Metro Vancouver Stage 3 Water Restrictions Begin June 8

Metro Vancouver will activate Stage 3 water restrictions on June 8 to protect drinking water supplies during a severe drought. Low snowpack at just 15% of historical averages and ongoing Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel construction have forced the region to cut water use. Residents have one week to prepare for the new rules that ban lawn watering and limit vehicle washing.

Why Restrictions Are Happening Now

Metro Vancouver uses 1.2 billion litres of water daily, rising to 1.5 billion litres during summer months. Warm weather can push water use up 50% from baseline. Snowpack sits well below normal at less than 15% of historical averages, the lowest heading into summer since the 2015 drought year. The Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel project also reduces available capacity during construction.

What Residents Cannot Do

Lawn watering is completely banned. Residents cannot fill or top up pools, hot tubs, or decorative water features like fountains. Home car and boat washing is limited to spot cleaning windows, lights, mirrors, and licence plates for safety only. Personal pressure washers and garden hoses for cleaning driveways and sidewalks are prohibited. All existing water exemption permits become void June 8, and no new permits will be issued.

What Residents Can Still Do

Trees, shrubs, and inedible flowers may be watered by hand using a water container, drip irrigation, or a hose with a spring-loaded nozzle. Vegetable gardens can be watered anytime. Commercial car washes that use water-efficient systems remain open. Public pools, spray parks, and recirculating water features continue operating. Hired commercial cleaners may work for safety reasons or to prepare surfaces for painting or sealing.

When Restrictions May End

Metro Vancouver anticipates returning to Stage 2 restrictions at the end of July if conditions improve. The region will monitor weather, reservoir levels, regional water demand, and progress on the Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel project. Residents will be notified of any changes to the restriction schedule.

Final Thoughts

Stage 3 restrictions protect essential drinking water, firefighting, and emergency services during a critical shortage. Metro Vancouver expects to ease restrictions by end of July if weather and reservoir levels improve. Residents should prepare now for the June 8 enforcement date.

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