Pinellas County residents will face tighter water restrictions starting April 3 after County officials issued an “extreme” water shortage order, limiting outdoor use and warning that fines will follow as drought conditions worsen. The Southwest Florida Water Management District issued a Modified Phase III “Extreme” Water Shortage Order. The order keeps the one-day-per-week watering rule. It also adds new limits to reduce unnecessary water use. According to the County’s media release, any homeowner’s associations can no longer require actions that increase water use.
This includes replacing landscaping for appearance or pressure washing. Residents may wash cars at home only on their watering day. They must use a hose with a shutoff nozzle. Property owners must limit ornamental fountains to four hours per day. They must also post the hours of operation. Additionally, restaurants must now serve water only when customers ask for it.
North of State Road 580, residents with even-numbered addresses may water on Saturdays. Those with odd-numbered addresses may water on Wednesdays. South of State Road 580, even-numbered addresses may water on Tuesdays. Odd-numbered addresses may water on Thursdays. Watering is limited to two-time windows: 12:01 a.m. to 4 a.m. or 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Properties smaller than one acre may use only one window.
Pinellas County Utilities staff can issue fines of $193 for violations. Staff may issue warnings at first. However, warnings will end after April 17 due to worsening drought conditions. Residents who use a different water provider should confirm their schedule with that utility.
