The water-conservation stage in force in Tofino now, what you can and can't do at it, and the full Stage 1-3 ladder — with the District's own page as the live source.
Tofino's water supply is the limit the whole town lives within. Each summer the District sets a conservation stage that says what everyone can and can't do with water. Here's the stage in force now and what it means — and the full ladder, so you can see what tightens if it steps up.
In force now
Stage 1 — Voluntary
Voluntary reduction. Outdoor watering is allowed, but only with efficient methods.
In force since 12 May 2026 · Confirmed 25 June 2026
The District sets the stage
District of Tofino declares which stage is in force. The stage shown here is what we last confirmed — for the live stage, check their page. official water page.
What this means right now
Watering lawns, gardens and landscaping — Limited
Allowed only by a hand-held hose with an automatic shut-off, a hand-held canister, a sprinkler, or drip irrigation.
Indoor use — Allowed
No limit — but the District asks for short (4-minute) showers, full loads of laundry and dishes, and a quick check for leaks.
Must display water-conservation information for guests.
Stage 2 — Mandatory
Mandatory. Outdoor watering of lawns and gardens is prohibited; only food plants may be watered, on scheduled days. Hot tubs and power washing are off.
Why the stages change
Tofino's drinking water comes from creeks on Meares Island, in Tla-o-qui-aht territory. In summer the town's demand can outrun what the creeks supply, so the District steps up the conservation stage based on reservoir and supply conditions.
Restrictions usually run from mid-May to mid-September. In 2026, Stage 1 began on 12 May.
Governed by the Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224, 2016.
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From Town Tools. For the current version, visit https://www.town.tools/tofino-british-columbia-ca/water-conservation-stages
Watering lawns, gardens, trees and landscaping — Not allowed
Only food plants may be watered, by hand-held canister: odd-numbered addresses Mon/Wed/Fri, even-numbered Tue/Thu/Sun, 6–9 am and 7–10 pm.