Seasonal Restrictions on Reclaimed Water
Phase II Water Shortage Order
Due to below average rainfall and declining water supply throughout the region, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has issued a Phase II Water Shortage Order that includes Pinellas County and other surrounding counties under their jurisdiction. The order goes into effect on Feb. 8, 2026. Pinellas County Utilities will move to one-day-per-week watering for all customers using the schedule at pinellas.gov/watering-schedule-and-rules.
Reclaimed Water “Frequency of Use” During Dry Season
The reclaimed water shortages during the dry season have caused stress on the distribution system in recent years. A proposal was passed to limit lawn-watering during the dry season to three days a week. This will help the distribution system while also helping you build a healthier lawn. Experts at the University of Florida and The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences recommend watering less frequently to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.
Reclaimed Water Benefits
- Creates an alternate water source and reduces demand on potable (drinking) water sources.
- Saves money by replacing drinking water for landscape irrigation.
- Reduces fertilizer costs and usage. Reclaimed water contains nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which are commonly found in fertilizers. This means you may be able to reduce your fertilizer use and save money.
- Makes our community landscaping beautiful.
Additional Information
- Current Reclaimed Watering Schedule
- Year-Round Watering Restrictions
- Reclaimed Water Usage Ordinance
- Application for Variance from Reclaimed Schedule (Pinellas County Code 82-3)
- Southwest Florida Water Management District Year-Round Conservation Measures (Chapter 40D-22 policy)
- Healthy Lawn Information
- Turf and Landscape Irrigation Recommendations from University of Florida/The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences considering application rate, month and climate area