For residents with new lawns such as recently sodded, seeded or lawns that have received hydro-seeded and requires daily watering, a “Lawn Watering Permit” can be obtained by emailing the Public Works Department.
Lawn Watering
The Town of Saugeen Shores follows By-Law 89-2001 which restricts the days when residents and visitors can water their lawns to even and odd days. This system is a way to conserve water, particularly in the summer months when more people reside in the town.
Lawn Watering Restrictions:
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Even-numbered houses: water on even-numbered days
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Odd-numbered houses: water on odd-numbered days
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Allowed times: 7–9 AM and 7–9 PM
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Hand watering with a watering can is always permitted
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Restrictions do not apply to private wells or sandpoints (please display a “Lawn Watered by Sandpoint/Well” sign)
Sandpoint wells are often used for irrigation and do not draw potable water.
Any residence serviced by the Municipal Water System that installs a Sandpoint, shall complete an application and pay the fees as set out in By-Law 89-2001.
Prior to issuance of a “Lawn Watered by Sandpoint/Well” sign, the applicant is to plan an inspection of the Sandpoint plumbing with Public Works to verify that a cross connection to the municipal supply has not occurred.
The key to successful lawn watering is to water slowly, deeply, and infrequently. Frequent and light watering leads to shallow roots and weed germination. It will also produce plants that are unable to tolerate dry periods. Complete drying between watering will help eliminate many lawn and garden diseases.
It’s best to water established lawns at the rate of one inch per week, applied at one time. Which promotes deep and healthy root development.
When run-off occurs while watering in sloped areas, shut off the water and allow the water to be absorbed into the ground. Repeat this process as necessary.
When to Water?
The best time of the day to water your lawn is in the early morning, as less water will evaporate.
When to Water?
The best time of the day to water your lawn is in the early morning, as less water will evaporate.
When not to Water?
Avoid watering in the middle of the day when evaporation rates are highest and avoid windy days.
Avoid watering in the evening as the grass stays wet all night, thus increasing the risk of disease.
Rain Gauges
Rain gauges are very simple to use. Most forms of rain gauges have a spike or pointed end which is pushed into the ground and a measured container for collecting water. They measure natural precipitation and measure the volume of water applied while watering. Ideally most lawns only require about 1 inch per week.
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Rain Barrels
Connect your Eavestrough outflow to a barrel. This collects rainwater and you can use this to water your lawn or garden.
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Contact Us
Town of Saugeen Shores
600 Tomlinson Drive, P.O. Box 820
Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C0
Phone 519-832-2008
Toll Free 1-866-832-2008
Fax 519-832-2140