Water Conservation
Every drop counts!
In summer months, water use in Greater Victoria increases by 44%, mostly due to non-essential outdoor uses like lawn and garden watering. The fall and winter rains replenish the Sooke Lake Reservoir and must last the entire year for drinking water, watershed fire suppression, droughts and support for vital habitats for many endangered species.
Outside Greater Victoria, small water systems are vulnerable to drought conditions. All residents and visitors are encouraged to follow our tips for using water wisely to help reduce the impact of dry, hot summers on community water supplies.
Water Restrictions
Water conservation bylaws are in effect May 1 – September 30 each year for the following systems:
Regional Water Supply System (Greater Victoria)
The CRD Water Conservation Bylaw applies to any customers of the Regional Water Supply System receiving drinking water from the Sooke Lake Reservoir in the Greater Victoria area including residential, commercial, institutional and municipal properties.
Electoral Area Local Water Systems
The Electoral Areas Water Conservation Bylaw applies to any customers of CRD water systems operated in the electoral areas (Juan de Fuca, Salt Spring Island, Southern Gulf Islands).
The CRD publishes notices about each water conservation stage on individual water system web pages and uses sandwich board signs in your community to help you stay informed.