SWFWMD Modified Phase II Water Shortage Order
Published on January 28, 2026
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has issued a Modified Phase II Water Shortage Order due to continued dry conditions and declining regional water resources. The restrictions are effective February 8, 2026, through July 1, 2026. Local governments are reminded that city or county ordinances take precedence and may be more restrictive than the District’s minimum requirements.
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Reason for Restrictions
• The region experienced below-average rainfall during the 2025 summer rainy season.
• As of December, the area has a 13-inch rainfall deficit compared to the historical 12-month average.
• Aquifer, river, and lake levels are declining, and public water supplies in the Tampa Bay region are lower than expected for this time of year.
• The District uses water shortage orders as temporary measures during extended dry conditions.
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Areas Affected
The restrictions apply Districtwide, including:
• All of Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, and Sumter counties
• Portions of Charlotte, Highlands, and Lake counties
• City of Dunnellon and The Villages (Marion County)
• Portion of Gasparilla Island (Charlotte County)
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Lawn Irrigation Restrictions
• One day per week lawn watering for all properties, including those on private wells.
• Residents must follow local government watering schedules where they differ or are more restrictive.
Standard District Watering Days (by address):
• 0–1: Monday
• 2–3: Tuesday
• 4–5: Wednesday
• 6–7: Thursday
• 8–9: Friday (also applies to mixed or undetermined addresses)
Watering Times:
• 12:01 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. or 6:00 p.m. – 11:59 p.m.
• Properties under one acre may only use one of these time windows per watering day.
Allowed at Any Time:
• Low-volume irrigation (micro-irrigation, soaker hoses, hand watering) for plants and shrubs only, not turf.
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New Lawn and Plant Establishment
• 60-day establishment period beginning on the installation date.
- Days 1–30: Watering allowed any day.
- Days 31–60: Limited to three days per week:
- Even addresses: Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday
- Odd addresses: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday
• Properties ≥2 acres (e.g., cemeteries) may use an alternative three-day schedule if a written schedule is maintained.
• Common areas or rights-of-way without addresses may water Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday during days 31–60.
• Irrigation zones used for establishment must contain at least 50% new plant material.
• Proof of eligibility (receipts or documentation) must be provided upon request.
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Reclaimed Water
• Subject only to voluntary watering hours, unless otherwise restricted by the local government or utility.
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Other Water Uses
• Pressure washing is allowed annually or when preparing for painting or sealing.
• HOAs may not require actions that increase water use, including landscape replacement for aesthetics or pressure washing.
• Residential car washing is allowed only on the assigned watering day using a hose with a shutoff nozzle.
• Aesthetic fountains are limited to eight hours per day.