Access & Inclusion | City of New Westminster

Lawn Watering Permit - Online Application

**Only required while watering restrictions are in effect May 1 to Oct 15**
Additional information about water conservation can be found on the Metro Vancouver’s website.

Permit Conditions
Lawn Watering Permits are valid for 21 days from the date of application for lawns that have been newly turfed, seeded or treated with pest control during Stage 1 restrictions. If required, a re-application can be made for one (1) extension. This extension is valid during Stage 1 only for an additional 21 days from the original date of expiry - to a maximum of 42 days in total.
Permits will be issued during Stage 1 restrictions only. No permits will be issued under Stage 2, 3 and 4; however, any permits issued under Stage 1 will remain valid under Stage 2 until the permit expires.

Permit Fees for 2025:
Residential - $58.00
Multifamily - $85.00
Commercial/Industrial - $172.00
Pest Control (nematode) - No Charge
Lawn Watering Extension Fee - Same as above

Newly Turfed or Seeded Lawns
New lawns may require more water than provided under the current watering regulations. Permit fees are based on Residential, Multifamily, or Commercial/Industrial properties.

Permitted Watering Hours:
  • Residential Properties: permit is valid for a period of 21 days,
    Monday to Sunday, between 4:00 AM – 9:00 AM
  • Commercial Properties: permit is valid for a period of 21 days,
    Monday to Sunday, between 4:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
  • Proof of purchase receipt may be required for lawn seed, sod or turf.
*All issued Lawn Watering exemption permits may be subject to an on-site inspection by City staff for permit validation and compliance.

Pest Control (European Chafer Beetles)
When treating your lawn with nematodes to control European chafer beetles, the amount of water needed will depend on your lawn, soil depth, and weather conditions. If you need more water than provided under the current watering regulations, apply for a Lawn Watering Exemption Permit.

Permitted Watering Hours:
  • Residential Properties: Permit is valid for a period of 21 days,
    Monday to Sunday, between 4:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
  • Commercial Properties: Permit is valid for a period of 21 days,
    Monday to Sunday, between 4:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
  • Proof of purchase receipt may be required for nematodes.
*All issued Lawn Watering exemption permits may be subject to an on-site inspection by City staff for permit validation and compliance.

For additional information about the City of New Westminster’s Lawn Watering Permit Program, please contact Engineering Services: 604-527-4592 email: engpost@newwestcity.ca or
Lawn Watering Enforcement: 604-519-2010 email: lawnwatering@newwestcity.ca

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