Calgary 
Effective August 15, 2023, the City of Calgary has imposed Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions due to sustained dry conditions and record low river flows on Bow and Elbow Rivers.
With a forecast of a warm and dry winter by Environment Canada, the primary objective is to ensure the sustainability of the city’s water reserves in the Glenmore Reservoir until the next spring and safeguard river health for downstream regions.
Importantly, the city assures its residents that the drinking water quality remains uncompromised.
The present concern is centered on the conservation of the available water volume. The restrictions apply to all City of Calgary water users, including residences, businesses, and city facilities.
During this phase, sprinkler usage is permitted once a week for a maximum of two hours, following a specific schedule:
- Even-numbered houses: Wednesday or Saturday.
- Odd-numbered houses: Thursday or Sunday.
- Watering intervals are 4-7 a.m., 9-11 a.m., or 7-10 p.m.
However, residents can water gardens, shrubs, and trees with handheld devices, fill pools or hot tubs, use rain barrel water, water new grass or seed, and use water for specific construction purposes anytime.
The following outdoor watering activities are not allowed:
- Washing outdoor surfaces, windows, exterior building surfaces, sidewalks, driveways or walkways. As an alternative, use a broom to clean hard surfaces.
- Washing a car on a driveway or street.
- Filling fountains or decorative features.
Exceptions exist for health and safety, and certain businesses can continue operations like:
- Washing outdoor surfaces for childcare facilities, food and beverage establishments and kennel and animal care facilities.
- Washing vehicles to follow health and safety regulations.
- Watering plants, shrubs and trees for sale.
- Exterior window washing and car washing provided by a business with a license to provide these services.
The city of Calgary hopes for residents’ cooperation during this challenging period. The city says while an educational approach remains a preference, non-compliance might attract penalties starting at $400.
