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Lawn watering rules and permits in Burnaby, BC
Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
Burnaby returned to Stage 1 watering restrictions on September 1, 2026. Lawns may be watered one morning a week, with different hours for automatic and manual watering.
Key information
Burnaby returned to Stage 1 watering restrictions on September 1, 2026. Lawns may be watered one morning a week, with different hours for automatic and manual watering.
On this page
Use the current stage
Regional restrictions normally run from May 1 to October 15. This guide reflects the Stage 1 notice checked on October 14, 2026, not a permanent promise of allowed watering. A later stage change can tighten the rules.
For residential lawns, automatic watering is allowed 5 am to 7 am and manual watering 6 am to 9 am on the assigned day. The parsed City text did not provide address-parity weekdays, so use the official schedule graphic before setting a timer.
Other plants and surfaces
Residential trees, shrubs and flowers may use sprinklers 5 am to 9 am on any day. Hand watering and drip irrigation may be used any time; a hose needs an automatic shut-off nozzle. Vegetable gardens may be watered any time.
Non-residential lawn automatic watering is 4 am to 6 am, while manual watering is 6 am to 9 am on its assigned day. For non-residential trees and flowers, sprinkler hours begin at 4 am and end at 9 am. Stage 1 permits aesthetic surface washing and topping up decorative water features.
New lawn and treatment exemptions
New seed, sod or turf can qualify for a 21-day exemption. Supply a current purchase receipt and pay the $65 fee including tax. Nematode treatment for European chafer beetles has a free permit; BTG products do not qualify.
Permitted watering runs 4 am to 9 am for 21 consecutive days. Processing, issue and commencement are within three business days. Staff inspect the site. No new permits are issued at Stages 2, 3 or 4; existing Stage 1 permits continue at Stage 2 but are cancelled at Stage 3.
Reporting and penalties
Call Water Conservation Officers at 604-293-6528 or use the City reporting form. Posted violation fines rise from $150 at Stage 1 to $250, $350 and $500 at Stages 2, 3 and 4. Card payments for permits add 1.8%.
Quick reference
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Residential lawn automatic | 5 am to 7 am, assigned morning |
| Residential lawn manual | 6 am to 9 am, assigned morning |
| Residential other plants: sprinkler | 5 am to 9 am, any day |
| Hand watering/drip; vegetables | Any time under Stage 1 conditions |
| Exemption duration | 21 consecutive days |
What to do next
- Check the stage
Read the latest notice and address-specific watering day.
- Set the system
Match timer or manual watering to allowed hours.
- Apply if eligible
Obtain an exemption before extra watering.
10 useful questions
Which stage was active when this guide was checked?
The City showed Stage 1, restored on September 1, 2026.
When do normal seasonal restrictions apply?
From May 1 to October 15, subject to the active regional stage.
Can I automatically water a residential lawn at 8 am?
No. Stage 1 automatic residential lawn hours end at 7 am.
When can I hand water flowers?
Stage 1 allows hand watering or drip irrigation any time, with an automatic shut-off nozzle on a hose.
Can I water a vegetable garden at midday?
Yes, under the stated Stage 1 rules.
Does new sod qualify for an exemption?
A new lawn may qualify with a current purchase receipt and an approved permit.
How long does an exemption last?
It lasts 21 consecutive days from issue.
Is a chafer nematode permit free?
Yes. The City waives the fee for this treatment; BTG products do not qualify.
What happens to a permit at Stage 3?
All exemption permits are cancelled when Stage 3 begins.
How do I report watering outside the rules?
Use the City form or call 604-293-6528.
Official information and forms
This guide covers the municipal service in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Fees and active service notices can change. Use the linked official page for the application or latest notice.