15/07/2026
💧 What can you still water with a hosepipe?
The Anglian Water hosepipe ban has caused plenty of confusion, but there are some important exceptions.
🍅 Food crops
Tomatoes, potatoes, vegetables, fruit and food-producing trees may be watered with a hosepipe where using a watering can is not reasonably practical.
🌳 Recently planted trees and hedging
Trees, saplings, whips and hedging planted within the last three years may be watered with a hosepipe where a watering can or stored rainwater is not a practical alternative.
♿ Health and disability exceptions
People who cannot safely use a watering can or bucket because of a health condition, disability or additional support need may be able to use a hosepipe. A Blue Badge alone does not automatically qualify someone.
🌸 Bedding plants and ornamental shrubs
Bedding plants, perennials and most ornamental shrubs are not automatically exempt simply because they have recently been planted. These should normally be watered using a watering can, bucket, stored rainwater or qualifying drip-irrigation system.
Swipe through our simple guide and please share it with anyone who might find it useful. 🍒
⚠️ This post is provided as general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Restrictions and exceptions can change, and individual circumstances may differ. Always check the latest official guidance directly with Anglian Water before using a hosepipe.
