Cartoon image of a person relaxing on a chair on a dry lawn compared to another image of someone filling up a water glass.

Lawn watering restrictions go into effect May 1

Let your lawn go gold this summer

April 30 2021 –

Starting Saturday, May 1, the annual Stage 1 lawn watering restrictions set by Metro Vancouver  will be in effect.

Stage 1 water restrictions allow lawn watering two days per week.

Seasonal watering restrictions are key to ensuring everyone has access to drinking water during the dry summer months. Climate change and a growing population have put pressure on regional water supplies. Water restrictions help ensure there is enough treated drinking water for essential tasks like cooking, cleaning and drinking — while still allowing for healthy landscapes.

Water restrictions remain an important requirement this season. As people do their part to reduce transmission of COVID-19 by staying home, many will spend more time tending lawns and gardens than other years. It’s important everyone remains mindful of watering restrictions, which are in effect until October 15. Watering outside of permitted times is a by-law offence and could result in a $250 fine.

Permitted watering time

Even with watering restrictions, Vancouver’s water use doubles in the summer due to lawn and garden watering. Lawns in Vancouver generally need only one inch of water for one hour each week, including rainfall, to stay healthy and green. Residents can check their permitted watering through the VanConnect app or online.

Lawn watering days for residential addresses

  • Even-numbered addresses: 4am to 9am on Wednesdays and Saturday
  • Odd-numbered addresses: 4am to 9am on Thursdays and Sundays

Lawn watering days for non-residential addresses

  • Even-numbered addresses: 1am to 6am on Mondays; 4am to 9am on Fridays
  • Odd-numbered addresses: 1am to 6am on Tuesdays; 4am to 9am on Fridays

Learn more about the City of Vancouver’s water conservation targets and how everyone can reduce their water consumption.​​​​​​​