The Comox Valley Regional District has revised its water conservation bylaw, adding a new Stage 5 designation.
The CVRD says the changes move what was previously the most restrictive Stage 4 designation to Stage 5.
General Manager of Engineering Services Kris La Rose says the updated bylaw is a proactive step to protect the region’s water supply.
“Given the unprecedented move to Stage 3 water restrictions earlier this year, we were faced with the possibility of an extended implementation of Stage 4 water restrictions,” said La Rose. “The severity of the previous bylaw’s Stage 4 restrictions was simply not feasible for businesses and food crops for prolonged amounts of time.”
Under the revised bylaw, Stage 3 restrictions have updated language for clarity and exterior commercial washing.
Stage 4 prohibits lawn watering of any kind. Outdoor watering of gardens, including vegetable gardens, is conditionally allowed to keep plants alive, with exceptions for certain commercial and farming operations.
Stage 5 prohibits all outdoor watering and cleaning. Water use is limited to essential purposes such as drinking, cooking and sanitation.
“The new Stage 4 water restrictions take a careful and measured approach to balancing strict water conservation efforts with basic community needs,” said La Rose. “While it is possible that Stage 4 restrictions may not be activated this year, the updated bylaw ensures that the region is well-prepared should severe drought conditions arise in the future.”
The CVRD is urging residents and businesses to familiarize themselves with the updated bylaw.
