conservation.
- Outdoor Surfaces: Washing impermeable surfaces (such as driveways, sidewalks, and house siding) using a hose or pressure washer is banned. Aesthetic cleaning is not permitted. Hired commercial cleaners may wash surfaces for safety or to preparation for painting. Windsor Garden is undertaking a major painting project this summer and will have a professional commercial cleaning company preparing the doors in the complex for painting.
Water Features
- Decorative water features: These are currently banned, including the small ones that fit on balconies. However, they may be filled with rainwater, grey water (from baths, sinks and appliances), recycled water or other non-municipal water sources. Be careful with this, as you must need to be able to prove that you are using non-tap water if challenged.
For full details on municipal bylaws, visit the City of Vancouver Water Restrictions portal or the Metro Vancouver regional dashboard.
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