South West Water has announced the implementation of a Temporary Use Ban on water, commonly referred to as a hosepipe ban, effective from 3 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, until further notice. The restriction covers the company’s entire service area, which includes Devon, Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly, and parts of Dorset and Somerset.
The ban prohibits a range of activities involving the use of mains water, including watering gardens and plants, cleaning private vehicles, washing paths, patios, walls, windows, and other artificial surfaces, as well as filling or maintaining swimming pools, paddling pools, hot tubs, ponds, and ornamental fountains. The use of sprinklers, pressure washers, dripper hoses, and automatic irrigation systems connected to the public water supply is also restricted. Additionally, cleaning private leisure boats with mains water is banned.
Certain exceptions to the restrictions apply, primarily for water use related to animal welfare, health and safety, religious practices, and specific business operations. South West Water has outlined these exceptions and additional details surrounding the restrictions on its website, alongside information on the process for submitting representations against the ban by email or post.
The decision to impose the ban follows a period of prolonged dry weather, with significantly below-average rainfall and sustained high demand depleting water resources. South West Water cited the need to maintain a resilient and secure water supply for its customers as a critical factor in introducing the measures. The company’s actions align with the Environment Agency’s drought management framework and relevant drought response protocols.
Under Sections 76 and 76A-C of the Water Industry Act 1991, individuals found in breach of the restrictions may face a fine of up to £1,000 upon summary conviction. The water provider urges customers to adhere to the limitations to help mitigate the impact of the ongoing drought and ensure water availability for essential uses across the region.