The restrictions are part of the board’s decision to declare a modified Phase II “Severe” water shortage. The move bumps the region up from the Phase I water shortage order issued on Nov. 18, which only prohibited “wasteful and unnecessary” water use.
District leaders say conditions have continued to worsen since then.
The region finished its rainy season well below average, with a 13-inch rainfall deficit for the year. Water levels in aquifers, rivers, and lakes have continued to fall and public water supplies in the Tampa Bay area are below normal levels.
The dry weather has also prompted area fire departments to issue burn bans.
Outdoor irrigation accounts for more than 50% of household water use, district officials say. Reducing lawn watering is one of the fastest ways residents can help.
Under the standard schedule, watering days depend on the last digit of the house number in your address:
- 0 or 1: Monday
- 2 or 3: Tuesday
- 4 or 5: Wednesday
- 6 or 7: Thursday
- 8 or 9 and properties without a clear address: Friday
Unless a city or county already has stricter rules:
- Properties under two acres may water before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
- Violations could result in a citation and fine from the city or county.
