Polish municipalities tighten water‑use rules and penalties

Local authorities in Poland are cracking down on illegal water use. In the Gmina Wielkie Oczy, extracting water from fire hydrants is classified as theft and can carry fines of up to 5,000 zł, because unauthorized connections risk compromising fire‑fighting capacity, contaminating the supply and lowering pressure for households and public services.

Across many Polish gminas, temporary bans on non‑essential water consumption have been introduced due to drought and high demand. Restrictions may cover garden and lawn irrigation, filling pools, and washing cars with tap water. Violations are punishable under the law on offences, with fines also reaching 5,000 zł. Residents are urged to check local notices and use alternatives such as rainwater where permitted.