South East Water announces hosepipe ban for parts of Sussex
South East Water is asking customers across Kent and Sussex to stop using hosepipes and sprinklers with immediate effect
Last updated 11th Jul 2025
South East Water is asking customers across Kent and Sussex to stop using hosepipes and sprinklers from today, due to very high demand and continued dry weather.
The hosepipe ban will not officially be enforced until 18 July but the company is urging customers to start following the rules now to help protect water supplies.
More details about the restrictions will be shared during the week starting 14 July.
The ban has come after the region experienced its driest spring since 1893, and demand for water reached record levels.
On 30 June, the company supplied 680 million litres of water, over 100 million litres more than normal for the time of year.
Despite efforts to fix leaks and reduce usage, water levels in reservoirs and underground sources remain very low and if action isn’t taken now, there’s a risk of supply issues for many homes.
South East Water says it will lift the restrictions once water demand and supply return to safer levels.
You can find updates and advice on saving water at southeastwater.co.uk.