Thames Water has implemented a hosepipe ban affecting over 10 million customers, joining other suppliers in restricting the use of hosepipes for various activities like gardening and car washing. Violating the ban could result in fines of up to £1,000. However, there are exceptions to the ban, including for customers who receive water services from sources other than Thames Water. Specific exemptions are outlined for health and safety needs, animal welfare, business purposes, food crop irrigation, and certain tree watering scenarios.
Customers on priority services registers, special tariffs, and Blue Badge holders can still use hosepipes if medical reasons prevent them from using alternative methods like watering cans. Similar exemptions exist for newly laid turf and specific scenarios where using a hosepipe is deemed necessary for human or animal well-being. Watering outside peak hours, utilizing recycled water storage systems, and certain agricultural activities are also permitted during the ban.
Different water suppliers have their own sets of exemptions, but in general, hosepipes connected to water butts, watering newly planted items, and situations where health or safety is at risk are allowed under the restrictions. Swimming pools may not be filled except in specific circumstances like religious ceremonies. Opting out of data sharing is possible through browser settings, and continued use of services implies acceptance of cookie usage and privacy practices.
