Metro Vancouver moving back to Stage 2 water restrictions

Metro Vancouver is reinstating Stage 2 water restrictions, effective July 16, signaling a shift in water management strategies for the region. This decision comes as the First Narrows Crossing has resumed its service, a key factor enabling the move back from more stringent measures.

Under the Stage 2 regulations, the watering of lawns remains prohibited. However, residents are permitted to manually water trees, shrubs, inedible flowers, and plants at any time using a hand-held hose with a shut-off device, soaker hose, water container, or drip irrigation. Sprinkler use is restricted to the hours between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. daily.

Vegetable gardens receive more leniency, with watering allowed at any hour. The restrictions also address decorative water features, prohibiting the filling or topping up of fountains and ponds. Homeowners can wash cars and boats using a hand-held hose with a shut-off device, while commercial car washes are permitted to operate. The use of personal pressure washers and garden hoses for essential health or safety reasons, such as preparing surfaces for painting, is also allowed, though aesthetic cleaning is not permitted.

Importantly, these restrictions do not affect personal or public swimming pools and hot tubs. Spray parks can also continue to operate as normal. The return to Stage 2 reflects an adjustment in water usage policies, balancing conservation needs with the resumption of critical infrastructure services.