Water Restrictions

Water Restriction Information

An Overview
Confused by all the media hype about the drought and the current water restrictions? You have good reason to be. There may be two different sets of water restrictions that apply to you. In order to understand which restrictions you're under, you really have to read every line of both sets of rules. Then you can compare and see which is the strictest. The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) restrictions are in effect except where more stringent water restrictions have been imposed by local governments.

Who's in Charge?
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) governs water use in all of Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Hardee and Desoto counties. In addition it governs water use in parts of Charlotte, Highlands, Polk, Sumpter Marion and Levy counties.
SWFWMD water restrictions are in effect except where more stringent water restrictions have been imposed by local governments.

Where can I find more details on the SWFWMD rules?
For more details go to: http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/waterres/restrictions/restrictions_16counties.htm

Tampa Bay Water has created an interactive map to help residents and professionals alike understand which water restrictions are in effect in their area: Click on the link below to access their site:
http://www.tampabaywater.org/conservation/irrigationcodes.aspx

Drought Links
US Drought Monitor - http://enso.unl.edu/monitor/monitor.html
Seasonal Drought Outlook - http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/expert_assessment/seasonal_drought.html