The Sunshine Coast Regional District has moved to Stage 4 water restrictions for most of the region, banning all outdoor water use effective Thursday.

With the exception of Pender Harbour to Earl’s Cove and Egmont, all watering of flower and vegetable gardens, and shrubs and trees, must cease.

Under Stage 3 restrictions, hand watering had been allowed.

Lawn sprinkling had already been banned under Stage 3 restrictions, as well as washing of cars and hosing of sidewalks and driveways.