2025 Hosepipe Ban Advice for Pond Keepers

2025 Hosepipe Ban: Current Situation (16/07/2025)

Due to a combination of the driest spring in over 50 years, record-breaking June heat, and low reservoir levels some water authorities have introduced water Conservation Measures, often referred to as a "Hosepipe Ban". The Environment Agency has also declared drought status in several regions.

• Yorkshire Water - Restrictions from 11th July 2025
  Details Page: https://www.yorkshirewater.com/your-water/is-there-a-hosepipe-ban
  Fish and Animal Policy : https://www.yorkshirewater.com/your-water/is-there-a-hosepipe-ban/#animals
  
  
• South East Water - Restrictions from 18th July 2025
  Details Page: https://www.southeastwater.co.uk/about/updates/tubs-25/
  Policy Exemptions: https://www.southeastwater.co.uk/about/updates/tubs-25/#exemptions
  
  
• Southern Water - Restrictions from 21st July 2025
  Details Page: https://www.southernwater.co.uk/help-and-support/temporary-use-ban-advice/
  Exemptions : https://www.southernwater.co.uk/help-and-support/hosepipe-ban-exemptions/
  
  
• Thames Water - Restrictions Start 22nd July 2025
  Details & Policy FAQ's Page: https://www.thameswater.co.uk/help/water-supply-and-drought-update/hosepipe-ban-faqs

What about Fish Ponds ?

The simple answer is that although you may have seen or heard that you can not use a hosepipe in an existing pond, this dose not apply if your pond or water feature contains fish or other aquatic animals

Generally you are allowed to use a hosepipe to fill or maintain a domestic pond / ornamental fountain where it is necessary to maintain the welfare of fish.

Although this is great news for looking after your pond, what about the rest of the garden? Although each of the water authorities have their own rules. The basic advice is if at all possible you should use what is called "grey water". This is water that has been captured or collected after it's initial use. For example you could collect rain water in water butts, or you could store pond water that has been removed for a partial water change (although this should only be done to maintain water quality to ensure fish health).

If you are really unable to use "grey water", most of the water authorities will allow the use of watering can for the garden, bout these must be filled from a tap NOT a hosepipe.

But remember if you are not sure if your water usage is allowed under the hosepipe ban, you should always CHECK as the maximum fine for breaking the ban is £1000.