Watering Restrictions

Every year, warmer weather increases demand on water systems, putting low reserves at risk and placing pressure on the system's ability to fight fires. For conservation and safety, Utilities Kingston can set watering restrictions to limit the external use of water between June 15 to September 15.  

Notice of any additional water use regulations and their effective date are published in local newspapers and through social media.  

If you have an odd-numbered home, you can use outdoor water on odd-numbered days.  

If you have an even-numbered home, you can use outdoor water on even-numbered days.  

You can use hand-held hoses, cans, and buckets anytime on your scheduled day, but sprinklers are limited to mornings from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. 

Learn more about the rules around the watering restrictions in the Water Use Bylaw.

When is the best time to water? 

Watering your lawn in the early morning helps prevent evaporation and grass diseases. To maintain a healthy lawn, it only requires about three centimetres of water per week. A standard lawn sprinkler can provide this amount in approximately one hour. 

Exemptions 

If you have a new yard, you can get an exemption permit to water it for seven days using a sprinkling device between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. New trees and shrubs also qualify for an exemption permit, allowing you to water them for seven days with a hose or watering can.  

The permit costs $55 plus HST and is issued by Utilities Kingston. It's valid only for the specified seven-day period. Each property can get one exemption permit per year. 

Exemption permits are not available for existing yards, trees, and shrubs, but exceptions may be made for cases of irreparable damage or undue hardship.