Hosepipe ban across south east England starts today

The restrictions began at 12.01am today (Thursday, July 23), and affects more than 10 million customers across the south of England.

Under the ban, households and businesses supplied with drinking water by Thames Water are prohibited from using hosepipes for activities such as watering gardens, cleaning vehicles, and filling paddling pools or topping up hot tubs.

Thames Water announced the ban because of prolonged dry weather, recent heatwaves, very low rainfall levels and higher than normal water demand during the dry forecast.

Some customers are exempt, including those with severe mobility issues, regardless of whether they hold a Blue Badge.

For individuals with severe mobility issues, exemptions cover activities such as watering gardens, washing vehicles, and maintaining ponds.

Additional exemptions apply for certain animal welfare uses. These include filling pools used to decontaminate animals or treat disease, maintaining ponds that house aquatic animals, and operating ornamental fountains that supply oxygen to fish.

The Priority Services Register also provides exemptions for customers with specific medical conditions, such as those requiring dialysis, using oxygen, or with limited hand movement.

The ban does not apply to customers who only use Thames Water for wastewater services.

Watering cans and buckets are still allowed for those needing to water gardens or wash vehicles, and water butts can still be used.

Thames Water said it will continue to monitor water levels and review the restrictions as conditions change.