We are presently at Stage 1 Water Conservation. A new municipal approach to managing Water Conservation was introduced this year. Key metrics are evaluated by the RMOW on a daily basis to assess the Stage of Water Conservation needed to operate, and maintain adequate fire storage levels. This information is published on a weekly basis, with the objective to provide one weeks' notice to the community prior to stage changes.
Water Conservation Level Evaluation
Week beginning July 16, 2018
| Factor | Possible Status | Status | Risk to Supply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Mile Creek Supply | Offline or online | Online (expanded operating limits with permission of Drinking Water Officer) | High |
| Reservoir Levels | Above or below fire storage levels | Above (monitoring Village Zone closely) | High |
| Fire Danger Rating | Low, Moderate, High or Extreme | High | High |
| Weather Forecast | Rainfall level | Warm weather forecasted, no rainfall. | High |
The graphic below is a visual representation of the outdoor potable water useage bylaw and provides a summary of the key water usage regulations. It does not contain all information regarding the bylaw. When referencing this bylaw and determining which regulations affect you, please refer to the content in Bylaw NO. 2179, 2018 and not the graphic.
Why Does Water Conservation Matter?
Potable water use increases in the summer months by more than 50 percent. The community water use target of 425 litres per person per day identified in the RMOW Comprehensive Water Conservation and Supply Plan means that all residents and businesses in Whistler have a shared responsibilty to save water for when we need it most.
Reducing water consumption decreases the amount of water that requires treatment, which reduces energy use and infrastructure costs. Water use guidelines ensure a reliable supply of potable water to meet Whistler’s daily domestic and commercial needs, protect natural aquatic habitats, and makes sure the community has adequate water for fire protection emergencies.
Water use conservation regulations apply only to the use of potable drinking water. Using rain water, gray water, or any form of recycled water is not restricted. Staff monitor Whistler's water supply and activate water use restrictions by evaluating the water supply (such as reservoir levels) and forecasts. Residents and visitors are encouraged to conserve water as much as possible to ensure that Whistler is adequately prepared in the event of fire emergencies.
Community Monitoring Data: Whistler's Water Use
Find out how the RMOW saves water.
Changes to Whistler's Water Use Regulations
The RMOW recently made changes to the outdoor potable water usage Bylaw (adopted April 24, 2018), which may have an impact on the way you manage your landscaping irrigation. After many months of consultation with stakeholders and the broader community, the updated bylaw now requires a stronger collective effort to monitor water use and reduce consumption when water supply levels are compromised.
The updated Bylaw is focused on outdoor water uses, including: irrigation, washing of vehicles, boats and hard surfaces, and filling of pools and hot tubs. It also details the Water Conservation Stages that may be enacted if potable water supplies are observed to be lower than required for essential services.
FAQs
What happens if I need to irrigate outside of permitted times because of a new landscape installation?
If you have a new landscaping installation first please consider the time in which it is installed. You can apply for a permit to water your new landscaping at additional times if you demonstrate you are using efficient watering methods. The permit is valid for 90 days after the date of issuance.
- Download and complete the Outdoor Potable Water Use Permit Application.
- Submit the application to the Municipal Hall with the $30 permit fee.
- After review and approval, receive the Outdoor Potable Water Use Permit. The permit will be valid for 90 days after issued and must be conspicuously displayed at the location for which it was issued.
Are RMOW properties regulated by the updated water use bylaw?
The RMOW parks operations will comply with the updated bylaw requirements, with a few exemptions required because of the risks associated with their replacement costs. These locations are:
- Olympic Plaza great lawn
- Myrtle Phillips School Sports Field
- Whistler High School Sports Field
- Spring Creek School Sports Field
- Rainbow Park and Spruce Grove Park have their own (non-potable) irrigation wells that are subject to different guidelines for use.
We appear to have lots of water, why am I being asked to conserve water?
While we are fortunate to have multiple fresh water sources, developing additional water sources to deliver potable water is heavily regulated. Whistler's Community Vision and Official Community Plan requires the RMOW to balance water conservation efforts with increasing supply. Reducing water consumption decreases the amount of water that requires treatment and storage, which reduces energy use and infrastructure costs.
Contact
Infrastructure Services
604-935-8190
engineers@whistler.ca
