Public FAQ: How VAID Water Bylaws & Policies Affect You

Q1: What do I need to do to connect a new building to VAID water?

Submit a written application with plans and pay the application fee.
Pay a development fee (CEC) only if required (see next question).
VAID reviews your application for system capacity and compliance.

Q1a: Do I need to pay the Capital Expenditure Charge (CEC) for my property?

If your property has already been paying parcel taxes or the CEC was paid for your existing unit, you do not pay the CEC again.
You only pay the CEC ($5,000 per unit) if you add new units (e.g., new house, suite, commercial space) that increase demand on the water system.
If you’re unsure, contact the VAID office to confirm whether a CEC applies to your project.

Q2: Who pays for engineering, installation, and inspection?

The developer or property owner pays all costs for engineering studies, installation, and inspection of water works.

Q3: Where does VAID’s responsibility end?

VAID owns and maintains water infrastructure up to the service connection (usually at the property line).
Everything beyond the service connection (on private property) is the owner’s responsibility.

Q4: What rules apply to water use?

All users must follow water conservation and restriction bylaws (Bylaws).
VAID can restrict water use during droughts or emergencies.

Q5: What happens if I break the rules or don’t pay fees?

VAID can turn off your water with 24 hours’ notice.
Penalties and retroactive charges may apply for violations.

Q6: Do these rules apply to existing homes?

Yes, conservation and distribution rules apply to all users.
Development fees and application process apply only to new connections or additional units.

Q7: How do these bylaws and policies work together?

Development Policy & Bylaw: Set the process for new connections and development.
Capital Expenditure Charge Bylaw Sets the development fee for new units.
Water Distribution Regulations Bylaw: Regulates installation, connection, and owner responsibility after the property line.
Water Conservation and Restrictions Bylaw: Sets water conservation and use restrictions for everyone.

Need more details or want to see the full bylaws? Visit our Bylaw page or contact the VAID office.