Lawn watering ban remains in effect for Lakefield; total burn ban for Selwyn Township
By Stacey Sullivan
A notice from Selwyn Township on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, reminded residents that a lawn watering ban remains in effect for Lakefield. The ban follows a recent watermain break and is also in place due to ongoing drought conditions.
While the watermain break is being repaired, residents are asked to limit all nonessential water use until further notice.
The notice, sent via email and posted on social media, also informed residents of a total burn ban in the Township.
Lawn watering ban remains in effect for the Village of Lakefield, residents asked to limit non-essential water use due to a watermain break and ongoing drought conditions
Level 1 drought issued by Otonabee Conservation
Otonabee Conservation has declared a Level 1 drought throughout its jurisdiction due to low rainfall and extremely high temperatures. The dry, hot conditions can affect crop yields, water supplies and aquatic ecosystems.
A Level 1 drought, as defined by the Otonabee Region Conservation Authority, is the earliest stage of low water conditions, when reduced rainfall and stream flows prompt a call for a voluntary 10% reduction in non-essential water use.
Residents are asked to voluntarily limit all non-essential water use, including lawn watering, car washing, filling pools and other outdoor water use.
For more information, visit www.otonabeeconservation.com.
Level 1 drought issued by Otonabee Conservation on August 7, 2025 (Photo: Otonabee Conservation)
Total burn ban issued in Selwyn Township
Due to increased fire risk from dry weather and high temperatures, the Selwyn Fire Department issued a total burn ban on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025. The ban took effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice. All burn permits are now void.
Prohibited burning:
Yard waste and brush burning
Campfires and bonfires
Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and chimineas
Agricultural burns
Fireworks
Fire safety reminders:
Dispose of smoking materials properly
Use extra care when operating machinery outdoors
Be aware of your surroundings when in open fields and wooded areas
Violations of the burn ban may result in fines. The ban will be lifted when conditions improve.
For the most up-to-date information, visit www.selwyntownship.ca.
By Stacey Sullivan