York Region implements mandatory Stage 2 Water Ban for Aurora and Oak Ridges
King under voluntary advisory

York Region has issued a mandatory Stage 2 Outdoor Water Use Ban for Aurora and the community of Oak Ridges in Richmond Hill.

Oak Ridges is bounded by Bloomington Road, Leslie Street, Stouffville Road/Jefferson Sideroad and Bathurst Street.

A Stage 2 Mandatory Outdoor Water Ban states no person shall use municipal water from a hose, pipe, sprinkler or permanent irrigation system for the purposes of watering lawns or gardens, washing vehicles, sidewalks or driveways and filling or topping up swimming pools.

Residents can be fined up to $5,000 for outdoor watering in accordance with local municipal bylaws.

The remainder of York Region, including King, remains under a voluntary Stage 1 Outdoor Water Use Advisory, which requests residents to limit their outdoor water usage in accordance with their local watering bylaw. The Region is particularly stressing the need for voluntary water conservation in the remaining communities of Richmond Hill.

Jody LaPlante, King's director of operations, reported late last week that residents are asked to "restrict their use where possible."

He added rain is possible this week, and the Region continues to monitor local levels. "With any luck, we can make it through it," he remarked.

The Region has extended thanks to residents for their support and conservation efforts to date. Despite these efforts, the persistent hot, dry weather experienced across greater Toronto last week caused reservoir levels in Aurora and Oak Ridges to drop to below 40 per cent. An outdoor water ban in these areas was necessary to ensure an adequate supply of water to handle any emergencies that may arise.

The Region has answered more than 700 phone calls and e-mails to date and appreciates the interest and feedback that has been provided by residents. Through co-operation, the Region is hopeful will be able to remove the ban once water reserves have returned to a safe level.