Some businesses in southwest Ottawa are continuing to offer carwashes, even though the city has asked them to voluntarily shut down in recognition of the outdoor water ban.
While about 80,000 residents in Barrhaven, Riverside South and Manotick aren't allowed to water their lawns or wash cars in their driveways, some carwashes are still open for business.
Technically, many carwash stalls aren't located outdoors, and there are no rules to prevent businesses that offer indoor carwashes from using water.
While the city has asked those businesses to voluntarily close, many have not.
The city is now looking at legal options that would force businesses to comply.
"We are seeking legal opinion because the perception from myself and people in the community is that it's ridiculous," said Coun. Jan Harder.
The city issued a sweeping outdoor water ban last week so it could replace a water main on Woodroffe Avenue.
City officials say the water ban -- which could last until mid-August -- is needed because a replacement pipe can't supply the area with enough water to accommodate outdoor use.
If residents don't comply, it could affect the quality of their drinking water. They could also face fines.
Residents say if they can't wash their cars at home or water their lawn; carwashes should be shut down too.
"You know I understand some businesses have to thrive and it's thrown on people pretty quickly and everything, but as far as everybody suffering equally, we should all be conserving," said one resident.
"I just got a new house and they're going to put new sod around it, but they can't do it until the water ban is lifted . . . So, if the car wash is open, then I'm not too happy about it," added another.
The city will meet with businesses on Wednesday to try to come up with a solution.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Karen Soloman
