Wessex Water is introducing a hosepipe ban in Wiltshire after months of hot and dry weather put increasing pressure on water supplies.
The restrictions will come into force at 12.01am on Tuesday (18 August) and will apply to all three million customers supplied with water by the company.
Wessex Water said demand is currently 30% higher than average following repeated heatwaves and lower-than-average rainfall.
The company said there is more hot weather expected and no significant rainfall forecast for the coming weeks.
It is the first time water restrictions have been introduced in the Wessex Water region for 50 years.
Thames Water has already put a ban in place – meaning the majority of Wiltshire is now covered by hosepipe restrictions.
The Temporary Use Ban will prevent customers from using hosepipes for a range of non-essential activities.
This includes watering gardens, lawns, flowers and plants, filling or maintaining paddling and swimming pools, and washing private vehicles.
Customers will also be unable to use hosepipes to clean patios, paths, driveways, walls and windows, fill ornamental ponds or fountains, or clean other outdoor surfaces.
Some exemptions will apply, including where reasonable adjustments are required because of a health condition or disability.
Hosepipe use for health and safety needs, animal welfare and some business services and activities will also be exempt.
Wessex Water has not confirmed when the restrictions will end.
The company said it will continue monitoring reservoir levels, river flows, groundwater levels and demand before lifting the ban when conditions allow.
Ruth Jefferson, Chief Executive of Wessex Water, said: “We understand this may be frustrating and appreciate the impact it may have on you.
“We would like to thank you for using water wisely throughout the summer and for your understanding, support and cooperation.”
Further information about the restrictions and exemptions is available at www.wessexwater.co.uk/hosepipe-ban.
