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Water Protection & Conservation

The City of New Westminster is committed to protecting our drinking water and using it wisely. Through a range of programs, policies, and partnerships, the City works to conserve water, protect water quality, and manage how wastewater and rainwater move through our community. This work supports the City’s broader climate action efforts, including building resilience to a changing climate.

Conserving water is one of the most effective and affordable ways to manage our water supply. It helps reduce demand on existing systems and delays the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. While our region receives significant rainfall each year, treated drinking water is still a valuable resource - especially during the summer months when demand is highest.

At the same time, protecting water quality is essential. Rainwater and wastewater can carry pollutants into local waterways if not properly managed. The City uses a combination of infrastructure, planning, and environmental protections to help keep our rivers and ecosystems healthy.

Looking ahead, climate change is expected to bring longer, drier summers and reduced winter snowpack, which can limit water availability during peak summer months, along with more intense rainfall that can impact drainage systems. Taking action now helps ensure a reliable and healthy water system for the future.

Metro Vancouver leads regional water conservation strategies, including setting targets and delivering education campaigns. The City supports this work through local initiatives, such as the Water Shortage Response Bylaw, and continues to build on these efforts to protect our water for years to come.

  • Lawn Watering Regulations & Permits

    Stage 1 Watering Restrictions in effect September 1 to October 15

    Metro Vancouver announced a return to Stage 1 Watering restrictions on September 1, 2026.

    Lawn and garden watering accounts for the largest portion of residential water use in the summer – water demand can increase by 50%, largely due to lawn watering. Reducing water use during peak periods helps to ensure a sufficient water supply in the summer and can defer the need for system upgrades to the water supply infrastructure. In order to conserve our region's water supply, New Westminster supports Metro Vancouver’s Drinking Water Conservation Plan by enforcing the region’s Lawn Watering Regulations through the City’s Water Shortage Response Bylaw. 

    Stage 1 of the Water Shortage Response Bylaw, regardless of weather conditions, applies from May 1 to October 15.

    The intent is for watering to take place in the early morning hours, when demand is low and evaporation is minimal. The policy applies to both residential and non-residential areas. The permitted watering hours are summarized below.

    Residential

    Even-numbered addresses on Saturdays

    Odd-numbered addresses on Sundays

    • Automatic watering: 5:00 am to 7:00 am
    • Manual watering: 6:00 am to 9:00 am
       

    Watering trees, shrubs and flowers is permitted any day from 5:00 am to 9:00 am if using a sprinkler, or any time if hand watering or using drip irrigation. All hoses must have an automatic shut-off device.

    Edible plants are exempt from regulations.

    Non-residential

    Even-numbered addresses: Mondays only

    Odd-numbered addresses: Tuesdays only

    • Automatic watering: 4:00 to 6:00 am
    • Manual watering: 6:00 am to 9:00 am
       

    Watering trees, shrubs and flowers is permitted any day from 4:00 am to 9:00 am if using a sprinkler, or any time if hand watering or using drip irrigation. All hoses must have an automatic shut-off device.

    Edible plants are exempt from regulations

    Automatic watering means applying water using an automated water delivery system that requires only minimal human intervention or supervision and typically employs mechanical, electronic, or other components and devices, including but not limited to timers, sensors, computers, or mechanical appliances.

    Manual watering means applying water using a device or tool that is manually held or operated by a human being, without automatic watering.

    Check out the Lawn Watering: Automatic vs. Manual Methods guide for examples.

    Please note:

    1. Water Exemption Permits: Between May 1 and Oct 15, newly turfed or seeded lawns and those being treated with nematodes may be irrigated more frequently, provided a Lawn Watering Permit is obtained. Permits can be obtained through Engineering Services at City Hall, Queensborough Community Centre or by applying online. Proof of purchase may be required to obtain a permit. While exemption permits allow for additional watering days, watering is restricted to the hours of 4am to 9am. Permits are not issued or renewed in Stages 2, 3 and 4.
    1. Car washing using a hose equipped with a spring loaded shut-off device is permitted in Stage 1.
    1. Residents may water their lawn with water from rain barrels outside of permitted watering hours.

    Your cooperation will help save water and reduce the risk of more severe restrictions. Remember, your lawn only needs about 1-inch of water (about 1 hour of watering) per week to stay healthy.

    If you require more information regarding the lawn watering program, please contact Engineering Services at 604-527-4592. Thank you for your cooperation.

    Fines and Reporting Violations

    Lawn watering outside of the allowed days and times is subject to a fine based on the current stage of lawn watering restrictions:

    • Stage 1: $100
    • Stage 2: $200
    • Stage 3: $500
    • Stage 4: $1,000

    To report lawn watering violations, please contact Parking at 604-519-2010 or parking@newwestcity.ca. When reporting, please provide the following information:

    • Address
    • Date(s) and time(s) of the observed violation
    • Location of watering (e.g. front lawn)
       

    Additional Resources

  • Conserve Our Drinking Water

    All water is drinking water, so make every drop count!

    Metro Vancouver’s per capita water use has steadily declined for over a decade, but continued population growth – an estimated 50,000 people every year – is expected to increase overall water demand. On average, Metro Vancouver residents use over 270 liters per person per day for washing dishes and clothes, showering, flushing toilets, watering lawns, and other outside activities.

    Help us protect our water supply during the warmer months by following these conservation tips:

    Let your lawn turn golden brown: One hour of watering per week is enough for your grass to go dormant. While it might look dead, it will turn green again when the wet weather returns.

    Metro Vancouver sets watering restrictions each year indicated if and when lawns can be watered. Note that in Stage 2 and up, lawn watering is not permitted unless using water from a rain barrel.

    Let your grass grow: Keep 5-6 cm of grass length to protect the roots and help the soil retain moisture.

    Plant drought-tolerant native plants: These can survive with very little watering once established.

    Purchase a rain barrel: This unchlorinated and oxygen-rich water can be collected during the wetter months and used to water your lawn and garden when watering restrictions are in effect.

    Use a hose timer: Set a timer on your manual watering system so you don’t have to remember to turn it off.

    Check your sprinklers for leaks: Ensure water isn’t being wasted on sidewalks, driveways, and other areas that don’t need it.

     

    Water Conservation Tools and Resources

  • Rain Barrel Program

    Spring 2026: Rain barrels are back in stock! Get yours before summer.

    Rain barrels are an affordable and sustainable way to water your garden, providing unchlorinated, oxygen-rich water that is healthier for plants. They collect rainwater from the roof to reuse on gardens, lawns, and hanging baskets, and are especially helpful during lawn watering restrictions from May 1 to October 15.

    How to purchase a Rain Barrel:

    • Cost is $76 + GST.
    • Proof of New Westminster residency is required.
    • Please email  to check availability.

    Once your payment is complete, pick up will be available in the parking lot at the Public Works Yard, located at 901 First St, between 8:00 am and 12:00 pm on the following dates:

    • April 25
    • May 9 & 23
    • June 6 & 20
    • September 19
    • October 3 & 17

    Proof of purchase is required for pick up.

    Rain Barrel Features:

    • 208 Liters (55 gallon) capacity
    • 34 inches high by 24 inches wide
    • Easily accommodates existing downspouts
    • Made of 50% recycled materials
    • Overflow capability, can be linked to another rain barrel
    • Square shape and neutral color blends into any gardenscape
    • Stainless steel screen keeps out bugs and leaf debris

    For general inquires about the rain barrel program, please e-mail or call Engineering and Public Works at 604-527-4592.

    Information and Resources


  • Water Protection Projects and Polices

    Protecting water isn’t just about how much we use - it’s also about keeping it clean and healthy for people, wildlife, and the environment.

    In New Westminster, this means managing how rainwater flows through the city, reducing pollution, and protecting natural areas along rivers and waterways. Here are some of the ways this work happens:

    Protecting Rivers and Natural Areas

    Areas along rivers, streams, and ditches (called riparian areas) play an important role in keeping water clean and supporting fish and wildlife.

    A Riparian Assessment Area includes land within 30 metres of a stream boudary (the high water mark or floodplain). Under provincial regulations and the City's bylaws, a stream includes rivers, creeks, and ditches.

    Properties within this area require environmental review before development. A qualified environmental professional will assess the site and determine appropriate setbacks to protect water quality, reduce erosion, and support fish and wildlife habitat.

    Erosion and Sediment Control: Managing Soil Disturbance and Runoff

    Construction and land development can cause dirt, debris, and pollutants to wash into storm drains and waterways - especially during rain.

    To prevent this:

    • Property owners, developers, and builders must plan ahead to control runoff and keep sediment on-site
    • Erosion and sediment control measures (like barriers, coverings, and drainage controls) are required
    • Larger construction projects must have detailed plans and trained supervisors in place

    These steps help keep nearby rivers and streams cleaner during construction.

    Resources:

     

    Reducing Sewer Overflows

    Some older parts of the city still use combined sewer systems, where rainwater and wastewater share the same pipes.

    During heavy rain, these systems can overflow, and diluted wastewater may enter local waterways.

    To reduce this:

    This work helps protect the Fraser River and Brunette River, especially during heavy rainfall.

    Managing Rainwater (Stormwater)

    Rainwater that falls on roofs, roads, and sidewalks can pick up pollutants before entering storm drains and local waterways.

    The City’s Integrated Stormwater Management Plan focuses on:

    • Slowing down and filtering rainwater where it falls
    • Reducing flooding and erosion
    • Improving water quality before it reaches rivers

    This includes using green infrastructure, such as:

    • Rain gardens
    • Permeable surfaces that absorb water
    • Landscaped areas that naturally filter runoff

    These approaches mimic how water moves in nature and help keep our waterways healthier.