The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to advise residents that watering restrictions come into effect on June 1, 2023. The restrictions will remain in place until September 1, 2023.
- Properties with odd-numbered addresses can water on odd-numbered calendar days between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
- Properties with even-numbered addresses can water on even-numbered calendar days between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
The restrictions apply to outdoor use of water. If there is a discrepancy regarding your property address, please contact (519) 599-3131 ext. 285 for assistance.
The restrictions are a necessary measure during the summer months to ensure that water capacity remains sufficient to meet peak demand during busy weekends or in the event of an emergency. Under the Town’s By-law, “Outdoor use of water” includes watering of existing lawns and gardens. At any time, you are permitted to water using a watering can and you may wash a vehicle if you use a hand-held hose with a shut-off valve. Remember – Water In is Water Out. If you water your lawn and are connected to the Municipal sanitary sewer system, you will pay for the related sewer charges.
Irrigation System Requirements
A reminder to homeowners, designers and installers of lawn sprinkler or irrigation systems that backflow protection must be installed and tested as required under the current edition of B64.10 Standard and referenced in the Ontario Building Code. Additionally, all water supplied to a property within the Town shall pass through the water meter supplied by the Town for use upon such property. Any unmetered water use is prohibited under By-law 2008-02. Unauthorized use of water will be subject to fines and will be strictly enforced.
Lawn Watering and Tips to Conserve Water
Water only when necessary and according to the Town’s Water Use Restriction guidelines.
A brown lawn doesn’t always indicate a dead lawn. Brown lawns can recover their green colour after rainfall or cooler weather.
- Avoid frequent watering. Watering too often can cause your turf to develop shallow roots
- Promote a healthy lawn by aerating and mowing no shorter than 7.5cm
- If most of the lawn looks green, only water the dry spots
- When reseeding or planting, consider drought-resistant grasses, which are often more resistant to insects and disease
- Use a rain barrel
- Program irrigation systems to water deeply but infrequently and within Water Use Restriction guidelines
- Leave grass clippings on your lawn after mowing
- Check for leaks in your garden hose
For more information, please contact:
Town of The Blue Mountains
General Inquiries - Water and Wastewater Services
(519) 599-3131 ext. 285
