Stage 2 watering restrictions
Tim Petruk – Aug 7, 2026 / 10:50 am | Story: 627348
Photo: Wikimedia, Creative Commons
Nelson is moving into stage two water restrictions beginning today.
Although there has been a “meaningful” reduction in water use by Nelsonites, the continued drought has necessitated the municipal government in instituting stage two watering restrictions.
While stage one water restrictions have successfully reduced water use, said city utilities operations manager Scott Eagleson, ongoing high temperatures and naturally declining creek flows mean additional conservation measures are now necessary.
“Moving to stage two helps reduce demand on the city’s water system and lowers the risk of requiring more restrictive measures later this summer,” he said. “Every litre we save today helps protect our drinking water supply and ensures water is available for essential needs, including firefighting.”
Starting today, the restrictions apply throughout the municipality to “help protect Nelson’s drinking water supply” as the drought continues, meaning lawns can only be watered between 4–9 a.m. and 7–10 p.m. — even-numbered addresses on Wednesday only, while odd-numbered addresses only on Thursday.
Gardens, trees and shrubs may be watered during permitted hours on any day using a handheld hose with a shut-off nozzle, sprinkler or drip irrigation. Watering new sod or seeded lawns is not permitted without a permit from public works. Washing sidewalks, driveways and exterior building surfaces is also prohibited.
The city is also tightening its water belt as it is reducing irrigation on municipal properties to conserve water.
“Residents may notice drier turf in parks and on sports fields,” said Eagleson.
Lakeside Park will continue to be irrigated using untreated water from Kootenay Lake, and the Nelson Cemetery will continue to use water supplied by its own well.
