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Food Garden Watering, Some Pool Refilling Allowed

Vernon restrictions modified to preserve water, meet public need

Jun 22, 2026 | 1:00 PM

Greater Vernon Water’s water restrictions have been modified to best maintain the supply while meeting the needs of the citizens.

Stage 3 Water Restrictions were issued June 4 with the goal of reducing the community water use by 50 per cent in order to ensure a sufficient supply of water in the reservoirs to last through the summer.

After reviewing the conditions and receiving public feedback, the regulations around the restrictions were adjusted to better align with community needs.

Under Stage 3, people can now use micro-jet, drip irrigation or hand watering daily for their food gardens and potted plants. The Regional District of North Okanagan still asked that people not overwater these plants.

Also, the RDNO will permit people to refill their private pools with up to one per cent of the pool’s total volume, or around two centimetres, every week to make up for water lost to evaporation. The RDNO noted people could reduce the amount lost to evaporation by lowing their pool temperature and/or using a pool cover.

All other Stage 3 Water Restrictions remained unchanged. Those include a ban on watering laws; filling pools, hot tubs, ponds and water features; washing driveways or outdoor surfaces for aesthetic purposes; cleaning vehicles for non-safety-related purposes. Also, people had limited watering schedules for ornamental and non-food gardens, and were asked to reduce their water use wherever possible. 

Additionally, the RDNO issued Stage 2 Water Restrictions for properties fed by the Delcliffe and Outback Water Utilities.

Under Stage 2 people can water their lawns and gardens with sprinklers up to twice a week between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Hand watering is permitted up to three days a week using a watering can or hose with a spring-loaded nozzle between 7 p.m. and 10 a.m.

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