PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has officially extended its “Extreme” Water Shortage Order for Pinellas County and surrounding areas through October 1. The decision comes as the region’s main water supply has plummeted below 20% capacity under the weight of a severe, ongoing drought.
Local officials are targeting outdoor watering as the primary area to cut back, calling it the fastest and most effective way for the community to protect what is left of the shared supply. To make sure residents take the order seriously, Pinellas County Utilities staff are now required to hand out $193 fines for any variations from the mandated schedule.
The restrictions apply to all water sources, including potable, well, lake, and reclaimed water, but the exact days you are allowed to water depend heavily on where you live…