CITY – Brown lawns on the way as drought restrictions loom July 20

The City of Kamloops will put Drought Level 4 water restrictions into effect on Monday, July 20. City Hall announced today (July 17, 2026) the restrictions will apply to all customers who receive their water supply from the City’s potable water system in response to the Provincial Drought Level for the South Thompson River.

“The restrictions are designed to significantly reduce non-essential outdoor water use while protecting the community’s drinking water supply, supporting the health of local waterways and fish habitat, and ensuring water remains available for essential needs,” the news release stated..

Under Drought Level 4:
Lawn watering using a sprinkler or by hand is reduced to one day a week.
Watering of trees, shrubs, plants (including food-producing plants and crops), and flowers using sprinkler is reduced to one day a week, while drip irrigation remains permitted three days a week.
Washing driveways, sidewalks, patios, buildings, and other hard surfaces is permitted by pressure washer only.

“Every drop counts during heightened periods of drought,” said Jen Fretz, the City’s deputy chief administrative officer and civic operations director. “The actions residents and businesses take now will help reduce demand on our water system and support our community as dry conditions continue.”

The final digits of a resident’s legal street address will determine permitted water use day. For residents who reside in a complex or strata, the street address of the complex or strata will determine the appropriate watering day.

The preferred time for automated irrigation is between 12 a.m. and 7 a.m. Irrigation is not permitted on any day between 11 a.m. and 7 .pm.

Drought Level 4 restrictions will remain in effect until conditions improve and the City determines it is appropriate to move to a lower response level, the City said.

All divisions within the City are also taking steps to reduce water use “wherever possible” while still providing the services the community relies upon. Irrigation at parks and other municipal landscapes will be reduced in accordance with the Drought Response Plan.

Some treed areas, sports fields, and recreational spaces will continue to receive targeted watering to maintain safe playing surfaces and support community recreation. These spaces host leagues, tournaments and community events.

“Residents are reminded that a brown lawn is a normal response to hot, dry weather and does not increase wildfire risk. Dormant grass will recover when cooler, wetter conditions return. Residents are encouraged to focus watering efforts on trees and shrubs using permitted methods such as drip irrigation. Healthy trees and well-maintained shrubbery contribute to the urban canopy and can play an important role in creating more resilient landscapes. For more information on how you can do your part during and outside of drought conditions, visit LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/FireSmart.”

City water parks are not affected by Drought Level 4 restrictions. Such facilities are managed through the City’s Extreme Heat Response Plan and will remain open to help residents stay cool during periods of extreme heat.

“Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the current restrictions and look for simple ways to reduce water use at home, including fixing leaking faucets and irrigation systems, sweeping driveways and sidewalks instead of washing them with water, and running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads only.”

The full restrictions and water conservation tips can be reviewed at Kamloops.ca/Drought.