The City of Gatineau has introduced strict new watering rules to curb water consumption, though Councillor Mario Aubé opposed the bylaw, citing concerns for evening-shift workers and the impact on residents who have invested in their landscaping. Photo: Screenshot of the March 18 caucus preparatory council meeting.
Gatineau tightens sprinkler restrictions to conserve water
Tashi Farmilo
Gatineau has introduced new watering restrictions to help reduce potable water consumption by 20%, part of a provincewide initiative.
Residents may now use sprinklers only two days a week from 8 to 10 pm. Even-numbered addresses can water on Tuesdays and Fridays, while odd-numbered ones are allowed on Wednesdays and Sundays. Previously, watering was permitted three times a week.
Automatic timers are generally banned. However, they are still allowed with in-ground irrigation systems, which may operate once a week between 3 and 5 am on Tuesdays for even-numbered addresses and Wednesdays for odd-numbered ones. This provides an option for night-shift workers who can't water manually in the evenings.
Manual watering of lawns, gardens, trees, shrubs, and vehicles is allowed every day between 8 and 10 pm, except Mondays. Special permits are available for newly planted lawns or gardens.
A $200 fine applies for non-compliance. A courtesy notice will be given for first-time violations but repeat offences can lead to fines. Year-round rules also prohibit watering driveways and sidewalks, using hoses without automatic shut-off systems, and operating more than one hose at a time (except when filling pools).
Not all councillors backed the new rules. At the March 18 caucus preparatory council meeting, Mario Aubé voted against the bylaw. "We should have reduced watering days gradually," he said, arguing for a transition from three to two days a week before imposing further restrictions.
Aubé also criticized the general ban on timers, noting that most residents rely on above-ground hoses equipped with simple timer attachments rather than costly in-ground systems. "Without timers, people who work evening shifts won’t be able to water," he said. Instead of an outright ban, Aubé proposed enhanced enforcement for misuse, particularly when residents water during rain.
"People are proud of their lawns and gardens," he added. "They’ve spent a lot of money, and now they might not even be able to water them properly."