09/07/2026
💦The hosepipe ban comes into effect at midnight on Friday 10th.
You can still use watering cans or connect your hose to a water butt.
These are the exemptions:
Vulnerable customers: Individuals on a water company’s Priority Services Register who cannot reasonably use alternative methods like a heavy watering can are automatically exempt. This includes Blue Badge holders and those with chronic medical conditions.
Commercial operations: Businesses are exempt if the hosepipe is essential to their core commercial purpose. Examples include commercial growers, professional car washes, window cleaners, and tradespeople mixing cement.
Alternative water sources: The ban applies strictly to mains tap water. You can freely use a hosepipe if it is connected to a rainwater butt, a greywater recycling system, or a private borehole or well.
Drip irrigation: Many providers allow the use of fixed drip or trickle irrigation systems, provided they are fitted with a timer and a pressure-reducing valve.
Agricultural food crops: In many areas, watering food crops in a private allotment or garden with a hosepipe is permitted if doing so by watering can is completely unfeasible.
