A Modified Phase III ‘Extreme’ Water Shortage is in effect from April 3, 2026, through July 1, 2026, across Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, and Sumter counties, plus parts of Charlotte, Highlands, Lake, and Marion counties. All residents, including those on private wells, may water lawns only one day per week during hours of 12:01–4 a.m. or 8 p.m.–11:59 p.m. (only one window for properties under one acre). Other limits include:
• Home car washing allowed only on the assigned lawn watering day using a hose with a shutoff nozzle • Aesthetic fountains limited to four hours daily, with hours posted • Restaurants may serve water only upon request • Pressure washing for painting or sealing allowed • HOAs may not require water use increases for landscaping
More information: WaterMatters.org/Restrictions. Tips for saving water: WaterMatters.org/Water101…