Lawn Watering

The Town of Saugeen Shores By-Law 89-2001 restricts the days when residents can water their lawns. During the summer months, it is necessary to reduce the water used outside the home. The greatest consumption is usually from lawn watering.

Watering Days

The Town of Saugeen Shores By-Law 89-2001 restricts the days when residents can water their lawns.

Lawn Restrictions are as follows:

Even-numbered houses may water lawns on even-numbered days
Odd-numbered houses may water lawns on odd-numbered days
Lawns may only be watered between the hours of: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Hand watering using a watering can is always permitted.
Watering restrictions will not apply to persons connected to private water systems such as Sandpoints or private wells. Please ensure “Lawn Watered by Sandpoint/Well” sign is visible from the road.

Good Watering Habits

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 is best to water established lawns at the rate of one inch per week, applied at one time. By limiting the watering to once a week, you will promote deep and healthy root development. When run-off occurs while watering your lawn and garden in sloped areas, shut off the water and allow the water to be absorbed into the ground. Repeat this process as necessary until sufficient water has been applied to your lawn

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.
Avoid watering on windy days as the wind may redirect the water away from desired areas.
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 are great for measuring natural precipitation and also a way to measure the volume of water applied while watering. Ideally most lawns only require about 1 inch per week.

Rain Gauge" Images – Browse 729 Stock Photos, Vectors, and Video | Adobe Stock

Rain Barrels

A great way to collect rain water and water your gardens.

Rain barrels are economical and ecological - MSU Extension

Lawn Watering Permit

For residents with new lawns that require daily watering, a “Lawn Watering Permit” can be obtained by emailing the Public Works Department. New lawns are those that have been sodded, seeded or lawns that have received hydro-seed.