Water Restrictions, what you need to know
29 June 2023
As part of the drought alert currently in force in the Alpes-Maritimes, over the coming months the French government will be monitoring compliance with water restriction measures at ports in the Alpes-Maritimes département.
We’ll tell you more below, and encourage you to read carefully the Doctrine of water restriction measures in ports drawn up by the government, available on our website and from harbour master’s offices.
Over the coming months, the French government will be monitoring compliance with water restriction measures at ports in the Alpes-Maritimes department. We therefore encourage you to read the information below and to read carefully the Doctrine on water restriction measures in ports, drawn up by the government services and available on our website and in harbour master’s offices.
The government’s drought action plan comprises three levels: Alert, Reinforced Alert and Crisis. From the crisis stage onwards, no use of water will be authorised.
Washing a vessel or watercraft
The current state of alert prohibits the washing of nautical equipment except for nautical professionals using high-pressure equipment and a water recycling system. Professionals who do not currently meet these two conditions can turn to alternative solutions: washing or rinsing with seawater, dry washing and/or rinsing, or using a desaliniser.
By way of derogation, we can confirm that rinsing the engines (provided that the volume of fresh water used is kept to a minimum) and cleaning with a bucket and rag/mop are tolerated for safety or health reasons. Any such cleaning must be declared to our staff at the harbour office reception desk.
Washing for sanitary reasons :
– interior living areas (e.g. sanitary facilities, galley, etc.) ;
– outside areas in the case of fishing boats or in the event of soiling that could compromise the hygiene or safety of passengers. (Droppings for example)
Condition on the origin of the water
In addition, it is specified that the use of desalinated water from sea water is not
affected by the restriction measures, provided that the user of the desalinated water is able to
is able to demonstrate, immediately upon inspection by the water police, that the water used is derived exclusively from a seawater desalination process.
If there is no justification or guarantee as to the origin of the water (e.g. single tank
mixing fresh water and desalinated water on board a large unit, a tank that is inaccessible during the
inspection, etc.), the water used will be subject to the restrictions on use in force.
If you fail to comply with this order, you will be liable to a 5th class fine of €1,500, increased to €3,000 in the event of a repeat offence.
If you have any questions, please visit the Préfecture’s website or contact their team at ddtm-secheresse@alpes-maritimes.fr .