Frequently Asked Questions

Why do we need to conserve water in Delta?

Summer is when Greater Vancouver uses the most water (up to 60% more than the rest of the year), receives the least amount of rain and has the least amount of water in storage.

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Who enforces the sprinkling regulations?

The municipality's Bylaw Enforcement Officers enforce the sprinkling regulations within Delta. Call the Delta Sprinkling Hotline at (604) 946-3290 to report violations.

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How do I report a lawn sprinkling violation?

Call the anonymous Sprinkling Hotline at (604) 946-3290. Please include the offending address, the date and time as well as a short description of the activity.

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What are the different stages of Lawn Sprinkling Regulations?

See the different stages of Lawn Sprinkling Regulations.

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Will my established lawn die without daily watering?

No. It is important to remember that established lawns naturally become dormant and turn brown during hot, dry spells, but revive quickly after a good rainfall or when the weather becomes cooler. This was demonstrated in the summer of 2002, when the Capital Regional District (Greater Victoria) was required to enact a complete lawn sprinkling ban (Stage 4) because of low drinking water supply.

If you must water, an established lawn only requires 2.5cm or 1" of water per week. Place an empty tuna can on your lawn when watering. Because the can is approximately 2.5cm deep, you can gauge how much water your lawn is receiving.

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Do the restrictions apply to soaker hoses or in-ground sprinkler systems?

Yes. During Stage 1 regulations, any sprinkling system (hose-attached sprinklers, soaker hoses, in-ground sprinklers, etc.) that is being used to irrigate a residential or commercial lawn (other than those exempted) is subject to these regulations. Watering of gardens, shrubs, trees and decorative planters, however, is not restricted during Stage 1.

To ensure minimal water waste, it is recommended that you water your gardens with a spring loaded nozzle or hand-held container. Allowing the hose to run continuously while you are watering is not permitted.

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Why are parks and sports fields watered more frequently?

Unlike typical residential lawns, most sports fields are built on a sand base for better drainage. Sports turf grown on a sand base can die if not watered, and replacement costs are high.

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Why are there some exemptions, such as golf courses and turf farms?

Sprinkling regulations are meant to reduce water use in ways that do not cause serious economic hardship. Those users requiring water as part of a commercial operation are expected to conserve as much water as possible without resulting in a loss of business.

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What about commercial window washing, commercial car washes, and commercial pressure washing?

The intent of the regulation is to conserve water without causing economic hardship or affecting a business's livelihood. It is in the interest of businesses to use water as efficiently as possible, since most pay according to the amount they use. Under Metro Vancouver's Water Shortage Response Plan Stage 1 regulations, individuals are permitted to hose and pressure wash outdoor impermeable surfaces.

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Can my children play in the sprinkler?

Yes, during allowable sprinkling times. If you run the sprinkler during restricted times, you could be fined.

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Can I wash my car?

Car washing is permitted only when necessary. You must fit your hose with a spring loaded shut-off nozzle. Allowing the hose to run continuously while you are washing your vehicle is not permitted. Using a soapy bucket of water will also save water.

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What if I have an un-established (new) lawn that needs extra watering?

Delta residents with new lawns can purchase a Lawn Sprinkling Permit from Municipal Hall or North Delta Recreation Centre. The permit is valid for 21 days and allows residents to water outside of their designated watering times (morning and evening watering is recommended). The permit needs to be clearly displayed in a front window.

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