Carleton Place officials urges residents to conserve water as demand reaches yellow level

The Town of Carleton Place is asking residents to reduce their water consumption after demand at the municipality’s water treatment plant has increased to a Yellow – Conserve level, indicating that water demand has risen but has not yet reached critical levels.

While the system is continuing to meet demand, town officials said in a release on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 that water usage is higher than normal due to the extreme temperatures. As a result, they are encouraging residents to use water wisely in the coming days to help avoid further restrictions.

To help reduce consumption, the town is asking residents to take simple conservation measures, including watering lawns and gardens during the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler and evaporation is lower.

Officials also recommend the following tips to conserve water:

• Choose drought-resistant trees and plants for your yard and garden.
• Mulch gardens and trees to help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
• Be mindful of not watering paved or unwanted areas
• Set your lawnmower higher to avoid the grass drying out.
• Consider harvesting water with rain barrels to use in planters and in the garden.

The town also took this opportunity to remind reminds of the annual lawn watering restrictions, which remain in effect through Sept. 30.

Under the watering schedule, residents with odd-numbered addresses may water their lawns on odd calendar days, while those with even-numbered addresses may water on even calendar days. Throughout July, lawn watering is only permitted between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Residents with questions about the municipality’s water demand status can consult the Water Demand FAQ on the Town of Carleton Place website or contact Director of Public Works Guy Bourgon by email at gbourgon@carletonplace.ca.