Need to knowThe ban impacts those across Mid Devon and parts of East Devon – although South West Water is encouraging everyone across the region to use water wisely
16:51, 13 Jul 2026Updated 16:52, 13 Jul 2026
A hosepipe ban comes into force for parts of Devon on Tuesday, July 14(Image: Getty)
Key details as South West Water introduces hosepipe ban in parts of Devon:Ban Introduction: South West Water has announced temporary hosepipe restrictions across Mid Devon and parts of East Devon to combat sudden water shortages. While the official ban takes effect at midday on Tuesday, July 14, residents are urged to comply immediately to help safeguard supplies.Affected Areas: The restrictions specifically impact several regional towns and villages, including Tiverton, Cullompton, Bampton, and Honiton. Other covered locations facing the ban include South Molton, Dunkeswell, Axminster, and bordering Dorset town, Lyme Regis.The Core Cause: This emergency measure follows two extreme heatwaves occurring over the last three weeks, which have caused water demand to skyrocket. This sustained period of hot, dry weather has put tremendous strain on the local drinking water network.Surging Water Demand: The intense heat has driven up daily regional water usage by an additional 5.4 million litres. This massive spike represents an exceptionally high volume that threatens to outpace what the system can reliably deliver.Prohibited Activities: Under the new rules, customers are strictly banned from using hosepipes to water their gardens or fill up swimming and paddling pools. The restriction also prevents people from using hoses to wash vehicles, boats, and outdoor patios.Utility Company Response: In response to the crisis, water utility teams have been monitoring and staffing treatment plants 24 hours a day for over three weeks. They are also actively tankering water from less affected regions and boosting resources to repair leaks.Weather Context: This announcement comes as the Met Office reports that UK temperatures hit 35°C or higher across May, June, and July for the first time on record. Forecasters expect these intense heatwave conditions to persist well into the coming week.Looking Forward: South West Water will monitor local demand levels every single day to decide when the restrictions can safely be lifted. The ban will remain in place until water usage returns to normal and the local supply network fully recovers.