The City of Vancouver is implementing new operating permit and reporting requirements for water features and other water systems.
To "more effectively respond to incidents, mitigate health risks by pathogens (such as Legionella pneumophila), and ensure compliance with updated standards", the City is issuing operating permits to help them and health authorities track new and existing:
Cooling towers
Water features
Non-potable water systems and other building water systems
How does this affect properties with water features or decorative fountains?
All new and existing indoor and outdoor decorative water features require an operating permit.
As of January 1, 2021, all new and existing decorative water features require a maintenance log.
As of January 1, 2022, all new and existing decorative water features also require:
Bi-monthly Legionella testing and reporting
Action when a Legionella result is 10 or more CFU (colony forming units) per mL
Exemptions
There are exemptions, such as systems for single-family homes and duplexes. Fish ponds and natural bodies of water are also exempt. Further, systems that have an operating permit under the BC Pool Regulation do not require a City operating permit.
How can Knightsbridge help?
As part of our Fountain Maintenance services, Knightsbridge's fountain specialists can help property and strata managers navigate these new water feature compliance measures, assisting with the permit application and setting up the maintenance log. Just contact us to get the ball rolling!
Get the full details about these new requirements at the City of Vancouver's website.