Uisce Éireann has announced that its Water Conservation Order is being expanded to every county until Wednesday 26 August 2026.

The move builds on an existing order already in force for Dublin, South Tipperary and parts of Kildare, Meath, Wexford and Wicklow.

The utility said the measure is intended to protect public water supplies for homes, businesses, farms, hospitals, vulnerable customers and essential services now and over the coming weeks. Exceptionally high demand, driven by ongoing hot conditions and limited rainfall, is straining raw water sources and treated drinking water supplies. Uisce Éireann is maximising production, repairing leaks, tankering water and operating the network to minimise outages and safeguard supply.

Raw water sources in many areas are under increasing stress after a prolonged spell of hot, dry weather. Met Éireann’s extended-range forecast points to above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall ahead. Several groundwater sources are showing reduced or no yields, while parts of the Greater Dublin Area and popular coastal destinations remain under pressure as usage outstrips production capacity.

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Night-time restrictions are currently in place on 53 of 700 water supplies, mainly where local sources are stressed. Extending the Water Conservation Order nationwide is intended to curb non-essential consumption, ease pressure on sources and protect supplies for essential purposes.

Under the Order, the use of a hosepipe or similar device is prohibited for activities including watering a garden; cleaning a private motor vehicle; cleaning a private leisure boat; filling or maintaining a domestic swimming or paddling pool; filling or maintaining a domestic pond (excluding fish ponds); and filling or maintaining an ornamental fountain, except where required for commercial purposes.

Customers are urged to take simple steps to save water at home, such as taking shorter showers, fixing leaks and leaking toilets, and avoiding hosepipes or sprinklers in the garden. Using a garden hose or sprinkler for just one hour can consume more water than the average family uses in a full day.

The nationwide Order applies to all public water supplies during the specified period. Uisce Éireann’s customer care team remains available for queries.