In December 2024, Council adopted the Limits to Growth Policy. This policy helps manage development while protecting the community’s limited water supply.

Tofino’s water is supplied by five creeks on Meares Island, stewarded by Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. During dry summer months, demand often exceeds what the creeks can provide. As a result, the District is actively seeking to secure an alternative water source and additional treatment capacity by 2043. Until then, the Limits to Growth Policy guides how and when new development can move forward.

What the Policy Does
The policy sets a cap on the amount of new water use that the District can approve. Key features of the policy include:

• A Water Allocation Certificate (WAC) is required for all new developments.
• Water is prioritized for housing and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation-led projects.
• Some high water-use developments, like hotels and resorts, are not eligible for WACs.

Six-Month Review
At the June 24, 2025, Regular Council meeting, staff presented a six-month update on the policy. The review highlighted several key findings:

• Development interest is high. There is more demand for water than there is supply.
• Six WACs have been issued to date, allocating a total of 1.69 cubic metres of water per day.
• Staff are currently in contact with approximately 15 applicants, who collectively require over 80 cubic meters of water per day, surpassing the amount of 60 cubic meters allotted under the policy.
• If current demand continues, the remaining water supply could be fully allocated within the next year, meaning certain developments may not be able to proceed.

What’s Next
The District will continue to monitor elements of the policy closely. The next policy review is scheduled for January 2026.

To learn more, visit the Limits to Growth webpage or Talk Tofino page.