What City of Kamloops Drought Level 4 restrictions mean for property owners

Under Level 4 restrictions, residents can water lawns, trees, shrubs and flowers one day a week using sprinklers or by hand, with drip irrigation still allowed three days a week.

“We’re trying to protect the environment,” added Wagner. “We’re trying to protect our water flows, make sure we have it when we need it.”

The city is also asking residents and businesses to avoid non-essential outdoor water use. Washing driveways, sidewalks and other hard surfaces is only allowed with the use of a pressure washer.

“The big takeaway from this is lawn watering – those are the major takeaways. You’ll also see some things that the city is proactively doing to meet some of those restrictions.”

The city says it is reducing its own water use, including irrigation at parks and munipal landscapes. Some sports fields and recreational spaces will continue receiving targeted watering to maintain safe playing surfaces.

“We do not just stop watering baseball fields and soccer fields, for example, because we have to keep those safe for user groups who are paying for those services,” said Wagner. “But we do cut back on what we’re doing.”

For residents looking to save water at home, experts say small changes can make a difference.

“One of the best ways to help save water is mulch,” said Becca Rohrke of Lyons Landscaping and Garden Centre. “Mulch helps retain the water or the moisture in the ground. It helps stop it from escaping so fast.”

The city says a brown lawn is a normal response to hot, dry weather and will recover when cooler, wetter conditions return. Officials say residents should focus watering efforts on trees and shrubs, which help support a more resilient landscape. Residents can find their watering day and more information about the restrictions here.

by Jeremy Russo

What City of Kamloops Drought Level 4 restrictions mean for property owners

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