This summer, widespread hosepipe bans—formally known as Temporary Use Bans (TUBs)—have been introduced across parts of the UK due to prolonged dry weather and increased pressure on water supplies. With some of the driest conditions recorded in decades, water companies have been forced to take action to protect essential resources.
Affected areas include:
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Yorkshire (Yorkshire Water, from 11 July)
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Kent and Sussex (South East Water, from 18 July)
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Parts of Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and Berkshire (Thames Water, from 22 July)
Under these bans, the use of hosepipes for non-essential tasks—such as watering gardens, washing vehicles, or filling paddling pools—is restricted, with penalties of up to £1,000 for non-compliance.
Animal Welfare Exceptions
Importantly, these restrictions come with clear exemptions for animal welfare. Hosepipe use is permitted when necessary to safeguard the health and wellbeing of animals, including:
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Filling or maintaining drinking water troughs
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Washing horses for welfare reasons (e.g. overheating, medical treatment)
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Maintaining hygiene in stables and shelters
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Essential care in livery, farm, or professional animal settings
These exceptions ensure that while water is conserved, animal health and safety are not compromised. However, water companies stress that permitted use must still be as efficient and limited as possible.
What This Means for Livery Yards
For livery yards and equine professionals, these bans are a timely reminder of the need for responsible water use. While horse welfare will always take priority, it’s important that yards and their clients work together to reduce unnecessary water consumption.
Yard owners and managers should ensure all staff and clients are aware of what is and isn’t allowed under current restrictions. This is also an opportunity to promote sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the wider community.
Practical Steps to Reduce Water Use
1. Use Water Only Where Essential
Limit hose use strictly to welfare-critical activities. Use buckets or watering cans where possible and avoid routine washing of yards, vehicles, or surfaces.
2. Collect and Reuse Water
Install water butts to collect rainwater for non-potable uses. Greywater (e.g. from clean rinsing) can also be used where appropriate.
3. Maintain Efficient Infrastructure
Regularly check taps, troughs, and pipes for leaks. Small drips can waste hundreds of litres over time.
4. Educate and Involve Clients
Encourage liveries to be mindful of their water use and provide clear guidelines. Posters, signs, or yard meetings can help reinforce good habits.
5. Adjust Yard Routines
Minimise arena watering, consider dust control alternatives, and avoid watering grass or non-essential landscaping during drought periods.
A Shared Responsibility
Hosepipe bans are a necessary response to increasing climate pressure on our water systems. While there are valid exceptions for animal welfare, it’s vital that the equestrian community does its part to use water wisely.
By working together—yards, staff, and clients—we can maintain high standards of care while protecting the environment and ensuring long-term water security.
For up-to-date information on bans and exemptions, visit your local water provider’s website or the UK Government’s drought advisory pages.