Notices + AlertsWater & Wastewater

Watering Restrictions

By August 13, 2026No Comments
LEVEL FOUR

WATERING RESTRICTIONS

UPDATED AUGUST 2026
Level 4 watering restrictions are now in effect due to increased drought conditions and water scarcity.
The updated restrictions include the following:
  • Lawn watering is limited to once per week: Fridays for even-numbered addresses and Tuesdays for odd-numbered addresses.
  • Garden sprinkling is limited to twice per week.
  • Hand watering and drip irrigation for gardens only are permitted at any time.
  • Outdoor washing and bulk filling, including pools and spas, are not permitted at this time.
Water restrictions may change with limited or no notice. Thank you for doing your part to use water wisely and help protect our community’s water supply.

VIEW OUTDOOR WATER CONSERVATION POLICY

Water Situation in Merritt

WATER LICENCE: The City of Merritt has enough room in its provincial water licence to accommodate future growth, currently only utilizing about 75% of what the City is allowed to consume.

ABUNDANT WATER: The City has abundant water in its shallow and deep aquifers. The current well system is sufficient to meet the municipality’s needs year‑round. Most water is drawn from shallow aquifers, while the deep Kengard Well is currently used at only about 2 % of its capacity. The City is working towards developing a treatment facility on this deep well to reduce manganese levels, a naturally occurring mineral that is essential for human health, but only in small amounts. The City’s current and planned water supply is sufficient to accommodate future growth and development.

WATER DEMAND: During the hot, dry summer months, the City of Merritt, like the rest of the province, experiences increased water demand and lower supply. The City has two goals for managing water demand: first, to balance lawn watering demand so treated water can be replenished in reservoirs without creating sudden peaks in system use, and second, to reduce overall water use to lessen stress on the Coldwater River — a losing‑reach tributary where water drains into the aquifers, potentially stressing aquatic ecosystems. Balancing these competing needs requires promoting efficient water use and implementing seasonal watering restrictions to moderate peak demand.

WATER CONSERVATION: The City of Merritt promotes water conservation year-round and encourages residents to consider natural landscaping with drought-tolerant plants that are more appropriate to our semi-arid desert climate.

WATER RESTRICTIONS: Watering restrictions are a preventive water conservation measure and are not tied to real‑time water capacity. Many communities across British Columbia implement seasonal or baseline watering rules to help manage peak summer demand, protect system pressure and reliability, and support long‑term sustainability, even when supplies are adequate. Residents are encouraged to use water efficiently year‑round, and the City will continue to promote watering restrictions consistent with regional practices and neighbouring jurisdictions, regardless of future additions to the water supply.

WATER METERS: Water meters are not related to water supply or watering restrictions.  Water meters simply identify where water is being used and by how much. The installation of water meters in every household is now law. Information provided by the new water meters will help identify leaks in the system, discourage abuse, and encourage water conservation. Learn more about Water Meters.

Water Conservation

All BC Municipalities must follow guidelines set by the Province of BC, as per the Water Sustainabilities Act, and promote water conservation.  While municipal watering restrictions are a proven water conservation measure, residents are encouraged to seek additional water conservation methods, like choosing drought-tolerant and perennial plants.

Try some of the following water conservation measures:

  • Collect rainwater. Consider purchasing a rain barrel.
  • Use an auto shut-off valve when washing outdoors and try to direct run-off onto permeable surfaces like lawns or gravel.
  • Let lawns go brown and dormant in the summer. If you wish to keep your lawn green, you only need to water for about 30 minutes twice a week, which aligns with Level 3 watering restrictions.
  • Consider replacing lawns and ornamental gardens with drought-tolerant plants. Learn about Xeriscaping.
  • Try to avoid new plantings in the heat of the summer.  Instead plant in the spring or fall only.
  • Take shorter showers and avoid baths.
  • Avoid letting the water run when brushing your teeth or washing dishes.
  • Save grey water for watering plants.
XERISCAPING

Enforcement

The City of Merritt prefers voluntary compliance.  Those who contravene the Bylaw will be sent a warning letter explaining the infraction.  The focus will be on education and not enforcement. Those who refuse to comply may be subject to having their water service suspended.

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