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Metro Vancouver Stage 3 Water Restrictions: What Residents Need to Know

June 2, 2026

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Metro Vancouver Stage 3 Water Restrictions: What Residents Need to Know

As of June 8, 2026, Metro Vancouver is implementing Stage 3 water restrictions in response to dry conditions, low snowpack, and regional water supply concerns. These elevated restrictions mean tighter rules for all residents and strata communities across the region.

What is Prohibited

Under Stage 3 restrictions, strict prohibitions are in place to conserve the water supply. The following activities are completely banned:

Lawns: All lawn watering is completely banned.
Sprinklers & Soaker Hoses: Prohibited for all landscaping.
Washing Vehicles/Boats: Washing cars or boats at home is banned, except for spot-cleaning windows, lights, mirrors, and licence plates for safety.
Decorative Water Features: Filling or topping up decorative features like fountains is prohibited.
Power Washing: Using personal pressure washers or hoses to clean driveways, sidewalks, or building exteriors is not allowed.

Permitted Water Use

While restrictions are strict, some specific uses are permitted to maintain essential plant health and public amenities under strict guidelines:

Trees, Shrubs, & Flowers: Can be watered by hand using a container, drip irrigation, or a hose with a spring-loaded shut-off nozzle, any day, any time.
Pools & Hot Tubs: Filling or topping up commercial pools and hot tubs with operating permits is allowed.

What You Should Do

Water conservation during Stage 3 is a mandatory, shared responsibility. Residents are reminded to comply with any applicable municipal bylaws or building rules respecting water use. Please ensure that your household adjusts its routines immediately to support the region's conservation efforts and avoid any potential penalties associated with local bylaws.