Alternating outdoor watering days helps conserve groundwater resources during summer months

Oxford County residents are reminded that outdoor watering restrictions are in effect from May 1 to September 30. 

Under the water conservation program (By-law No. 4193-2002), residents may use sprinklers or hose to water their lawns and gardens every other day depending on house address number.

• Residences with an odd-numbered house address may water on odd days of the month (1, 3, 5, etc.) between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., and then 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
• Residences with an even-numbered house address may water on even days of the month (2, 4, 6, etc.) between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., and then 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Businesses and commercial properties follow the same schedule for odd and even day watering, but between the hours of 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.   

Residents who would like to request an exemption to the schedule, for instance to fill a swimming pool or for recently installed landscaping, can contact Oxford County for more information at 519-539-9800 or water@oxfordcounty.ca.

Lawn watering is one of the biggest users of municipal water in our communities. Last year in Oxford County, water consumption increased by as much as 51% in the summer months.

Oxford County’s water conservation program helps conserve the County’s groundwater supply during summer months, when water use is high. The County’s water supply relies entirely on groundwater, which takes longer to replenish and is more vulnerable to over-use than municipal water from other sources, like lakes. Conserving outdoor water use, including how often we water our lawns and gardens, helps care for this valuable resource.

Non-compliance with the by-law may result in reduced water pressure to the home for repeat offences, with a fine to restore water pressure to normal after a 24-hour waiting period.

The water conservation program is in effect for all Oxford County residents serviced by municipal water: Beachville, Bright, Brownsville, Dereham Centre, Drumbo, Princeton, Embro, Hickson, Ingersoll, Innerkip, Lakeside, Mount Elgin, Norwich, Otterville, Springford, Sweaburg, Plattsville, Tavistock, Thamesford, Tillsonburg and Woodstock.

For more information about the water conservation program visit www.oxfordcounty.ca/waterconservation  

Smart watering tips

• Overwatering your lawn can be harmful to its health. A thorough watering once a week will prevent excessive moisture and encourage deep, healthy roots. A layer of mulch also helps keep moisture in your garden soil and around tree roots.
• Hand-watering from a rain barrel is an environmentally friendly way to water grass and gardens using natural rainwater. Rain barrels should be screened to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. You can purchase a rain barrel from Oxford County by calling 519-539-9800 or toll-free at 1-866-537-7778.
• Avoid watering during the midday sun and wind. Watering early in the morning is best for your lawn and gardens and will limit evaporation.

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About Oxford County 

Located in southwestern Ontario at the crossroads of Highways 401 and 403, Oxford County has a population of approximately 135,000 people across eight area municipalities that are “growing stronger together.” A partnership-oriented, two-tier municipal government, Oxford County is committed to 100% renewable energy, zero waste, zero poverty, and being 100% housed. Oxford County is situated in one of Ontario’s richest areas for farmland, with a diversified local economy that is home to an innovative agricultural industry, leading automotive manufacturers, and the Oxford County Cheese Trail. Oxford also offers a thriving local arts and culinary community, as well as conservation parks, natural areas and more than 100 kilometres of scenic trails. The County’s Strategic Plan puts forward a vision of “Working together for a healthy, vibrant, and sustainable future.” The Oxford County Administration Building is in Woodstock, Ontario. Visit www.oxfordcounty.ca, follow us on social media, or download our Facts and Stats to learn more.