Keep our water safe and plentiful

Taking care of the environment, taking care of our future.

We have four critical goals related to water supply and sewage treatment:

To provide the best drinking water of any major city by 2020
To conserve potable water, and ensure water is available at all times
To protect Vancouver's waterways, and the environment
To ensure we are prepared for emergencies, including major disasters

Safe, accessible drinking water

Vancouver's water is collected in the Capilano, Seymour and Coquitlam reservoirs. On an average day, the water system delivers 360-million L of high-quality water throughout the city.

Water conservation and protection

Reducing water consumption, and being aware of what goes into the sewer are important parts of working towards the goal of becoming the greenest city in the world by 2020.

Environmental protection

Replacing combined sewer systems with separated sewer systems ensures sewage does not enter Vancouver's waterways, protecting the environment.

Emergency preparedness

A major disaster, such as an earthquake, could make our conventional fire protection system unusable. Our dedicated fire protection system is designed to pump potable water, plus salt water when needed.

Keeping our water safe

Water quality and pressure

Find out how the City and Metro protect drinking water quality, and how the City controls water pressure.

Be water wise

Conserving and protecting water

Find out about the City's water conservation efforts to ensure that everyone can have safe drinking water all year long.

Get help with your water and sewer concerns

Problems with leaks, floods, and sewage

Find out how to track down the source of water leaks, flooding, or drainage problems and when to call the City or an independent plumber.

Find out when to call the City versus a plumber for water pressure problems.

Problems with water quality or pressure

Find out how to track down the source of water quality and pressure problems, and when to call the City or an independent plumber.

Residential and commerical permits

A water service permit allows you to connect a new building with the City's water and sewer system.

Water and sewer connection permits

Find out how to apply for permits to connect your new home, laneway house, or other building with the City of Vancouver's water, sanitary, and storm sewer services.

Wastewater discharge permit (for construction at contaminated sites)

This permit covers soil remediation and contaminated water discharge during construction. Read the requirements, view the bylaw, download the application.