Phase 1 Water Shortage Order No. SWF 25-015
The District’s Governing Board has issued Water Shortage Order No. SWF 25-015 for all Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter counties; portions of Charlotte, Highlands and Lake counties; the City of Dunnellon and The Villages in Marion County; and the portion of Gasparilla Island in Lee County. The order is effective Dec. 1, 2025, through July 1, 2026, except where stricter measures have been imposed by local governments.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
Water resource conditions are below normal and may get worse before they start to improve. The District addresses dry conditions through water shortage actions, which are temporary measures that restrict water use among the various types of permit holders during extended dry conditions. In addition to alerting the public, conditions warrant requiring water utilities to take certain actions.
SUMMARY OF RESTRICTIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
As of Dec. 1, 2025, the following restrictions apply to the jurisdictions listed above:
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The Phase I Water Shortage Order does not change allowable watering schedules. Residents should check with their city or county for allowable days and times and continue following current lawn and landscape irrigation restrictions.
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“Wasteful and Unnecessary” water use is prohibited, including allowing water to be dispersed without any practical purpose, using water in a grossly inefficient manner and using water for a purpose that can be readily accomplished by other means.
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Water utilities, in consultation with applicable local enforcement agencies, must:
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Review, update and implement procedures for enforcing year-round and water shortage restrictions.
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Report information to the District regarding violations involving a Water Use Permit holder.
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Respond to residential and other enforcement referrals made by the District.
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Transmit enforcement data to the District monthly (beginning Jan. 5, 2026).
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Inform customers about the declaration, local supplies and water conservation opportunities.
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Address inquiries from the District and citizens about line flushing and disinfection activity.
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ANY QUESTIONS?
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Visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/Restrictions for more information.
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Send an inquiry to WaterMatters.org/Restrictions at any time.
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Call (813) 856-5679 during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.