Stage 2 water restrictions coming to Comox Valley

Residents across the Comox Valley will soon have to watch their water use a little more closely.

Stage 2 water restrictions take effect June 4 for Black Creek–Oyster Bay, Comox Valley and Royston water systems, as officials respond to low stream flows and a below-average snowpack feeding the region’s watershed.

The Comox Valley Regional District says the early move is intended to ease pressure on local water supplies heading into the dry summer months.

“As temperatures rise and rainfall becomes increasingly scarce, it’s more important than ever for everyone to conserve water,” said Kris La Rose, general manager of engineering services, in a news release.

“By reducing our water use earlier in the year, we can protect our natural resources and hopefully prevent further restrictions over the coming months.”

The restrictions apply to the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, and electoral areas A, B and C.

Under Stage 2, lawn and garden watering is limited to two short daily windows: 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Watering days depend on address numbers. Even-numbered homes may water Tuesdays and Saturdays, while odd-numbered addresses are permitted Wednesdays and Sundays.

Bylaw officers will be enforcing the restrictions, with warnings and fines starting at $100 for non-compliance.