Under the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Tampa Bay and surrounding areas remain under Phase III water restriction as extreme drought conditions continue and water violations rise across the region.
The district declared a modified Phase III “Extreme” water shortage on March 24.
Under the restrictions, residents are limited to operating automatic irrigation systems no more than one day per week and only during designated watering hours.
The Tampa Water Department said its water enforcement patrols have increased in areas with higher numbers of violations.
The water shortage order took effect Dec. 1, 2025, and city officials said more than 430 Tampa Water Department customers have received citations for violating watering rules — a 30% increase from the previous year.
Many of the violations occurred in high-use areas where customers exceeded 10,000 gallons of water usage per month.
Customers and businesses that fail to follow mandatory watering restrictions may face fines starting at $100 for a first-time violation.
To help residents conserve water and avoid violations, the Tampa Water Department is offering several free resources aimed at reducing unnecessary water usage.
The free services include:
One-on-one irrigation evaluations. Customers can request the service through Tampa Connect and receive help locating leaks, correcting irrigation controller issues, installing free rain sensors and finding ways to reduce water use and save money.
Waived reclaimed water fees. Through Dec. 31, 2026, Water Department application and meter installation fees will be waived for eligible customers.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping assistance. Certified professionals are available to help customers transform over-irrigated lawns into water-wise landscapes.
Water-saving devices. Residents can receive water-saving tools and leak detection devices.
“We thank everyone who is already taking steps to conserve water and encourage more residents throughout our community to join the effort,” Water Department Director Rory Jones said in a press release. “Protecting our water supply during this drought will take all of us working together to reduce waste and use water wisely.”
The Tampa Water Department said it will increase direct outreach to customers in high-use areas to help residents conserve resources and comply with drought restrictions.
Residents with questions about watering restrictions can contact the department’s Conservation and Efficiency Team at (813) 274-8121 or email SaveWater@tampa.gov