A boy waters plants with a watering can with the help of an older man

Water restrictions explained

What you need to know

Stage 1 water restrictions

On August 27, 2026, Metro Vancouver announced that Stage 1 water restrictions  will be back in effect starting September 1, 2026.

If you water outside of allowable times, you could be fined $250.

Stage 1 water restrictions will stay in place until October 15, 2026, unless otherwise stated. 

Common terms around water restrictions

Need help with a terms? Review Metro Vancouver's glossary of common terms for definitions used in water conservation planning and water restrictions.

Lawn watering regulations

Stage 1: residential lawn watering allowed

  • Even-numbered addresses: Saturday mornings
  • Odd-numbered addresses: Sunday mornings
  • Automatic watering: 5am to 7am
  • Manual watering: 6am to 9am

Watering trees, shrubs, and flowers is permitted on any day from 5am to 9am if using a sprinkler, and on any day at any time if using a hand-held hose with automatic shut-off device, a soaker hose, water container, or drip irrigation.

Edible plants are exempt from regulations.

Stage 1: non-residential lawn watering allowed

  • Even-numbered addresses: Monday mornings
  • Odd-numbered addresses: Tuesday mornings
  • Automatic watering: 4am to 6am
  • Manual watering: 6am to 9am

Watering trees, shrubs and flowers is permitted on any day from 4am to 9am if using a sprinkler, and on any day at any time if using a hand-held hose with automatic shut-off device, a soaker hose, water container, or drip irrigation.

Edible plants are exempt from regulations

If you water outside of allowed times, you could be fined $250.

Pay your water notice

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  set by Metro Vancouver.

Review the full list of restrictions for Stages 1 to 4

Notice questions, errors, and disputes

Learn what to do if you have a question about your water notice or think you received a notice in error.

Contact information, partner agencies, and website policies

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