HOSEPIPE ban loopholes mean people can still water their lawns or even full up a hot tub despite emergency measures in place to combat drought.
It comes as two new regions declared low levels of water following a prolonged period of hot weather across the UK.
A ban on using hosepipes will also come into effect across South East England from FridayAlamy
The first regional hosepipe ban came into force across Yorkshire last week and is expected to last until winter.
A ban on using hosepipes will also come into effect across South East England from Friday.
This will affect more than 1.4 million people living in Kent and Sussex with some Surrey residents also asked to conserve water.
Yet there are work-arounds to the bans, with loopholes allowing people to water newly laid turf for a restricted period, typically 28 days, to establish roots and prevent it from drying out.
Full list of exemptions
Water companies generally acknowledge this and offer exemptions, but it’s always advisable to verify the specific regulations of your local water supplier.
If you’re uncertain or wish to err on the side of caution, you can also use a watering can, bucket, or drip irrigation system to hydrate your turf during a ban.
If you opt to use a hosepipe, aim to water during off-peak hours to reduce water consumption and evaporation.
A timer can also be useful to ensure the turf is watered at the optimal time and prevent overwatering.
The restrictions in the South of England follow the ban from Yorkshire Water which began on July 11 – the first of 2025.
Thames Water is also planning a ban across four counties from July 22.
Two new regions declare drought
Meanwhile, the East and West Midlands have become the latest areas declared to be in drought.
More hosepipe bans are expected, after one of the UK’s driest springs on record.
The Environment Agency warned millions more people will be affected this summer, following a meeting on Tuesday of the National Drought Group.
Thames Water’s temporary use ban, in areas with a postcode starting with OX, GL, SN and RG4, RG8 and RG9, will come into operation at one minute past midnight on Tuesday July 22.
It is estimated that about 1.1 million customers will be affected by the restriction.
What is a hosepipe ban?
A hosepipe ban, also known as a Temporary Use Ban, is a restriction on using hosepipes imposed by water companies to try and save water during periods of high demand or low supply.
For example, South East Water’s ban means that people living in certain areas are not allowed to use a hosepipe to:
Water a garden or plants
Wash a car, patio or boat
Fill a swimming pool, paddling pool or hot tub
Maintain or fill a domestic pond or ornamental fountain
This is to ensure enough water is saved for drinking, for those who are vulnerable and for essential use.
Anyone breaking these rules could be fined up to £1,000.
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