Spanish homeowners could be banned from filling their swimming pools
The swimming pool ban affects private pools which are filled up with safe drinking water
The drought management committee of the Junta de Andalucía recently made a decision regarding the filling of swimming pools in private homes in the southern region of Spain for the purposes of saving water.
Andalucía has had very little rain this winter, leading to water shortages and restrictions placed on water usage, such as water pressure being reduced at certain times, mainly at night.
The decision to restrict private homeowners' ability to fill up their pools in the region has been long-awaited and prompted by various sectors, particularly the Málaga Association of Property Administrators. It aims to address legal uncertainties and conflicts arising from contradictory regulations at regional and local levels. While the committee's decision prohibits the filling of private swimming pools with potable water this summer, exceptions are made for certain facilities.
Essentially, the prohibition is on filling private swimming pools with potable water. This was initially established in a 2021 regional decree, and will continue this summer.
Exceptions include health, educational and sports complexes, registered tourist accommodations, hotels and public swimming pools.
Privately owned saltwater pools with certified facilities and no discharge into the sewage system will be permitted.
The decision was unanimous and will be ratified through the publication of a new decree in the coming days.
Experts plan to re-evaluate the region's reservoirs and reserves after Easter to potentially adjust current savings measures.
Regular meetings will be held every two weeks to assess the situation and consider further measures.
The Junta's decision was applauded by various stakeholders, including users, town councils, irrigators, agricultural organisations and associations.
The clarification of rules provides much-needed legal certainty for municipalities and local companies. Efforts will continue to support measures aimed at mitigating the drought situation in the province.
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