City of St. Petersburg Urges Residents to Conserve Water and Follow Irrigation Schedules Amid Drought Alert
Dec. 1, 2025 – Due to current conditions, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has issued a Phase 1 Water Shortage Order that includes the City of St. Petersburg. Order number SWF 25-015 goes into effect on Monday, December 1. This Order comes after significantly below-normal rainfall and declining water resource levels. It applies to properties using potable, private well or surface water sources for watering.
As seasonal dry conditions place added demand on regional water supplies, the City of St. Petersburg is reminding residents to conserve water and follow the year-round irrigation schedule. Water restrictions remain in effect across the region, and knowing your assigned watering days is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect our water resources.
Lawn and Landscape Water Use Rules
Even-numbered addresses may irrigate on Tuesdays and Saturdays between 5-9 a.m. or 7–11 p.m.
Odd-numbered addresses may irrigate on Wednesdays and Sundays between 5–9 a.m. or 7–11 p.m.
Hand watering of non-lawn landscape is allowed any day, at any time, if needed
Hand watering of lawns must follow designated watering days and times
Hand watering and micro-irrigation of plants (other than lawns) can be done on any day at any time
An automatic shutoff device must be installed on any hose and used at all times
Residents and businesses located outside of city limits or who do not receive their water from the City should verify their watering days and restrictions with their water supplier. Please note that St. Pete’s watering schedule may differ from Pinellas County. Learn more about water usage rules at www.stpete.org/WaterRestrictions.
Additionally, residents should adjust their irrigation timer to ensure the settings are correct, as Restriction Enforcement Activities will continue to be enhanced. Aggressive water shortage action may become necessary if conditions worsen.
Conservation Tips
Only use water when necessary – during winter, lawns go dormant and typically require watering only every 10–14 days
Fix broken or misdirected sprinkler heads
Ensure rain sensors work properly
Consider installing a smart irrigation controller – many residents qualify for a free controller or rebates through the Tampa Bay Water Wise program
Additional rebates, including up to $1,000 for shallow wells and up to $200 for high-efficiency toilets, help homeowners reduce both outdoor and indoor use
Take shorter showers
Turn off the water when brushing teeth and shaving
Check for leaks and replace worn toilet flappers
Please remember that “wasteful and unnecessary” water use is prohibited, including allowing water to be dispersed without any practical purpose, using water in a grossly inefficient manner, and using water for a purpose that can be readily accomplished by other means.
For more information about water restrictions and water conservation tips, visit www.stpete.org/WaterConservation. Please continue to check back regularly for updated information.