TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa water violations have increased nearly 30% compared with last year as drought conditions persist, prompting expanded enforcement and conservation programs.
Tampa held a press conference on May 26 to update enforcement efforts.
“We are in a drought now that literally threatens the amount of drinking water we have available,” Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said.
Even with water restrictions in place for the city, Mayor Castor said water use has increased in the last month.
Watch the press conference with City of Tampa officials:
Tampa officials hold press conference as water violations
The city of Tampa said the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Modified Phase III Water Restrictions limit automatic irrigation to one day per week during designated hours. Since Dec. 1, 2025, more than 430 customers have received citations, many in high-use areas where monthly water consumption exceeds 10,000 gallons.
City of Tampa
Fines for violating restrictions start at $100. To help residents comply, the Tampa Water Department offers free one-on-one irrigation evaluations, waived reclaimed water connection fees through the end of 2026, Florida-Friendly Landscaping assistance, and free water-saving devices. Customers who complete irrigation evaluations save an average of 5,000 gallons monthly.
The department plans to increase outreach in high-use areas and encourages residents to use water wisely. For questions, residents can contact the Conservation and Efficiency Team at (813) 274-8121 (Option 5) or email SaveWater@tampa.gov.
Tampa Water Department
Father of deputy killed in murder-suicide and abuse survivor unite to fight officer-perpetrated violence
Four years after Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy Abigail Bieber was shot and killed by her boyfriend, Daniel Leyden — a fellow law enforcement officer — her father, Bruce Bieber, and a woman who survived abuse at the hands of the same man, Chynna Ratner, are now working together to prevent officer-perpetrated domestic violence.
Father and survivor partner to fight officer domestic violence