Water Restrictions

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Water Restrictions

During periods of poor rainfall water restrictions may be imposed in certain dry areas. 

The government ecological department website has regularly updated data on the restrictions imposed on the communes of France. 

• For maps outlining the degree of restrictions in effect (sécheresse) see this page of ecologie.gouv.fr 

Map colours describe the dryness conditions which are describes by four categories: 

• Class 1 (white): Situation normal, no restrictions apply.
• Class 2 (pale yellow): Period of vigilance with some restrictions applying
• Class 3 (dark yellow): Serious situation limiting irrigation and use of mains water. 
• Class 4 (orange): Situation serious, exceptional drought and dryness with water restrictions usually prohibiting irrigation and limiting use of mains water.

Local restrictions

The departmental office of the Préfecture announces local restrictions. Generally these limit or prohibit use of domestic tap water to water gardens, wash cars or boats and fill swimming pools. Some restrictions on crop irrigation may also be imposed. 

Restrictions are usually applied to the use of all water, whether from private wells, bore holes, streams or from the piped water supply (although not re-cycled water).

Further Information

• See website Eau Poitou-Charentes (in French)
• For contact information of a local préfecture see AngloINFO's INFOrmation Page on French Administration