Halifax Water Issues Conservation Measures

USPA NEWS - Mandatory Water Conservation Measures are currently in effect for customers serviced by Lake Major, as of September 10th, 2025

Halifax Water is implementing mandatory Stage 1 water restrictions for the Lake Major effective immediately, impacting water service for the communities of Dartmouth, Burnside, Cole Harbour, Westphal, North Preston, and Eastern Passage (see attached map for affected service areas).

Persistent dry conditions and a lack of precipitation have led to Lake Major entering the warning phase, prompting the implementation of mandatory Stage 1 restrictions.

To conserve water, Halifax Water requests that all residents and businesses supplied by the Lake Major Water Supply Plant adhere to mandatory Stage 1 water conservation measures until further notice. The following activities are prohibited under mandatory Stage 1 conservation: lawn watering, vehicle washing, pool filling, and golf course watering. Bulk Fill Stations serviced by Lake Major will be closed.

With the implementation of mandatory measures, residential and commercial customers are now required to comply; failure to do so may result in a warning, a non-compliance fine, or suspension of service.

The implementation of these mandatory water conservation measures will ensure the maintenance of essential water service for all customers in the Lake Major service area.

The target is to lower demand until the lake is replenished with rainfall, thereby removing or delaying the requirement for an engineered pumping solution. Further mandatory Stage 2 restrictions may be put in place if lake levels are not restored.

Halifax Water is also advising customers serviced by the Lake Major Water Supply to adopt the following additional strategies to conserve water: If it’s yellow, let it mellow. Depending on the efficiency of your toilet, each flush uses between 6 to 26 litres of water. Limit your shower frequency and length. Turn off the tap when not required, such as when brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your face. Wash only full loads of laundry and dishes.

Halifax Water customers dependent on Pockwock Lake are requested to adhere to voluntary water conservation guidelines. Visit halifaxwater.ca/reducing-your-water-wastewater-use for an extensive list of water-saving strategies.