Level one watering restrictions have been implemented in a number areas under the Regional District of Nanaimo's new, co-ordinated system, which includes an interactive website.
The RDN board established a uniform framework for watering restrictions at their March 22 regular meeting.
"There was a great deal of confusion last summer across the region because each area had different watering restrictions and each area was using different language to communicate those restrictions to the public," said RDN board chair Bill Veenhof.
"This new framework will help make things more clear for water purveyors and for residents."
The new framework was developed with other water service providers and municipalities in the district and includes four categories, consistent across the region.
The individual water service providers will continue to decide when a stage comes into effect in their area, based on water availability and demand.
The intention is to provide a regulatory tool to curtail outdoor water use when supplies are under stress. The hope is that encouraging reductions early and communicating them clearly will help avoid having to implement the higher restriction stages later in the summer.
Along with the clearer restrictions the RDN rolled out advertising, direct mail and an interactive map (www.teamwatersmart.ca) where you can look at your specific neighbourhood and the level of restriction.
An RDN news release said "This is an important step towards improving implementation of watering restrictions, streamlining communications and increasing clarity for the public."
Level one restrictions were implemented as of April 1 in Bowser, the City of Parksville and RDN water service areas including Surfside/McFeely Drive, Whiskey Creek, Melrose Road, River's Edge, French Creek-Sandpiper, San Pareil and Nanoose Bay.
The early restrictions mean residents can only water at night, with any type of sprinkler or underground system, between 7 p.m.
and 7 a.m.
Residents with private wells that are not part of a community water system are not subject to this new framework, but are encouraged to continue to voluntarily practise water efficiency.
For more information visit www.rdn.bc.ca or call 1-877-607-4111.