Tampa Republic

TAMPA, Fla. (July 3, 2024) -- As the Tampa Bay region continues to experience drier-than-normal weather conditions, residents will continue to be allowed to irrigate their lawns only once a week. The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) is extending the watering restrictions in place for Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties until September 1, 2024. Officially referred to as the "Modified Phase 1 Water Shortage Order," the once-a-week watering restrictions initially went into effect on December 1, 2023.

“We want to thank our City of Tampa Water customers for their continued commitment in abiding by the current water restrictions,” said Rory Jones, Water Department Director. “Your cooperation is crucial in ensuring the sustainability of our water resources. Since enacting the water restrictions, you have conserved more than one billion gallons of water compared to the same time last year! Together, we can make a significant difference in maintaining the health and availability of our water system for everyone.”

According to SWFWMD, the 12-month rainfall deficit through May 2024 is currently about 7.4 inches. Despite some rainfall in June, the region’s water resources, including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, have not yet fully recovered to normal levels.

In Tampa, these restrictions apply to all users watering with either the City’s drinking water or well water. Reclaimed water customers can water any day and any time as long as it is not wasteful and unnecessary.

Watering days are based on the last number of the street address as shown in the watering schedule below:

- Last Digit of House or Business Address: Watering Day

- 0 or 1: Monday

- 2 or 3: Tuesday

- 4 or 5: Wednesday

- 6 or 7: Thursday

- 8 or 9: Friday

Watering is prohibited between 8:00 A.M. and 6 P.M. Wasteful use of water, such as hosing down driveways, is also prohibited. Additional information can be found at Tampa.gov/WaterRestrictions.

In Tampa, citations are issued at first observance from a water use enforcement patroller. Property owners who violate the City’s Water Use Restrictions are subject to fines ranging from $100 up to $500. Repeated violations may also result in a mandatory court appearance.

The City of Tampa Water Department offers resources to residents and businesses looking to reduce their water use, including free water-saving devices, irrigation evaluations, and water conservation workshops. Visit Tampa.gov/SaveWater for more information.

Contact:

306 East Jackson Street,

Tampa, Florida 33602,

(813) 274-8211

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