Stage 1 Watering Schedule of the Water Conservation Bylaw for the Regional Water Supply System (Greater Victoria) is in effect May 1 through September 30, each and every year, unless more stringent water conservation measures are required.
In summer months, water use in the capital region increases by 44%, mostly due to non-essential outdoor uses like lawn and garden watering.
The fall and winter rains replenish the Sooke Lake Reservoir and must last the entire year for drinking water, protection against wildfire events and droughts and support vital habitats for many endangered species.
By following the Stage 1 Watering Schedule and using water wisely outdoors, you can help save water, money, time, as well as help the environment.
Water Conservation Bylaw
The CRD Water Conservation Bylaw applies to any customers of the Regional Water Supply System receiving drinking water from the Sooke Lake Reservoir in the Greater Victoria area including residential, commercial, institutional and municipal properties.
| Even Addresses |
Odd Addresses |
Lawn watering allowed
Wednesdays & Saturdays
4-10am and 7-10pm |
Lawn watering allowed
Thursdays & Sundays
4-10am and 7-10pm |
*For multi-unit properties, the street address applies, not the individual unit number.
Established trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens may be watered by a hand-held hose with a shut-off device or hand held container, or micro/drip irrigation system, on any day at any time.
Established trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens may be watered with a sprinkler on any day, but only during the designated watering times 4-10am and 7-10pm.
Municipalities may water lawns and boulevards on Monday and Fridays during the hours of 1-10am and 7-10pm.
What can you do to make every drop count?
- Go golden. Lawns naturally go dormant in the summer months and return with fall rains.
- Green lawns only need one inch (2.5cm) of water per week, including rainfall during the hottest, driest weeks of the year.
- Use cycle and soak watering with three short bursts of water to allow it to seep into the soil, reducing runoff and water waste.
- Garden with drought tolerant native plants.
- Water wisely. Water trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens at the root and use mulch to hold in moisture - water with a container or hose with a shut-off nozzle.
- Clean smart. Avoid washing vehicles or boats unnecessarily, unless for safety reasons (windows and headlights).
- Sweep outdoor surfaces such as driveways or decks with a broom instead of using a hose or power washing.