The Importance of Responsible Water Use at Golf Clubs Amid England’s Growing Drought Challenge

Water is becoming one of the defining sustainability issues for golf in England. With prolonged dry spells, rising temperatures, and increasing pressure on national water supplies, golf clubs are facing both regulatory requirements and a moral responsibility to manage water with care.

As of 10 August, around 71% of England is experiencing drought conditions, according to BBC News, and many clubs are already operating under Temporary Use Bans (TUBs or hosepipe bans) that restrict how mains water can be used on the course.

This moment demands clarity, leadership, and action. Golf has an opportunity—not just an obligation—to demonstrate how sport can adapt responsibly to environmental pressures while protecting the playing surfaces that are essential to the game.

Understanding the Rules: What Drought Restrictions Mean for Golf Courses

Temporary Use Bans (often referred to as hosepipe bans) do apply to golf courses. Under a TUB, restrictions cover sporting grounds, recreational facilities, and golf courses, limiting the use of mains potable water to only the most essential playing areas.

Permitted use of mains water under a TUB:

- Yes – Greens

- Yes – Teeing areas

Not permitted:

- Fairways

- Approaches

- Rough

- Ornamental grass around the clubhouse

- Landscaping and decorative planting

The wording may vary slightly by water company, but the principle is consistent: mains water must be used sparingly and only where absolutely necessary. Clubs should check their local supplier’s guidance regularly, as restrictions can change quickly.

While England currently has no active Non Essential Use Bans (NEUBs), these tighter restrictions are being considered in some regions. Clubs should prepare now for the possibility of further limitations. BIGGA has also urged clubs to stay in close contact with their water suppliers and prepare for disruption, reinforcing the need for proactive planning.

A National Shift: Legally Binding Water Reduction Targets

The pressure on water resources is not only seasonal—it is structural. Under The Environmental Targets (Water) (England) Regulations 2023, England has legally binding national water targets designed to reduce pressure on public supply.

Key targets include:

- 20% reduction in water put into public supply by 2038

- 9% reduction in total business water consumption by 2038

- 15% reduction by 2050

Golf clubs, as part of the wider business community, must play their part in meeting these targets. Reducing reliance on mains water and investing in alternative sources is no longer optional—it is a regulatory expectation.

Golf’s Response: Building Water Resilience for the Future

England Golf has placed water at the heart of its Sustainability Drive 2025–2030, identifying it as one of three priority areas for the sport. The plan outlines commitments for:

- England Golf as an organisation

- Golf clubs and facilities

- Golfers and volunteers

The shared goal is clear: to move the sport towards long term water resilience.

Earlier this year, England Golf published its Water Security Toolkit, a practical resource designed to help clubs assess their current water use, plan for future restrictions, and explore alternative water sources such as boreholes, reservoirs, and rainwater harvesting.

Clubs are encouraged to use the toolkit as a starting point for building a more secure and sustainable water strategy. The R&A’s Golf Course Water 2030 initiative provides further guidance, case studies, and examples of innovation from across the UK and beyond.

The R&A has recently urged clubs to make full use of the GC2030 Water Portal, particularly in light of the current drought conditions. Their latest communications highlight the urgency of adopting more resilient water practices and can be accessed via Randa.org and LinkedIn.

Supporting Clubs and Golfers Through Change

England Golf continues to work closely with the Environment Agency, water companies, BIGGA, and other partners to ensure clubs receive clear, timely guidance.

While some Environment Agency specifics are still awaiting sign off, clubs can already act on the core principles:

- Use mains water only where permitted

- Reduce consumption wherever possible

- Plan for alternative water sources

- Communicate clearly with golfers about course conditions and restrictions

England Golf’s recent social media communications have also helped golfers understand why courses may look different during drought periods—and why responsible water use is essential for the long term health of the game.

A Collective Responsibility

Water security is not just a challenge for greenkeepers or club managers. It is a shared responsibility across the entire golf community. Every club, every golfer, and every governing body has a role to play in protecting this vital resource.

By embracing water smart practices, investing in resilient infrastructure, and staying informed about evolving regulations, golf can continue to thrive—even in a future where water becomes increasingly scarce.

The drought is a reminder that sustainability is not a distant concept. It is here, now, shaping the way golf must operate. With the right planning and commitment, clubs can safeguard both their courses and the environment for generations to come.