What you need to know
Stage 3 water restrictions in effect starting June 8, 2026
On June 1, 2026, Metro Vancouver announced that Stage 3 water restrictions External website, opens in new tab will start June 8, 2026, across the region. These restrictions help protect the water supply while construction of the Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel is underway and respond to low snow pack and expected drought conditions.
Who sets and enforces the rules
- Metro Vancouver sets the rules for watering restrictions.
- We enforce the rules through our Drinking Water Conservation By-law PDF file (280 KB).
- Watering infractions could result in an increased fine under Stage 3 restrictions.
How long will the water restrictions last
Stage 3 restrictions will stay in place until October 15, 2026, unless otherwise stated.
Information icon No water exemption permits are issued under Stage 2, 3, or 4 restrictions as stated in section 3.5 of the Drinking Water Conservation By-law PDF file (280 KB).
Stage 3: Water restrictions in effect June 8
Residential
Note Lawn watering is prohibited.
- Trees, shrubs, and flowers can be watered at any time using a water container, drip irrigation, or hose with spring-loaded nozzle. Sprinklers and soaker hoses are prohibited.
- Vegetable gardens can be watered any time.
- Pools, hot tubs, and decorative water features, such as fountains, cannot be filled or topped up.
- Vehicles and boats cannot be washed at home except to clean windows, lights, mirrors, licence plates, and boat engines for safety. They may be washed at a water-efficient commercial car wash.
- Washing impermeable surfaces is prohibited except for health and safety reasons or if preparing a surface for painting or similar treatment by a commercial cleaning operation.
Non-residential
Note Lawn watering is prohibited.
- Trees, shrubs, and flowers can be watered at any time using a water container, drip irrigation, or hose with spring-loaded nozzle. Sprinklers and soaker hoses are prohibited.
- Vegetable gardens can be watered any time.
- Decorative water features, such as fountains, cannot be filled or topped up.
- Washing impermeable surfaces is prohibited except for health and safety reasons or if preparing a surface for painting or similar treatment by a commercial cleaning operation.
- Filling and topping up pools and hot tubs can be done with an operating permit.
- Watering at golf courses and sports fields is reduced, but operators can still water to protect these private and public assets.
- Water play parks may operate if they have user-activated switches.
Understanding watering restrictions
Seasonal water restrictions are in place each year, regardless of weather, and usually begin at Stage 1.
- Summer water demand is mostly from:
- Lawn watering
- Plant irrigation
- Other outdoor uses.
Following these restrictions helps conserve drinking water when demand is high. Water restrictions are part of the regional Drinking Water Conservation Plan External website, opens in new tab set by Metro Vancouver.
Review the full list of restrictions for Stages 1 to 4 External website, opens in new tab
