Maple Ridge, B.C., April 27, 2026 – Stage 2 Water Restrictions are now in effect across the Metro Vancouver region from May 1 to October 15. These restrictions mean that lawn watering on residential and non-residential properties is prohibited with exceptions for municipal operations.
With forecasts calling for hot, dry summer and snowpack levels significantly below normal, conserving water is essential to ensure drinking water is available for essential uses such as drinking, cooking, and cleaning. During summer months, water use can increase by 50% or more primarily due to outdoor watering.
What Stage 2 Restrictions Mean
Lawn Watering
- Lawn watering by sprinkler or hand is NOT allowed at any time on residential and commercial properties
- Existing exemption permits remain valid until expiry
- No new exemption permits will be issued
Gardens, Trees, and Shrubs
- Residential properties:
- Sprinklers: 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (any day)
- Hand watering, drip irrigation, and soaker hoses: anytime
- Vegetable gardens: No restrictions
- Non-residential properties:
- Sprinklers: 4:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (any day)
- Hand watering, drip irrigation, and soaker hoses: anytime
- Vegetable gardens: No restrictions
Water Features, Pools, and Cleaning
- Filling or topping up decorative water features is not allowed
- Car and boat washing is allowed only with a hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle
- Washing driveways, sidewalks, and other hard surfaces is only allowed for health and safety reasons; preparing for painting or similar treatment; or aesthetic cleaning by a commercial cleaning operation
Please contact Operations@MapleRidge.ca for inquiries about the water regulations.
Exceptions for Municipal and Regional Operations
City staff can water sports fields and active park spaces to maintain public infrastructure and safe playing conditions.
Enforcement
Bylaw staff will actively monitor compliance and provide education throughout the season. During stage 2, fines for non-compliance start at $450 per offence under the City of Maple Ridge Drinking Water Conservation Plan Bylaw. Report watering violations to MapleRidge.ca/Report, contact 604-467-7305 or email Bylaws@MapleRidge.ca.
Most of Metro Vancouver’s rainfall occurs between November and April. Water restrictions help manage peak demand, reduce strain on infrastructure and protect water supply during drought conditions and wildfire season. Metro Vancouver continues to monitor conditions and further restrictions may be implemented. For further information view Metro Vancouver’s Drinking Water Conservation Plan - Summary.
Be Waterwise – Tips to Conserve Water
- Let your lawn ‘go gold’ during summer months
- Leave grass clippings on your lawn to retain moisture
- Use mulch in gardens to reduce evaporation
Visit MapleRidge.ca/WaterWise for more tips and information.
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Media contact:
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319 C 778 955 4249
E Media@MapleRidge.ca