Caution | Outdoor water restrictions in effect

Stage 3 outdoor water restrictions are in effect. Learn more about how City services are impacted and what you can do during this stage.

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Stage 3 Outdoor water restrictions in effect

Updated July 6, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.

While the Bearspaw south feeder main has been repaired, we are gradually lifting restrictions to make sure water supply can meet demand.

Stage 3 outdoor water restrictions are in place for all residences and businesses along with City of Calgary operations. Violations may lead to fines starting at $1,500.

Our regional customers including the City of Airdrie, the City of Chestermere, Tsuut'ina Nation and the Town of Strathmore also have water restrictions in place and are asking residents and businesses to reduce their water use.

 

Stage 3 Water restrictions

Do Allowed any time during water restrictions

  • Water plants with a watering can using water from your tap.
  • Capture rainwater or greywater inside your home to water plants and gardens.
  • Use water for construction purposes.
  • Water new sod (planted within 21 days) or lawn seed (planted within 45 days) with a sprinkler or hose

Don't

  • Use a sprinkler or a hose (except for new sod or lawn seed).
  • Fill residential outdoor pools or hot tubs.
  • Wash outdoor surfaces, including:
    • Windows
    • Exterior building surfaces
    • Sidewalks, driveways, or walkways
  • Fill fountains or decorative water features.

Complaints related to watering restrictions

You can submit Water Restrictions and Misuse (Bylaw) requests

  • Outdoor watering during the water restriction
  • Overwatering 
  • Water running onto the sreet/sidewalk
  • Broken equipment leaking water
Submit a complaint

For businesses

The following outdoor water use is allowed in Stage 3 for health and safety reasons or for core business needs:

  • Watering plants, shrubs and trees for commercial sale.
  • Washing outdoor surfaces for childcare facilities, restaurants, kennel and animal care facilities.
  • Washing of vehicles to follow health and safety regulations.
  • Businesses that have a licence to operate exterior window washing services and car washes.
  • Non-residential outdoor pools, wading pools and spray parks (specific exemption granted).
  • While not a bylaw exemption, all commercial, industrial and institutional customers may apply to become a Certified Water Managed Site which allows some leniency with restrictions.

 

Frequently asked questions

Read our frequently asked questions about the critical water main break. 

Read more
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