Mandatory Water Use Restrictions Imposed in Bowmanville Following Treatment Plant Issue

Residents and businesses in Bowmanville are required to immediately stop all non-essential indoor and outdoor water use, according to a notice issued by the Regional Municipality of Durham. The restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.

The Regional Municipality of Durham stated that the order was put in place after a maintenance issue was identified with one of three filters at the local water treatment plant. The Region said that although the remaining filters will continue to uphold water quality standards, the plant's overall capacity has been reduced. Officials indicated that the restrictions are necessary to maintain water levels needed for emergencies, including fire protection, while the issue is being investigated.

The Region provided examples of non-essential water use, which include cleaning driveways or decks, washing vehicles, and watering lawns. The order applies to all residents and businesses in Bowmanville within the Municipality of Clarington.

The Region also advised that, once restrictions are lifted, lawn watering may only be done under the odd-even day rule required by the Regional Water Supply By-law #89-2003 from May to September each year.