Water Management is a shared responsibility between the City of Nanaimo, the Strata Corporation, and the individual residents.
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. Water for our homes comes from the South Nanaimo River Watershed, a 200 km² natural catchment basin co-managed by the City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN). The City manages drinking water supply through filtration & treatment, while the RDN is primarily responsible for regional wastewater treatment through a sophisticated multistage filtration treatment system serving the city and adjoining communities.
Water within all watersheds or catchment basins is generated through 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.
Both the City of Nanaimo and the RDN monitor annual water supply levels and issue Water Use and Conservation notices linked directly to water availability and seasonal forecasting. Our Strata follows their guidelines to help manage municipal and regional water supplies and ensure adequate availability during low water periods, typically from late Spring through Summer.
To assist residents with understanding the City of Nanaimo/RDN guidelines and the B.C. Provincial Government water supply monitoring we provide these direct links: https://rdn.bc.ca/notice-2026-04-28 and https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/water/drought-flooding-dikes-dams/river-forecast-centre/snow-survey-water-supply-bulletin
Strata Bylaws prohibit the waste or excessive consumption of water with Strata Council able to regulate high-demand activities, excessive, unnecessary, or wasteful usage of water. Residents are encouraged to use efficient watering methods and appreciate that while automatic irrigation & irrigation systems are convenient, they often are high-use and will be scrutinized to control water restriction use. Violations can result in a $200 fine plus remedial costs.
The Strata is responsible for maintaining a common sewer and water system, managing main water lines and common Strata infrastructure.
Homeowners are responsible for water lines on their own property up to the common property boundary (usually the road). Everyone is urged to check for leaks, ensure maintenance of plumbing, water faucets/hose connections and should be aware of 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 through the emergency line after hours.
For Strata Manager contact information please go to this link: https://longlakeheights.ca/wp2/contact/
For individual residents plumbing maintenance please go to this link: https://www.longlakeheights.ca/wp2/living-here/water-lines-shutoffs/
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.
