Water Restrictions

Published on April 24, 2026

Watering Schedule and Rules in Clearwater

The Southwest Florida Water Management District has declared a Modified Phase III (Extreme) Water Shortage that includes the city of Clearwater. The order is in effect through July 1, 2026, unless modified or rescinded by the District. The declaration was issued due to below-normal rainfall and declining regional water supply levels.

Knowing your assigned watering day is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect our water resources. All customers are required to follow the restrictions below and reduce wasteful and unnecessary water use whenever possible. Under Phase III, violations may be subject to citation without prior warning.

These restrictions apply only within the City of Clearwater water service area. If you are located in unincorporated Pinellas County or another municipality, please visit https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/business/epermitting/local-government-water-restrictions for more information.

Current Watering Rules at a Glance

• Watering restrictions apply to all irrigation water sources, including city drinking water, private wells, and water from ponds or surface water bodies.
• Reclaimed water is subject to separate rules, described below.
• Sprinkler irrigation of lawns and turf is allowed either from midnight to 4 a.m. or from 8 p.m. to midnight. Properties less than one acre may use only one of these time periods per day, once per week on your designated day.
• Hand watering, drip irrigation, and other low-volume or micro-irrigation methods may be used to water food gardens, shrubs, and other non-turf plants on any day before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
• Car washing at home is only allowed on your designated day. Please use a shutoff nozzle.
• Rinsing of boats and flushing of boat engines is allowed after each use when needed to remove salt water or to prevent the transportation of exotic plant or animal material.
• Restaurants are required to only serve water upon request.
• Ornamental fountains are limited to four hours a day.
• Irrigation systems may be operated for testing and repair once per week, for no more than 10 minutes per test, with an attendant on site in the area being tested.
• Pressure washing is allowed only for necessary purposes, such as preparation for painting or sealing, construction, or removal of mold, mildew, or other hazardous materials. Pressure washing for aesthetic or routine cleaning is not allowed.