Updated by-law modernizes water conservation measures while continuing to prioritize education and responsible water use
The Township of North Stormont has adopted an updated Water Usage and Conservation By-law (By-Law No. 31-2026), replacing the previous 2021 by-law with a modernized framework designed to protect the Township's municipal drinking water system while providing residents with clearer guidance on outdoor water use. The new by-law was approved by Council on June 23, 2026.
The updated by-law reflects current municipal best practices and introduces a more flexible, staged approach to water conservation that allows the Township to respond more effectively to changing weather conditions, high water demand, and emergency situations.
"Protecting our drinking water system is a shared responsibility," said Mayor François Landry. "This updated by-law provides residents with clear expectations while giving the Township the flexibility to respond quickly when water conservation becomes necessary. Our goal is to educate first and ensure our water system remains reliable for everyone."
Protecting Our Water Supply
The updated by-law was developed in response to increasing demands on municipal infrastructure and the need for clearer communication during periods of water stress. It aligns with the Township's Strategic Plan by modernizing service delivery and improving transparency for residents.
The by-law applies only to properties connected to North Stormont's municipal water systems in Crysler, Finch and Moose Creek, and does not apply to homes served by private wells.
Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated Water Usage By-law and help conserve water throughout the summer months. Updates regarding any changes to Water Conservation Stages will be communicated through the Township's website and official communication channels.
What's New?
The updated by-law introduces several important improvements, including:
Three Water Conservation Stages
Rather than relying on a single set of restrictions, the Township can now implement one of three conservation stages depending on water supply conditions:
• Stage 1 – Water Conservation / Normal Use: Regular seasonal watering rules remain in effect.
• Stage 2 – Water Restriction: Lawn watering using hoses or sprinklers and other non-essential outdoor water uses are temporarily prohibited.
• Stage 3 – Emergency Water Ban: All non-essential outdoor water use is prohibited until the emergency has passed.
Faster Response During Emergencies
The Chief Administrative Officer, in consultation with the Township's Water & Sewer Operator, now has the authority to declare, amend, or lift conservation stages as conditions change. This allows the Township to respond more quickly during periods of high demand or system emergencies without waiting for a Council meeting.
Clearer Seasonal Watering Rules
The seasonal watering schedule remains familiar for residents served by municipal water:
• Outdoor watering is permitted between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
• Even-numbered addresses: Monday, Wednesday and Friday
• Odd-numbered addresses: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
• No outdoor watering on Sundays
• Manual hand watering (i.e. rain barrels) continues to be permitted.
Improved Protection of Municipal Infrastructure
The by-law also strengthens rules surrounding the use of municipal fire hydrants. Contractors and others requiring hydrant water must obtain authorization from the Township, and additional safeguards have been introduced to prevent damage, water loss, and unauthorized use.
Updated Exemption Process
Residents may continue to request exemptions for specific circumstances, such as watering newly installed sod. However, exemptions may be limited or suspended during higher conservation stages if necessary to protect the municipal water supply.
Education First
While the updated by-law introduces clearer enforcement tools and the ability to issue Provincial Offences Act fines, when necessary, the Township's approach remains focused on education, communication, and voluntary compliance.
The report presented to Council notes that enforcement under the previous by-law was rarely required, with most compliance achieved through public education. The updated by-law continues that philosophy while providing additional tools for situations involving repeated or serious non-compliance.
How will the launch of the water conservation stages be communicated to residents?
In the event that the water supply conditions change, and a change in the conservation stages are declared, residents will be notified in a variety of ways, including:
• On the front page of the Township website at www.northstormont.ca
• On the Township’s Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/NorthStormont/
• Printed on the bulletin board at Town Hall, located at 57 A Cockburn Street, in Berwick.
• On the Digital Signs located near the entrances to Avonmore, Crysler, Finch and Moose Creek.
• At the Post Office locations in Avonmore, Berwick, Crysler, Finch, Monkland and Moose Creek.