With recent heavy and frequent rain falls, residents may not be thinking about watering lawns and gardens. But, with drier months ahead, Utilities Kingston wants the community to be aware that seasonal watering restrictions are in effect from June 15 to Sept. 15. During this time, residents and businesses with odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered days, while evens may water on even-numbered days.

The City's Water By-law allows residents to:Use

• Use a hand-held hose, can or bucket any time on their scheduled day
• Use a sprinkler between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. on their scheduled day
• Use water from their rain barrel anytime!

Each year, the warmer weather is associated with a higher demand on water systems. Reducing the use of treated water during times when the demand for it is highest helps ensure reliable supply for adequate water reserves and pressure, and fire protection. It also helps manage the need to expand water treatment infrastructure.

Water and wastewater treatment infrastructure is built to handle peak demand times. Typically during the summer months we use the most treated water from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reducing water use during these peak times reduces the need to expand pumping stations and treatment facilities.

Reducing outdoor water use also reduces the pollutants that end up in surrounding bodies of fresh water. Much of the water from sprinklers and hoses (such as, from washing cars) runs off into the storm sewer, picking up pollutants that finally end up in Lake Ontario, Kingston's source of drinking water.

Residents are encouraged to practice water wise gardening to make every rain drop count. Using a rain barrel, following best watering practices, amending soil with organic content, and incorporating drought tolerant plants are just some of the sustainable practices that help reduce treated water use -  all with beautiful results.

Not sure where to start? For inspiration, take a free tour of the Utilities Kingston Water Conservation Garden at 1211 John Counter Blvd., participate in a free Water Wise Workshop, or check our online resources, including videos with helpful tips on water conservation. Utilities Kingston’s conservation team is here to help, just call 613-546-0000 and say ‘conservation’.

Sometimes new yards, shrubs and trees need water at times outside the schedule and that's why Utilities Kingston offers exemption permits. Visit our page on Summer Water Use to learn more about exemption permits, how to conserve water and money, and when you can use outdoor treated water.