Mexico bans water cutoffs for unpaid bills nationwide

Cancún. With the new General Water Law (LGA) approved in December 2025, Mexico can no longer completely suspend potable water supply due to non-payment by domestic users, as previously occurred in many places and in practice with concessionaires like Aguakan in Quintana Roo. The new law in force clearly establishes that operating agencies cannot completely cut off service for debts, and in any case must guarantee a minimum indispensable supply to cover basic human consumption needs (such as drinking, cooking, and hygiene) even if there are pending debts.

What does the new General Water Law say?

Article 9 of the LGA states that the Mexican State must safeguard the human right to water, and that operating agencies cannot completely suspend potable water supply or sanitation service due to non-payment by domestic users. Instead of total cutoffs, the law mandates always supplying a minimum amount for basic human consumption.

What does this mean in practice?

Under this mandate, a family that has gone several months without payment cannot be left completely without water, even if they continue to have debts. The company or entity providing the service can seek collection mechanisms, establish agreements, or set limits on non-essential use, but cannot leave the family without the minimum amount of water necessary to live with dignity.

The approach prioritizes the human right to water and the guarantee of a basic supply, and obliges operators and concessionaires to reconsider collection policies without affecting that vital minimum.

Does this apply throughout Quintana Roo?

Yes. Because the LGA is a federal law that must be applied throughout the national territory, and states and municipalities—including Quintana Roo—have the obligation to harmonize their state and municipal norms with this federal law. In practice, although Aguakan or any operating agency continues collecting payment for the service, they cannot completely cut off water in homes for debts, and must always guarantee a minimum supply in accordance with the human right to water.