Hosepipe Ban
Hosepipe Ban
The hosepipe ban is a restriction that has been put into force on the Isle of man from Friday the 29th July. What does this mean? It means anyone caught using their hosepipe during this ban will receive a fine.
Why has this ban come into place?
Due to the extreme heat we faced last month alongside there being very little rainfall, it can potentially cause a drought in England, especially if this hot weather continues into August. Therefore, people are being urged to use their water wisely.
From Friday 5th of August – Southern Water customers in Hampshire and the Isle of wight will also be banned from using a hosepipe under what is known as a ‘Temporary Use Ban’.
What are the rules surrounding the hosepipe ban?
Households cannot use a hosepipe in the following situations:
- Watering the garden
- Cleaning your car
- Watering plants, either domestic or at other non-commercial premises
- Cleaning a boat
- Filling or maintaining a domestic swimming or paddling pool
- Drawing water
- Filling or maintaining a domestic pond
- Filling or maintaining an ornamental fountain
- Cleaning walls / windows
- Cleaning paths or patios
- Cleaning other artificial outdoor surfaces
Are there any exceptions?
People may still be able to use their hosepipe under exceptional circumstance.
People can use hoses for health and safety reasons for example:
- Blue badge holder who has an approved drip or trickle irrigation system fitted with a pressure reducing valve / timer are permitted to continue using their hosepipe.
What happens if you get caught?
Utility companies can set their own terms and conditions for prosecution against you for using a hosepipe. However, people can face a fine up to £2,000 if they continue to ignore the rules.
People should check with their water company to verify if they are facing the hosepipe ban, as each company will have a different policy. Companies expect customers to report if they see excessive hosepipe use.
Are other companies joining the implementation of the hosepipe ban?
Bournemouth water – (Supplies to parts of Dorset and Hampshire) currently has no plans to implement a hosepipe ban.
Portsmouth water – previously stated to customers to use their water wisely, they have not implemented a ban on particular usage.
Southeast water and Thames water – both have previously appealed to households to be aware of their water usage and not use in excess. They have ruled out any bans for now.
Wessex water – (supplies to Wiltshire and Southwest) they have issued assurances that the hosepipe ban is not imminent.