SWA Detects 1,500+ Violations, 33% Unauthorized Connections

The Saudi Water Authority (SWA) has carried out intensive field inspection campaigns across various regions of the Kingdom through its accredited enforcement officers, resulting in the detection of more than 1,500 violations of the Water Law. Unauthorized connections to water and wastewater networks accounted for approximately 33% of the recorded violations.

The SWA stated that these efforts are part of its ongoing commitment to enforcing compliance with the Water Law, protecting water and wastewater networks, ensuring service sustainability and quality, and preserving water resources by preventing waste. The Authority, through the Committee for Reviewing and Adjudicating Violations of the Provisions of the Water Law Related to the Authority’s Jurisdiction, has issued a number of financial penalties during the first quarter of 2025.

The violations included unauthorized connections to water or wastewater networks, tampering with meters of licensed service providers, water leakage beyond the boundaries of public or private properties or from tankers, failure of establishments to install grease and oil traps, encroachments on main or branch water or sewage lines, and engaging in water service activities without the required license from the Authority.

The Authority stressed that unauthorized connections are not merely a breach of public property but pose a serious risk to the integrity of the networks and negatively impact service stability and quality for legitimate users. These actions can also lead to technical imbalances that increase the likelihood of unexpected failures.

It confirmed the continuation of its inspection efforts and the enforcement of legal measures against violators, emphasizing the importance of individuals and establishments adhering to regulations and submitting service requests through official channels.

The SWA concluded by reiterating that protecting water and wastewater networks and preventing water waste is a national responsibility that requires awareness, compliance, and collaboration from all members of society to ensure the sustainability and quality of services.