LNTM 24-26 – Hosepipe Ban – CORRECTION

CORRECTION – the ban comes into force from 8/8/26

A Southwest Water hosepipe ban will come into force from 8/8/2026 covering the whole of Devon, including the whole of Dart Harbour.  This means that it is not permitted to use a hosepipe to clean a private leisure boat.  This includes use of pressure washers, including on our scrubbing grids.

Use of hoses to fill potable (drinking) water tanks onboard boats is still allowed.

Commercial boat owners and businesses carrying out boat cleaning services have exemptions – these can be seen on the SWW website below, but these businesses should still minimise water use where possible.

When moving a small boat between the Dart and other locations, it is important to clean the hull with fresh water to avoid transfer of invasive species.  During this drought period, we would ask you to do this using a bucket and sponge or similar method to minimise use of water.

All river users – both leisure and commercial – are asked to keep use of water to a minimum, to ensure that taps are properly turned off, and also to report any leaks to us.

Further details can be found on the South West Water website

Drought conditions are a particular issue on the Dart, as it leads to too much water being taken from the upper reaches, which impacts wildlife all the way down into the estuary, so it is very important for the health of the river that we all love that we all take care to minimise water use onboard and at home, frustrating as it is.  We thank you in advance for your help.

Paul Britton

Harbour Master & CEO