The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board voted Sept. 22 to extend its Modified Phase III “Extreme” Water Shortage Order for a second time. The restrictions remain unchanged and apply throughout Polk County and other parts of the region, including to residents using private wells.
The district reported a 15.4-inch rainfall deficit for the 12 months ending in August, compared with a 13-inch deficit reported in March. Despite recent rain, the region remains significantly below normal rainfall levels.
How to avoid fines
On Sept. 8, the Lakeland City Commission unanimously approved higher fines for violating water restrictions and eliminated warnings for first-time offenders. Residents within city limits now face a $50 fine for a first violation, $200 for a second, and $500 for a third, bringing the city’s fines in line with Polk County’s which have been in place since 2009.
Residents of both the city of Lakeland and unincorporated areas of Lakeland should continue following the existing Phase III restrictions. The watering schedule is the same for both the city and Polk county.
The restrictions include:
- Lawn watering: Once a week on your assigned day, between midnight and 4 a.m. or between 8 p.m. and midnight.
- Car washing: Only on your assigned watering day, using a shutoff nozzle.
- Decorative fountains: Limited to four hours per day.
- Pressure washing: Allowed in preparation for painting or sealing, but not for aesthetic purposes.
- Restaurants: Water may be served only upon request.
The district said outdoor water use accounts for more than half of household water consumption and encouraged residents to conserve wherever possible…