More than 140 golf clubs in England have violated their water extraction licences over the past five years, according to data obtained from the Environment Agency (EA). These breaches, which include taking water beyond permitted limits or during unauthorized periods, raise concerns amid the nation's ongoing water scarcity challenges.
The analysis of records from 2021 to 2025 shows that golf clubs accounted for approximately 6% of total abstraction licence breaches during this period, with 279 recorded violations. Of these, 175 breaches were classified as category 2 or 3, implicating a potential reasonably foreseeable impact on the environment, public health, or quality of life. More than one-third of the clubs were found to be drawing water illegally, while other breaches were linked to inadequate monitoring or reporting of water usage.
Despite the environmental risks posed by these infractions, none have resulted in prosecutions or fines. Amy Fairman, head of campaigns at the group River Action, criticized the lack of enforcement, calling the situation “absolutely unacceptable” and urging stronger monitoring and penalties for noncompliance.
These infractions occurred during periods that included droughts in 2022 and 2025, although the data does not cover the current drought crisis declared in 2026, which has affected over 70% of England. The country's record-breaking heatwaves have strained water resources, with several major reservoirs reporting exceptionally low levels and warnings issued about potential food shortages.
Water abstraction in England is regulated through licences that specify when, where, and how much water can be extracted from rivers, lakes, and underground sources. These licences, held by a variety of users including public water companies, farmers, and businesses such as golf clubs, also require regular monitoring and reporting of water use.
Experts warn that breaches of these licences have significant environmental consequences. Dr. Megan Klaar, an associate professor in hydroecology at the University of Leeds, noted that excessive water removal can lower water levels, increase temperatures, concentrate pollutants, and diminish habitats needed by aquatic species like fish.
The Environment Agency monitors licence compliance via inspections, satellite data, and remote assessments. When breaches are identified, responses can include advice, warning letters, fines, or prosecutions, though the latter options have not been pursued in the case of golf clubs.
Golf clubs rely on water to maintain and irrigate their courses, with about 1,735 clubs operating in England. Roughly one in twelve has been found in breach of water abstraction rules. Some clubs use their own abstraction licences, while others have faced criticism for using tap water during hosepipe bans imposed on residential areas.
Environmental advocates have called for changes in golf course management. Guy Shrubsole, an author and campaigner, described golf courses as wasteful consumers of scarce resources and suggested rewilding as a solution. Meanwhile, Fairman recommended that clubs invest in water retention features, such as small reservoirs or wetlands, to reduce demand on external sources.
England Golf, the national body representing clubs, said it offers guidance to assist clubs in managing water shortages. Its head of sustainability, Kirstin McEvoy, emphasized ongoing efforts to help clubs adopt sustainable water practices amid growing environmental pressures.
An Environment Agency spokesperson stressed the importance of compliance, stating that licence conditions are rigorously designed to protect ecosystems and are regularly reviewed. The agency expects all water abstractors, including golf clubs, to adhere fully to these regulations to safeguard England’s rivers and groundwater.