Manchester Evening News
·Aug 2026
How to Water Your Garden Legally During a UK Hosepipe Ban
A drought has been declared in seven UK regions, while hosepipe bans affect more than 20 million households and may carry fines of up to £1,000. Gardeners can legally use tap-filled watering cans, controlled irrigation systems, grey water, and collected rainwater, subject to their water provider’s exemptions. Greater Manchester is not currently under restrictions, although United Utilities is urging residents to use water wisely amid record demand.