Pinellas County Under 'Extreme' Drought Order: Once-Weekly Lawn Watering Restrictions Start Now

Clearwater residents now face new water restrictions as the Southwest Florida Water Management District issued a Modified Phase III 'Extreme' Water Shortage Order. This order, which went into effect today, September 30, 2026, will remain in place until March 31, 2027. The restrictions apply across Pinellas County and aim to conserve water during severe drought conditions.

The new regulations significantly impact daily water usage for both residential and commercial properties. Pinellas County residents must limit lawn and landscape watering to once per week. Watering hours are now restricted to either 12 am to 4 am or 8 pm to 11:59 pm. Properties smaller than one acre can use only one of these four-hour windows, while properties one acre or larger may utilize both.

Homeowners associations (HOAs) and other entities cannot enforce deed restrictions or community standards that require increased water use. This means residents will not face penalties for adhering to the new, stricter watering schedule. Additionally, car washing at home is only permitted on a resident's designated lawn watering day, and requires the use of a hose with a shutoff nozzle.

Commercial establishments also see changes. Ornamental fountains are limited to four hours of operation per day, and businesses must post these hours. Restaurants now serve water only upon request, a measure designed to reduce unnecessary water consumption. These changes reflect the severity of the drought conditions and the need for collective conservation efforts.