Once-a-Week Watering Restrictions in Place for Gulfport

A severe water shortage has been declared by the Executive Director of the Southwest Florida Water Management District due to below-average rainfall and a dry spring season, according to a Pinellas County news release. 

The emergency order (# 2012-005) will remain in effect through July 31 unless extended or rescinded by the Water Management District Governing Board or Executive Director.

Updated May 11, 3:45 p.m.

According to a Pinellas County news release, the order specifies that:

• Lawn and landscape watering is limited to one day a week
• Watering is prohibited between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• All observed violations will result in a fine of $193
• Fountains may only operate four hours per day
• Car washing is limited to once per week and only on the designated watering day for your location
• Pressure washing is allowed once a year or for necessary purposes
• Restaurants shall only serve water upon request

According to Pinellas County, the water shortage order applies to properties watering with potable city water, water from private wells, or private connections to surface water sources (lakes, ponds, etc.).

Correction/Update, May 11, 4:15 p.m.: Gulfport City Manager Jim O'Reilly says the City of Gulfport will follow watering restrictions set forth by the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Watering hours are before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. regardless of property size. Irrigation of established lawns and landscapes is now restricted to once a week for all water sources except reclaimed water.

• Addresses ending in a 0 or 1 may irrigate on Monday.
• Addresses ending in a 2 or 3 may irrigate on Tuesday.
• Addresses ending in a 4 or 5 may irrigate on Wednesday.
• Addresses ending in a 6 or 7 may irrigate on Thursday.
• Addresses ending in a 8 or 9 may irrigate on Friday.
• Mixed or no address, may irrigate on Friday.

Violations observed by Enforcement Personnel will result in a citation subject to a fine plus court costs.

For more information and to look up your authorized watering day, visit the Pinellas County website or call (727) 464-4000.