Watering restrictions are at stage 2 – no lawn watering
As of May 1, 2026, watering restrictions are at stage 2 across our region. This means all private lawn watering is prohibited. See below for rules on when trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens can be watered. We’re starting at stage 2 to conserve drinking water through what’s expected to be a hot and dry summer. Thank you for doing your part to keep our region safe, healthy and prepared.
Learn about watering restrictions and how they apply to you.
Regional watering restrictions are in effect from May 1 to October 15. These restrictions help us use our drinking water wisely and ensure we have a regular supply throughout the year.
You can find the full details of water use regulations for stages 1 to 4 in Metro Vancouver's Drinking Water Conservation Plan, which helps manage:
- drinking water supply during summer when rainfall is low and demand is high
- water shortages during unforeseen emergencies (e.g. earthquake, service disruptions)
- limited storage capacity of reservoirs
- increased demand due to continued population and industrial growth
Stage 2
During stage 2 restrictions, lawn watering is prohibited.
Watering trees, shrubs and flowers is permitted any day from 5 to 9 am for residentials properties or from 4 to 9 am for non-residential properties if using an automatic or manual sprinkler, or any time if hand watering or using drop irrigation. Hoses must have an automatic shut-off nozzle.
Vegetable gardens have be watered any time.
If there's a violation during this phase, it may result in a $250 fine.
Read Metro Vancouver's Drinking Water Conservation Plan to learn more.
Fines and reporting violations
Watering outside the allowed days and times will result in the following penalties:
- Stage 1: $150
- Stage 2: $250
- Stage 3: $350
- Stage 4: $500
To report lawn watering violations, fill out the online form linked below or call the Water Conservation Officers at 604-293-6528.
Report lawn watering violations
Lawn watering exemption permits
Exemption permits are not issued when stage 2, 3 or 4 restrictions are in effect.