Modified Phase III "Extreme" Water Shortage Restrictions Through October 1

Information from: District Water Restrictions | WaterMatters.org

Effective Date and Areas

• The District’s Modified Phase III one-day-per-week water shortage restrictions were extended through Oct. 1, 2026.
• The District received below average rainfall during its 2025 rainy season and at the time the Modified Phase III was effective in April 2026, had a 13.7-inch regional rainfall deficit compared to the average 12-month total. The average 12-month rainfall total through June 2026 had a 15-inch rainfall deficit. In addition, water levels in the District’s water resources, such as rivers and lakes, are continuing to decline and many are severely abnormal. Moreover, public water supplies are extremely low.
• 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.
• The restrictions apply to 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 Charlotte County.

Visit WaterMatters.org for the full report on SWFWMD District-wide restrictions.

Visit Hillsborough County website to learn more about Hillsborough County-specific restrictions.