WaterSmart Program

Water Use, Access, Management and Conservation – Doing Our Part!

Water management is a shared responsibility between the City of Nanaimo, the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN), the Strata Corporation, and individual homeowners. By being mindful of how we use this vital resource in our daily lives, we help protect our natural environment and ensure its sustainability for future generations.

Our drinking water comes from Jump Lake, fed by the South Fork of the Nanaimo River within a natural catchment basin of roughly 200 km². The City of Nanaimo manages drinking water supply through filtration and treatment, while the RDN operates the regional wastewater system that serves the city and adjoining communities through multistage treatment.

Water within all watersheds is replenished by a combination of rainfall, snowpack (winter storage), underground aquifers, and engineered storage reservoirs. During low water years, public demand for water remains high even as availability decreases, making conservation measures essential to support core community needs.

Watering Restrictions and Conservation

Both the City of Nanaimo and the RDN monitor annual water supply levels and issue Water Use and Conservation notices linked to availability and seasonal forecasting. Both are partners in Team WaterSmart, a regional initiative that provides a common framework for watering restriction stages across the mid-Island area. Our Strata follows these guidelines to help ensure adequate water availability during low water periods, typically from late spring through summer.

For current restriction stages, watering schedules, and conservation tips:

 

Strata Bylaws and Water Use

Strata Bylaws prohibit the waste or excessive consumption of water. Strata Council is able to regulate high-demand activities and any excessive, unnecessary, or wasteful usage. Residents are encouraged to use efficient watering methods. Automatic irrigation systems, while convenient, are often high-use and will be scrutinized during water restrictions.

Violations can result in a fine of up to $200 plus remedial costs.

Who Is Responsible for What

The Strata is responsible for maintaining the common sewer and water system, including main water lines and common Strata infrastructure.

Homeowners are responsible for water lines on their own property, from the common property boundary (usually the road) to the home. Everyone is urged to:

  • Check regularly for leaks
  • Maintain plumbing, faucets, and hose connections
  • Know the location of their water shut-off

If an individual shut-off is not available, residents must contact the Strata Manager during business hours or use the emergency line after hours.

For Strata Manager contact information, see our Contact page 

For guidance on individual plumbing maintenance, see our Homeowner Maintenance Resources 

Each of us has an important role to play by staying informed, following water use guidelines, and doing our part to support responsible water conservation within our community.