During hot spells in summer, some areas in the UK will be low on water, and the water companies in the affected areas will impose a hosepipe ban. So what is a hosepipe ban then - what does it mean?

The legislation behind hosepipe bans was put in place in 1945, and is directed on domestic users, to stop them from watering their gardens or wash their cars using a hosepipe. The aim is to stop these high useage activities to preserve water supplies and take the pressure of the water companies during peak periods.

So how does this apply to us as allotmenteers? Well - some UK water companies (like Thames Water) - class allotment plots as private gardens, to which the ban applies, while other water companies don’t. Hence allotmenteers in those areas will remain unaffected.

With the law being over 60 years old - some confusion has risen as to what you can or can’t do during a ban. According to the current law….

You’re NOT allowed to:

• Use a hose to water your lawn or plants
• Use a hose to water your vegetable plot
• Use any watering system connected to the mains
• Use a hose to wash your car or van

What you CAN do is:

• Use a hose or jet wash to clean a patio area, driveway or your garden furniture
• Use a watering can
• Use a bucket to wash your car or van
• Fill a swimming pool or pond

Double standards? Could be! But until further notice these are the rules that applies.

So how can you check if your area is under a hosepipe ban? The local media will more than likely tell you. Failing that - you can check the website of your local water company - who will also tell you about how the rules apply to you.

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