West Kelowna moves to Stage 3 water restrictions amid drought conditions

West Kelowna has moved to Stage 3 outdoor watering regulations as drought, heat and high water demand continue to put pressure on local reservoirs.

The restrictions limit residential irrigation to one day per week in an effort to conserve water supplies for essential indoor use, firefighting and other critical needs.

Under Stage 3 regulations, residents with even-numbered addresses can water lawns on Saturdays, while those with odd-numbered addresses can water on Sundays. Automatic sprinkler systems are only allowed between midnight and 6 a.m. on the designated day.

Manual sprinklers connected to taps can operate between midnight and 11 a.m. or between 6 p.m. and midnight on watering days. Sprinkling is prohibited between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The City said water demand has increased significantly, with more than 90 million litres flowing daily through the Rose Valley and Powers Creek Water Treatment Plants.

“With a low snowpack this winter, combined with little rain and high temperatures, we need to reduce demand for outdoor water use now so that our future water supplies remain sustainable if drought conditions persist,” said Patrick Pulak, the city’s general manager of operations.

The restrictions also prohibit filling swimming pools, hot tubs, decorative fountains and garden ponds, as well as washing vehicles, driveways, decks, patios and sidewalks. The City said early conservation efforts are the best way to protect reservoir storage and avoid more severe restrictions if conditions worsen. Stage 4 restrictions would prohibit all outdoor watering and prioritize water for firefighting and essential indoor needs.

Residents are encouraged to reduce water use by watering lawns less frequently, leaving grass longer to improve water retention and choosing plants better suited to the region’s dry climate.

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