City News Blog: City of Lakeland Begins Enforcement of Phase 3 Water Restrictions
LAKELAND, FL (September 8, 2026) – Today, the City Commission unanimously approved an amendment to Ordinance 4844 establishing drought enforcement measures to ensure compliance with Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (SWFWMD) Phase 3 Water Shortage Restrictions. The amendment establishes enforcement and appeal procedures for watering violations, including fines of $50 for a first violation, $200 for a second violation, and $500 for third and subsequent violations.
Effective immediately, fines may be assessed when a violation is witnessed and verified by an authorized City enforcement official, including Water Utilities staff, Lakeland Police or City Code Enforcement.
Customers found to be out of compliance with requirements will receive a letter identifying the violation. Unless an appeal is approved by Water Utilities, a fine will be reflected on their Lakeland Electric bill.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) declared a Phase 3 Water Shortage in April 2026 due to continuing drought conditions. Although recent afternoon showers have brought some much-needed rain, the area continues to experience a rainfall deficit compared to the historical average.
Phase 3 Water Shortage Restrictions remain in effect through October 1, 2026. SWFWMD will determine the watering restrictions moving forward at that time.
Enforcement and Appeals Process
Once a violation is verified:
- A notice of violation will be mailed to the account holder associated with the property where the violation occurred.
- The first violation carries a $50 fine.
- The second violation carries a $200 fine.
- Third and subsequent violations carry a $500 fine.
- The account holder will have 30 days to submit a written appeal to the Water Utilities Department.
- The Water Utilities Director or designee will review the appeal and determine whether the fine will be upheld or waived.
- Fines will be applied to the water utility account and paid through the City's customer billing system.
Know Your Watering Day
Residents and businesses are encouraged to know and follow their designated watering day to avoid violations.
- Irrigation hours are limited to midnight to 4 a.m. or 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Properties under one acre in size may only irrigate during one of these windows.
- All automatic irrigation systems are required to have a working rain shutoff device.
- Most properties may irrigate only one day per week, regardless of the water source, including City water, private wells and surface water.
- Hand watering and micro-irrigation are still allowed, but only before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
- Pressure washing in preparation for painting or sealing is allowed.
- Wasteful water use is prohibited at all times.
- These restrictions apply to private residences and commercial landscapes.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to review their designated watering day and make sure irrigation systems are properly programmed. Water conservation remains critical as drought conditions continue throughout the region.
For more information about Phase 3 Water Shortage Restrictions, designated watering days, enforcement and water conservation tips, visit LakelandGov.net/Restrictions. Also, visit the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s website for the latest information on drought conditions and water conservation across the region.