There are seven water regions within the Regional District of Nanaimo. The City of Nanaimo’s drinking water supply is part of Water Region WR6 (Nanaimo River).

Water restriction stages for this service area are determined using the Watering Restriction Guidance Curve, which considers reservoir levels and system demand.

The chart below shows daily water levels in the Jump Creek Reservoir, updated to May 20, 2026, and illustrates how current conditions compare to the guidance curve.

New lawns (seed or sod) may qualify for a 14-day watering permit to water outside restricted days. To apply, contact Public Works at 250‑758‑5222. Please note that permits may not be issued during Stage 3 or 4.

Newly planted trees and shrubs can be watered at any time during the first 24 hours after planting. After this period, watering must follow the current stage restrictions.

Vegetable gardens and fruit trees may be watered at any time; however, residents are encouraged to conserve water whenever possible.

The water restriction framework is designed to reduce demand and protect Nanaimo’s water supply as conditions change throughout the season.

Stage 1 encourages general water conservation while allowing flexibility when supplies are stable.
Stage 2 introduces clear and manageable limits on outdoor water use to help reduce demand.
Stage 3 requests further voluntary reductions prior to implementing a ban, enabling residents to choose where they cut back – the focus is on lawns, and providing an opportunity to defer a comprehensive ban.
Stage 4 is implemented when supplies are under greater stress and restricts most non‑essential outdoor water use, including automated sprinklers, vehicle washing, and surface cleaning.

Vegetable gardens are exempt from all stages and can be watered at any time.
Hand-watering and drip irrigation are allowed in all stages, although they must follow time restrictions during Stage 4.

Commercial enterprises that rely on water for normal operations, along with essential municipal infrastructure such as playing fields, nurseries, and tree farms, are also exempt. This helps balance water conservation needs while minimizing impacts to local services and the economy.

Water Restriction Stages are different from Provincial Drought Levels, as they are based on local reservoir conditions and water use in Nanaimo.