Watering in Laval: A Challenge for Preserving Water Resources This Summer
In Laval, as throughout the world, water is a precious resource that must be managed carefully. In response to climate change, the City has implemented a clear regulation to govern the use of water for outdoor purposes: Bill L-12778. This legal framework aims to reduce water waste, protect our ecosystems and raise awareness among Laval residents about responsible consumption.
A Regulated Regulation for Watering
From May 1st to September 30th, outdoor watering is permitted, but only under strict supervision. Outside of this period, all automatic and non-automatic systems are prohibited.
What Is Allowed
Hand watering of flowers, vegetable gardens, and flowerbeds is permitted at all times. Watering with a hand-held hose is permitted from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The use of automatic or non-automatic watering systems (depending on the schedule assigned to your address) is also permitted. You can visit the City’s website to find out the schedules specific to your neighborhood.
New Requirements for Automatic Watering Systems
Since January 1, 2025, all automatic watering systems must have a maximum flow rate of 25 L per minute and must be equipped with a timer allowing them to operate only during authorized periods. They must also be equipped with a humidity sensor and an automatic switch in case of rain.would declare in order to avoid waste.
What is Forbidden
Cleaning parking areas, sidewalks or roofs without a permit is strictly prohibited, as is using hoses without an automatic shut-off nozzle. Letting water run into the street, wasting water with faulty equipment or using multiple hoses at the same time also constitutes prohibited conduct.
The Issues Behind This Initiative
An environmental issue
Drinking water does not fall from the sky (or at least not in a form suitable for consumption!) Not to mention that water treatment requires a lot of energy and resources. Every liter wasted during watering is a liter that could have been used for hydration, agriculture, or the preservation of natural environments.
A legal issue
Failure to comply with Bylaw L-12778 can result in fines, but more importantly, it jeopardizes the community’s collective efforts to preserve a vital resource. The law exists to ensure fairness among Laval residents.
Penalties for Violations
Natural person :
1st offense: fine of $100 to $1,000.
2nd offense: fine of $250 to $2,000.
Legal entity :
1st offense: fine of $200 to $2,000.
2nd offense: fine of $400 to $4,000.
To preserve the quality of your greenery while complying with the law, there are many solutions available to you. Rain can even be a great ally for minimizing the use of garden hoses.
Simple Actions to Save Water: The City’s Recommendations
- Prioritize useful watering: only when the plants need it, avoid drowning your lawn in water, etc.
- Install a rainwater collection barrel (for various uses)
- Clean exterior surfaces with a broom instead of a hose
- Cover your pool to prevent water from evaporating and avoid having to refill it
- Use rainwater as natural watering
Following watering regulations in Laval is not just a matter of compliance, it is a commitment to our environment, our community, and future generations. So this summer, let’s make informed watering choices while enjoying the warmer weather ahead!
