More than 20 million households are currently under a hosepipe ban, with water companies able to fine people up to £1,000 for violating it — here’s what you can legally do to keep your garden alive
14:18, 03 Aug 2026Updated 13:52, 05 Aug 2026
Millions of households are under a hosepipe ban(Image: Laurence Berger via Getty Images)
A drought has officially been declared across seven regions of the UK following the hot, dry conditions that have dominated the country throughout the summer months. Alongside this declaration, numerous areas are also subject to a hosepipe ban aimed at conserving water supplies.
More than 20 million households are currently affected by the ban, with water companies empowered to issue fines of up to £1,000 for breaching it.
Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency and chair of the National Drought Group, said: “The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it.
“A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife, and the economy.”
If your garden is looking worse for wear this is how to save it(Image: Getty)
The seven sections of the UK currently in drought are:East AngliaHertfordshire and all of LondonThames ValleyHampshire and the Isle of WightDevon and CornwallThe West MidlandsWessex (Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and south Gloucestershire)The water authorities currently under hosepipe bans are:Affinity WaterAnglian WaterCambridge WaterSouthern WaterSouth East WaterThames Water
If your household is among the millions affected by a hosepipe ban, you may be concerned about maintaining your garden — but there are legitimate ways to keep your outdoor space thriving and green without resorting to a hosepipe.
The initial step is to verify with your water provider which exemptions apply, and ensure you understand precisely what activities are allowed.
You can be fined up to £1000 for violating the ban(Image: Getty)
How to water the garden during a hosepipe ban
The most straightforward method for keeping your garden hydrated during a hosepipe ban is to use a watering can filled directly from the tap.
While this approach may require a bit more effort and time, it will enable you to maintain your garden throughout the prolonged, hot summer period.
An alternative is to install an irrigation system equipped with a pressure-reducing valve and a timer. You may also use a hose that isn’t connected to the mains supply — for instance, if your hose draws from grey water.
Grey water refers to the water remaining from washing clothes, or rainwater collected in a water butt.
Harvesting rainwater is also perfectly acceptable — if rain is predicted in your area, place some containers outside to capture the rainfall and store it for the next occasion you need to water the garden.