sprinklerThe District modified its Water Shortage Order. A Modified Phase II water shortage will be in effect Districtwide beginning Feb. 8, 2026, through July 1, 2026. We received below average rainfall during the summer rainy season and, as of December, have a 13-inch rainfall deficit compared to the historical average 12-month total. Water levels in the region’s aquifers, rivers and lakes are declining. Public water supplies in the Tampa Bay area are lower than expected at this time of year.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
Water resource conditions are below normal and may get worse before they start to improve. The District addresses dry conditions through water shortage actions, which are temporary measures that restrict water use among the various types of permit holders during extended dry conditions.

SUMMARY OF RESTRICTIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Beginning Feb. 8, 2026, the following restrictions apply:

  • The Modified Phase II Water Shortage Order reduces lawn watering to one day per week Districtwide, including residents on private wells.
  • Watering hours are reduced to 12:01 a.m. to 8 a.m. or 6 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.; properties less than one acre in size may only use one of these windows.
  • Watering days are based on the following schedule for addresses ending in:
    • 0 or 1 shall only water on Monday
    • 2 or 3, on Tuesday
    • 4 or 5, on Wednesday
    • 6 or 7, on Thursday
    • 8 or 9, on Friday along with locations with a mix of addresses or for which an address cannot be determined (such as common areas associated with a subdivision)
  • Low-volume watering of plants and shrubs (micro-irrigation, soaker hoses, hand watering) is allowed any day and any time.
  • Annual pressure washing or in preparation for painting and sealing is allowed.
  • No HOA or other entity shall enforce deed restrictions or other community standards requiring an increase in water use, including replacement of plant material to meet aesthetic standards or pressure washing (i.e., driveways).
  • Car washing at home (non-commercial) is only allowed on your lawn watering day and you must use a hose with a shutoff nozzle.
  • Aesthetic fountain use is limited to eight hours a day. Exemptions for koi ponds, small fountains, interactive commercial/institutional recreation areas and other incidental uses (see Rule).
  • A full list of restrictions is provided on WaterMatters.org.
  • Water utilities, in consultation with applicable local enforcement agencies, must:
    • Follow all Phase II efforts for restriction enforcement and respond to citizen complaints.
    • Report information to the District as required in Phase II and follow additional monthly reporting as specified in the water shortage order.
    • Institute/accelerate conservation as required in Phase II and review and refine operational practices (including water pressure and line flushing).

ANY QUESTIONS?

  • Visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/Restrictions for more information.
  • Send an inquiry to WaterMatters.org/Restrictions at any time.
  • Call (813) 856-5679 during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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