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Water restrictions in Parksville are increasing, beginning Monday, June 1, with a move to stage three for residents in the city. (Image Credit: Dreamstime)
level three

Early summer conditions sees increase to Parksville water conservation

Jun 1, 2026 | 10:10 AM

PARKSVILLE — Hot, dry weather recently, and more in the forecast, is forcing the hand of local water watchers.

Beginning Monday, June 1, the City of Parksville will move to stage three water restrictions, which limits watering to one day per week, with odd-numbered homes allowed to water on Mondays, and even-numbered on Thursdays.

Pop-up sprinkler systems to water lawns remain permitted, but only for one day per week and only for a two-hour window between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., or 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.

“The change to Level 3 is primarily driven by unseasonably warm and dry weather and low snowpack on Vancouver Island,” a release from the City notes. “Snowpack is currently critically low, sitting at about 20 per cent of normal seasonal average.”

Taking steps now is hoped to avoid harsher conservation measures later in the summer.

“Level 3 allows the City to maintain essential drinking water, hygiene and firefighting capabilities. Limiting non-essential uses like lawn watering will help to ensure sufficient flow for fish.”

Other restrictions under level three include specific windows for washing vehicles, RVs, boats or exterior surfaces.

The filling of pools, hot tubs or garden ponds can only occur on a house’s assigned day.

Vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all water conservation measures, while businesses requiring water to operate are also free to continue as normal.

This includes the watering of municipal fields and the operation of nurseries.

Further changes to water restrictions could come in the days and weeks ahead, as Regional District of Nanaimo officials routinely review conditions and assess forecasts.

Meanwhile, the Town of Ladysmith has moved to stage two water restrictions as of June 1, which includes the Town, Diamond Improvement District, and Stz’uminus First Nation.

More information on Ladysmith’s water restrictions can be found here on their website.

A quick guide to water restrictions for the Town of Ladysmith, currently in stage two as of June 1.
A quick guide to water restrictions for the Town of Ladysmith, currently in stage two as of June 1. (Image Credit: Town of Ladysmith)

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