Water Exemption Permits

The City offers two types of water exemption permits, allowing residents to water outside of the watering restrictions, however, policies still exist in each case. 

  1. Nematode Treatments
  2. New Lawns

Nematodes are microscopic organisms that can control European Chafer beetles and are most effective when applied around late July and mid-August. Residents can apply for a Water Exemption Permit from the City to sufficiently water their treated lawns outside of the water use restrictions. The nematode permit policies have changed effective May 1, 2022. Please review the updated policies below.

Please refer to our European Chafer Beetle Information to learn about managing European Chafer beetle infestations on your lawn.

Permit Policies

  • Permits are valid for three weeks (21 days) from the permit issue date and only apply to the lawn area treated with nematodes.
  • Permits allow watering of the treated lawn area between 4 and 9 a.m. any day within the validity period.
  • Permits are free of charge and can be renewed one time if a second nematode treatment is applied.
  • To apply, applicants must show proof of nematode purchase (e.g. receipt for a nematode product or invoice for a nematode treatment service).
  • Permits must be displayed at the front of the property and visible from the curb and/or sidewalk (e.g. on the front window or door).
  • Active permits are allowed to continue during Stage 2 of the water use restrictions until they expire. No new permits will be issued in Stage 2. All permits will be cancelled upon the activation of Stage 3 restrictions.

How to Apply

Apply Online

Complete the Nematode Water Exemption Permit application form (PDF), and email the application form and proof of nematode application to Water Conservation. Please allow 1-2 business days for staff to process and issue the permit.

Apply in Person

Bring your proof of nematode purchase and apply in person at Engineering Customer Service at City Hall. Permits will be ready for pickup on the same business day. 

Companies

Companies may apply for nematode permits on behalf of Coquitlam residents.

Please email Water Conservation with a complete and updated list of property addresses requiring permits, including the full names and contact numbers of the residents. Please allow 3-5 business days for staff to process and issue the permits.