The water shortage prevailing due to drought and low groundwater levels in several parts of the country has led to some municipalities introducing watering bans. Those who defy the ban risk being reported.
However, the willingness to report varies across the country, shows a survey by P4 Gotland, which has been in contact with 14 municipalities that have had or have had watering bans in recent weeks.
While some municipalities and regions have only received a few reports, Gotland stands out, with 34 out of a total of 44 reports in the past five years.
When a report is received, the first step is to inform the property owner that a watering ban is in place.
For those who still ignore the ban, the region or municipality has the right to shut off the water, something that has not yet occurred in the 14 municipalities that P4 has been in contact with.
When we come to talk about what sanctions we have, it usually resolves itself. We have not shut off the water for anyone, says Susanne Bjergegaard Pettersson, water manager at Region Gotland, to the radio.
The most common type of reports concerns sprinklers or someone filling their pool.
Some municipalities that, in addition to Gotland, have introduced watering bans earlier this year are Mörbylånga, Vimmerby, Emmaboda, Kalmar, and Kristianstad.
Watering bans mean that drinking water may only be used for personal hygiene, food, and drink.
