Phase 1 Water Shortage Begins Dec. 1

The Southwest Florida Water Management District is entering a Phase 1 water shortage from Dec. 1, 2025, through July 1, 2026. This applies to residents in all of 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.

Our area has received lower than normal rainfall during the summer rainy season and currently have a 13-inch rainfall deficit compared to the historical average 12-month total. As a result, water levels in the district’s water resources, such as aquifers, rivers and lakes, are declining.

What it Means for You

Outdoor conservation becomes more important as we enter the Phase 1 water shortage and the dry season. The water shortage order does not change allowable watering schedules, however it does prohibit “wasteful and unnecessary” water use, such as allowing water to flow from an unattended hose.

Simple Ways to Save Water

Outdoor water use accounts for more than 50 percent of water used by households, and residents should know and follow their local watering restrictions. Visit WaterMatters.org/Restrictions to view allowable lawn watering schedules, including the day and time based on your address.

Homeowners also are asked to reduce their outdoor water consumption by checking your irrigation system to ensure it’s working properly. This means testing and repairing broken pipes and leaks and fixing damaged or tilted sprinkler heads.

Don’t forget to check your irrigation timer to ensure the settings are correct and the rain sensor is working properly in accordance with state law.

Thank You for Helping Protect Our Water

Together, we can make a meaningful impact this dry season. Throughout the season, we will share easy tips from our Water 101 campaign, or you can visit our Water 101 website for more resources and conservation tips.