All Regional District of Nanaimo water service areas will move to Stage 4 water restrictions as of July 24.
Lawn watering is not permitted, nor is washing driveways or buildings.
The RDN said low flows in rivers and streams, along with below-average groundwater levels, prompted a proactive tightening of restrictions.
“The warmer and drier-than-seasonal conditions forecasted by Environment and Climate Change Canada will likely further impact water levels throughout the rest of the summer,” reads a news release from the RDN. “Stage four conservation helps ensure the community’s essential water needs for drinking water, hygiene and fire protection are met, water flows for fish and aquatic habitats are maintained and targeted water use reduction is achieved.”
Residents can still water flowers, shrubs and ornamental trees by hand or with a hose equipped with a shutoff device between 7 and 10 a.m. and 7 and 10 p.m.
“Vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all watering restrictions, even in stage four. Drip irrigation is permitted between 7 a.m. and 10 am or 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.,” the RDN said. “Commercial enterprises that require water use for normal business activities are exempt. Private wells are not subject to these watering restrictions, but conservation is encouraged as water is a shared resource.”
The City of Nanaimo will remain under Stage 3 water restrictions. For precise restrictions from individual water providers, residents can visit the RDN’s website.
