Water Use

Town of Shelburne external water use strategy 

In Effect June 1, 2024 until August 31, 2024

During the hot, dry summer months, water consumption typically rises as a result of increased lawn watering, car washing and other outdoor uses, causing your water bill to increase and reserves to run low. Protect our environment by using the resources available to us wisely. 

As part of the Town’s Water/Sewer Bylaw 60-2020, starting June 1st, residents must follow the external water use regulations for careful use of water.

This regulation will ensure that our potable water is protected for the demands of Shelburne’s residents and for firefighting purposes.

Please see extract of Bylaw 60-2020 below:

USE OF WATER EXTERNALLY

Regulations - use of water - June, July and August
For the purpose of limiting the consumption of water as necessary:

During the months of June, July and August, the external use of water is permitted:

On even calendar dates at only those municipal addresses ending with numbers 0, 2, 4, 6, 8;
On odd calendar dates at only those municipal addresses ending with numbers 1, 3, 5, 7, 9.

The Town is authorized to implement at any time during the year any other regulation which he, in his discretion, considers advisable to limit the external use of water and this authority includes the right to ban completely the external use of water.

Notice of the implementation of a water use regulation by the Town and the effective date thereof shall be given immediately in a manner determined by the Town.

Upon the announcement of the implementation of a water use regulation by the Town, no person shall use water except in accordance with the provisions of such regulation.

Any questions may be directed to Town Hall:  519-925-2600 x 231 or water@shelburne.ca

Watering Tips

See our 8 Tips for Watering, Think Water.   

• Invest in a rain barrel to collect rain water. Water collected in your rain barrel is actually better for your garden because it doesn’t contain any chlorine contaminants and is at ambient temperature.
• Water early! When you water on hot, sunny or windy days the majority of water is lost to evaporation Watering in the morning means less water loss.
• Do not water when it is windy. Wind can blow sprinklers off target and speed up evaporation.
• Experts say you only need 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water, a week, including rainfall, to maintain a vibrant healthy lawn.
• When washing your vehicle, use a bucket with sponge plus a trigger nozzle and you will save litres of water.
• Use a cover on your pool when it is not being used. It will cut down on evaporation and keep it cleaner and warmer.
• STOP THE LEAKS!! One drip per second will waste 10 cubic meters (2167 gallons of water). Water leaks may be silent with worn toilets flaps or dysfunctional softeners. Save money, find your leak!!