Can You Still Wash Your Car During the Hosepipe Ban? Here’s What Drivers in the North Need to Know

Can You Still Wash Your Car During the Hosepipe Ban? Here’s What Drivers in the North Need to Know

With hosepipe bans being introduced across Yorkshire, Derbyshire, and much of the North, many drivers are wondering if they can still wash their cars legally this summer. The answer? Yes, but not at home.

At Lucid PPF, we’ve got you covered. Here’s what the hosepipe ban means for car care and how we’re still able to offer professional cleaning and protection while staying 100% compliant.

What Is the Hosepipe Ban and Where Does It Apply?

Yorkshire Water and other suppliers have introduced a Temporary Use Ban (TUB) due to low reservoir levels and drought. This means residential hosepipe use is restricted, including:

• Watering gardens
• Cleaning patios and driveways
• Filling pools
• Washing vehicles at home

Breaking the ban can mean a fine of up to £1,000, so it’s not worth the risk.

Can You Still Wash Your Car?

Yes, if it’s done professionally. Businesses like Lucid PPF can continue operating because we:

• Use professional-grade water-efficient equipment
• Operate under commercial exemptions
• Follow strict water-saving practices

That means you can keep your car looking its best without worrying about fines or breaking the rules.

Can I Use a Jet Wash or Pressure Washer at Home?

This is where most people get caught out. Most pressure washers connect to your outdoor tap, which uses mains water, so they fall under the same ban as hosepipes. Unless your jet wash runs from a water butt or non-mains supply (which most don't), using one at home still breaks the rules.
The bottom line: if your pressure washer plugs into a garden tap, you can't legally use it during a hosepipe ban.

Why This Matters for Your Car’s Paintwork

During a hosepipe ban, many drivers stop washing their cars completely, which can lead to:

• Pollen, bird droppings, and brake dust building up
• Staining or etching on unprotected paint
• Long-term damage to resale value

If you have PPF or ceramic coating, it’s even more important to maintain regular cleaning to keep your finish looking its best.

How Lucid PPF Can Help

We’re based in the North West and specialise in:

• Safe, compliant exterior cleans
• Paint Protection Film (PPF) installs
• Optional interior protection for leather, vinyl, and plastics
• Long-lasting protection to reduce the need for frequent washing

Our cleaning systems are water-efficient and pro-grade, so you keep your car spotless without risking fines.

Current Offer: Full Exterior Safe Wash inc. Wheels - £45.00

To support drivers during the ban, we’re offering a Full Exterior Safe Wash (inc. wheels) for just £45.00. Sit and have a coffee with us or work from our office while we give your car special treatment for an hour.
Full valets also available. Offer ends soon.

Hosepipe Ban FAQ

Can I wash my car at home during a hosepipe ban?
No, washing your car at home using a hosepipe or pressure washer connected to a mains tap is not allowed during the ban.

Can professionals like Lucid PPF still wash cars?
Yes, professional car care businesses are exempt from the ban, provided they follow commercial guidelines and water-saving practices.

Is it safe for my PPF or ceramic coating if I skip washes?
No, letting dirt and contaminants build up can harm your paint and coatings. Regular safe cleaning keeps your protection working its best.

Ask Us About Safe Car Cleaning