Tampa Bay area residents who want to water their lawns more frequently will have to wait at least six months longer.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) voted this week to extend its “Phase III” water shortage restrictions through March 31, 2027. The order had been set to expire on Oct. 1.
SWFWMD says the 12-month rainfall deficit through August 2026 is 15.4 inches. Officials say water levels in lakes, rivers, and aquifers remain “very low,” despite a recent increase in rainfall across the region.
Unless your city already has stricter hours in effect, residents may only water their lawns on their assigned days between 12:01 a.m. and 4 a.m. or between 8 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.
The restrictions apply to anyone living in: Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter counties, as well as portions of Charlotte, Highlands and Lake counties and the city of Dunnellon.
Your assigned watering day depends on your address, typically based on the last digit of your house number unless otherwise designated by your city or county.
If your address ends in:
0 or 1, water only on Monday
2 or 3, water only on Tuesday
4 or 5, water only on Wednesday
6 or 7, water only on Thursday
8 or 9, water only on Friday
Other restrictions under the order include:
Car washing: Only allowed on your assigned watering day — and you must use a hose with a shutoff nozzle
Fountains: Limited to four hours per day
Restaurants: Will only serve water upon request
Pressure washing: Only allowed in preparation for painting and sealing
HOAs may not enforce community standards requiring an increase in water use
People who violate water restrictions could face fines starting at $100 for the first violation.