Water Restrictions

Whether it’s from a tap or a hose, it’s all drinking water – let’s use the region’s supply wisely. Annual water restrictions are in effect May 1 through October 15 in municipalities throughout Metro Vancouver, including Port Moody. Restrictions generally start at Stage 1 and, if necessary, move through additional stages up to Stage 4. Using less water at home, both outside and indoors, can help us avoid a move to a higher stage with more restrictions.

Did you know that using hoses and sprinklers for lawn care diverts water from our regional drinking water supply? This is because the water from our kitchen taps and backyard hoses comes from the same source. During dry periods and warmer months, our regional water use can increase by more than 50 per cent, largely due to lawn and garden watering, and other outdoor uses. Restrictions help manage demand for drinking water, during the drier months and periods of water shortages, and in emergencies.

The region’s drinking water is managed by Metro Vancouver under its Drinking Water Conservation Plan, which includes the full list of water restrictions for stages 1 through 4. You can also review details in the Summary of water restriction stages 1–4 (PDF). 

The City of Port Moody enforces restrictions through our Water Conservation Plan Bylaw No. 3346. Remember to follow current restrictions to conserve drinking water and avoid fines.

Learn more about the BC government's general water conservation tips. Residents can also find practical water‑saving tips and information at Metro Vancouver’s welovewater.ca, along with other provincial resources.

View drought levels in your area and throughout the province on the BC government's Drought Portal. New lawns and lawns with nematode applications for European Chafer Beetle are eligible for a temporary exemption from watering restrictions. Apply for a Lawn Sprinkler Permit.