As the Tampa Bay region continues to experience drier-than-normal weather conditions, the once-a-week watering restrictions have been extended.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) is extending the restrictions in place for Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and Pinellas County until July 1, 2024. Officially referred to as the “Modified Phase 1 Water Shortage Order,” the restrictions initially went into effect on December 1, 2023.
According to SWFWMD, the 12-month rainfall deficit currently stands at 7.4 inches. This is despite seeing above-average rainfall between November 2023 and January 2024.
During this time last year, the Tampa Water Department saw an average demand of 81.6 million gallons a day (MGD). In January 2024, one month after the change in restrictions, demand fell to 75.1 MGD. The Tampa Water Department thanks residents and businesses for following the water shortage order and urges everyone to continue conserving water.
Watering days are based on the last number of an address.
Residents can visit this page to view their assigned irrigation schedule.
Wasteful use of water, such as hosing down driveways, is also prohibited. Additional information, including details on establishing new sod, can be found online.
Residents 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 Tampa Water Department offers resources to residents and businesses who are looking to reduce their water use, including offering free water-saving devices and water conservation workshops.
