The City of Guelph is inviting residents to submit final comments on proposed changes to the Outside Water Use By-law and Program.
Review of the by-law was initiated in response to concerns from community members following implementation of Level 2 – Red restrictions during prolonged periods of local drought in the summer of 2012.
Earlier this year the City gathered feedback from residents and businesses on potential changes to the Outside Water Use Program and By-law through community forums, a business roundtable, online engagement forums and, most recently, a telephone survey.
A sample of proposed changes developed by City staff as an outcome of these feedback opportunities include:
• watering exemptions for food gardens and urban trees;
• restrictions to car washing during Level 2 Red drought conditions; and
• changes to program resources, permitting and administration to better support customer needs.
To view all of the proposed changes and to provide comments, visit guelph.ca/owureview.
Community members are encouraged to view the online materials and submit their comments by end of day Wednesday, August 28 by phone, fax, mail or email. To reflect the needs of the entire community, City staff hopes to receive comments from a variety of community members and stakeholders.
Public Comment Period
What: Proposed changes to the Outside Water Use By-law and Program
When: Thursday, August 15 to Wednesday, August 28
How: Via phone: 519-822-1260 x 2153; fax: 519-822-8837; mail: Outside Water Use By-law Comments at 1 Carden Street, City Hall, Guelph ON, N1H 3A1; or email: [email protected].
Feedback provided will be included in a report to City Council and will help staff finalize proposed changes to the by-law for Council’s consideration.
About the Outside Water Use Program
The City’s Outside Water Use Program (OWUP) is one of the most successful and recognized water conservation programs in Ontario. The program aims to conserve Guelph’s groundwater supply and protect against the impact of drought during the summer months.
The OWUP has three levels that affect outside water use: Level 0 Blue—careful use; Level 1 Yellow—reduce outside use; and Level 2 Red—reduce and stop non-essential use. These levels are triggered by dry weather and local watershed conditions in accordance the Province of Ontario’s Low Water Response Plan.
The OWUP is supported by the Outside Water Use By-law which applies to all outdoor water use within the City, specifically to any person using water and the owner of any property where water is used, unless the water being used is not supplied by the municipal water supply.