Lawn Watering
Stage 1 water use restrictions automatically take effect between May 1 and October 15 each year. Water use restrictions are implemented throughout the Metro Vancouver region to manage discretionary use of potable drinking water during periods of high demand, water shortage, or emergencies.
Read the following Metro Vancouver resources to learn more:
The restrictions below are in effect during Stage 1 for residential and non-residential addresses.
- Residential lawn watering allowed:
- Even-numbered addresses on Saturdays, odd-numbered addresses on Sundays
- Automatic watering: 5 to 7 a.m.
- Manual watering: 6 to 9 a.m.
- Even-numbered addresses on Saturdays, odd-numbered addresses on Sundays
- Non-Residential lawn watering allowed:
- Even-numbered addresses on Mondays, odd-numbered addresses on Tuesdays
- Automatic watering: 4 to 6 a.m.
- Manual watering: 6 to 9 a.m.
- Even-numbered addresses on Mondays, odd-numbered addresses on Tuesdays
- Trees, shrubs, and flowers can be watered from 5 to 9 a.m. for residential lawns, and from 4 to 9 a.m. for non-residential lawns when using a sprinkler, or at any time during the day with hand watering or drip irrigation. All hoses must have an automatic shut-off device.
- Edible plants are exempt from regulations.
The City encourages you to conserve water by reducing outdoor water consumption. The City's Water Use Restriction Bylaw No. 7784 regulates watering and is enforced by the City of Richmond.
Managing European Chafer Beetles
Water Restriction Exemption Permits will be issued for lawns being treated for European Chafer Beetles. To apply for a permit, please complete the application form and submit it to savewater@richmond.ca.
New Lawns
Water Restriction Exemption Permits will be issued for watering new lawns. To apply for a permit, please complete the application form and submit it to savewater@richmond.ca.
Rain Barrels
Rain barrels can be used to collect and store rain water for outdoor use such as watering your garden and lawn. Using rainwater reduces the amount of tap water you use, conserving water and saving money on your utility bill. Rain barrels are available at the City of Richmond Recycle Depot. Visit our rain barrel page for more information.
Did you know?
One hour of lawn watering uses as much water as 25 toilet flushes, five loads of laundry and five dishwasher loads combined.
What else can you do?
Visit the City's water conservation programs and water saving tips page to learn more.