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            Frequently Asked Questions - Carlisle & Freelton

•  Where does Carlisle and Freelton's water come from?

•  Is there further construction of subdivisions planned which would further impact our water supply?

•  What is the City of Hamilton watering By-law?

•  Is there a modified watering ban in Carlisle and Freelton? What is the current ban?

•  Why should I comply with the ban?

•  Any reprieve on the ban for landscaping projects and new sod?

•  What are the consequences if I do not comply with the By-law and Ban?

•  My sprinkler system is on a timer and I will be away on vacation. What should I do to avoid a fine?

•  What City personnel may I contact regarding any concerns I have on this matter?




Where does Carlisle and Freelton's water come from?
Carlisle and Freelton's water source comes from the groundwater in an aquifer.  Groundwater is formed when rain or other preciptation gets into the soil and moves down until it reaches the water table. The water within the soil pores or fractures in the rocks provides the water supply source (or aquifer) for our groundwater wells.


Is there further construction of subdivisions planned which would further impact our water supply? 
The Ontario government’s "Places to Grow" strategy will limit anything beyond the current rural settlement area.


What is the City of Hamilton watering By-law?
City of Hamilton Waterworks By-Law R84-026.
The City of Hamilton Waterworks By-law restricts lawn and garden watering to every other day.
All residents across Hamilton must abide by the Hamilton Waterworks By-law which restricts lawn and garden watering to every other day
-Even-numbered municipal addresses are permitted to water on even-numbered days
-Odd-numbered municipal addresses, are permitted to water on odd-numbered days
-Residents without a municipal address, located on the west and north sides of the street are permitted to water on even-numbered days.
-Residents without a municipal address, located on the east and south sides of the street are permitted to water on odd-numbered days.


Is there a modified watering ban in Carlisle and Freelton?  What is the current ban?
Yes. To ensure continuous water service to all residents in Carlisle and Freelton, residents may water between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and then again from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on their designated odd or even day.


Why should I comply with the ban?
It is imperative for residents to understand the importance of following the mandatory ban.  The City requires an opportunity to fill the elevated water storage tank both mid-day and during the night to prepare for the next cycle of water use and meet the water needs of the Carlisle and Freelton residents.


Any reprieve on the ban for landscaping projects and new sod?
To ensure continuous water service to all residents, both the modified outdoor watering ban and By-law are enforced. No exceptions will be made. 


What are the consequences if I do not comply with the By-law and Ban?
Any person contravening the By-Law and the modified outdoor watering ban (outside the permitted water times), on the first offence will receive a warning.  On the second offence, a Provincial Offences Notice may be issued in the amount of $365 (including surcharge and costs) and/or the initiation of court proceedings.  All subsequent offences may result in the initiation of court proceedings which provides for a penalty of up to $5,000 under the Provincial Offences Act.  City of Hamilton By-law enforcement officers patrol areas to ensure compliance with the ban.


My sprinkler system is on a timer and I will be away on vacation.  What should I do to avoid a fine?
Homeowners with sprinkler systems should modify the timing of their sprinkler system themselves to ensure they comply with the watering ban.  It is the responsibility of the homeowner to ensure their compliance with the by-law.


What City personnel may I contact regarding any concerns I have on this matter?
For more information, please contact a Water and Wastewater Customer Service Representative at 905-546-4426.