Tampa Water Department Issues 430 Drought Citations

The Tampa Water Department cited over 430 customers for violating drought restrictions since December 1, 2025, a 30% jump from the same period last year.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District limits automatic irrigation systems to one day per week during designated hours. The Water Department stepped up enforcement patrols in high-use areas, where customers often exceed 10,000 gallons monthly. First-time fines start at $100.

To help residents avoid penalties, the Water Department offers free services: on-site irrigation evaluations through Tampa Connect, waived reclaimed water fees through December 31, 2026, Florida-Friendly Landscaping guidance, and leak detection devices.

The irrigation evaluation program has helped participating customers save an average of 5,000 gallons per month, according to the department.

Water Department Director Rory Jones said the department will increase outreach to high-use customers in coming weeks.

Residents can contact the Conservation and Efficiency Team at (813) 274-8121, Option 5, or [email protected].