Important Water Conservation Measures for Pinellas County - New Watering Schedule

[Luis Bedoya]

Dear Pinellas County Residents,

As stewards of our beautiful environment, it’s crucial we all play a part in conserving our natural resources. With this in mind, we’re reaching out to inform you of significant changes to our water usage guidelines, mandated by the Southwest Florida Water Management District due to the current modified Stage 1 Water Shortage.

1. New Watering Schedule: Starting from December 1, 2023, Pinellas County Utilities will implement a one-day-per-week watering schedule for all its water customers. This change is vital in helping us manage our water resources more effectively during this period of scarcity. Here’s what the new schedule looks like:

• Customers North of SR580:
  • Even-numbered addresses (0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Saturdays
  • Odd-numbered addresses (1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Wednesdays
  • Mixed/No Address (common areas, entry areas/office complexes, shopping centers): Wednesdays
• Customers South of SR580:
  • Even-numbered addresses: Tuesdays
  • Odd-numbered addresses: Thursdays
  • Mixed/No Address: Thursdays

Note: Watering is not permitted between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

2. Violation Penalties: Adhering to these rules is imperative. The following outlines the penalties for non-compliance:

• First Offense: Warning without a fine.
• Second Offense: A citation carrying a $193.00 fine.
• Phase 2 Violations (if escalated): Every offense will incur a $193.00 fine.

3. Basic Rules of Water Usage:

• Unattended hoses must be turned off.
• Hand-watering is only allowed on your designated day and not more than once per day.
• Avoid using hoses to clean driveways or structures where other methods are available.
• Repair any irrigation or plumbing issues promptly upon notice.

4. Irrigation System Testing and Repair:

• Systems may be operated for testing and repair.
• Testing is permitted once a week, with each test not exceeding 10 minutes.
• An attendant must be on-site during testing.

These measures are not just regulatory obligations but a collective responsibility for the well-being of our community and environment. Let’s work together to ensure that our water resources are used wisely and sustainably.

For more information, please visit the Southwest Florida Water Management District at www.swfwmd.state.fl.us or contact them at (800) 836-0797. You can also find fact sheets on various water-related topics on our website.

Stay informed and be part of the solution. Please share this information with your neighbors and friends in Pinellas County to help spread awareness about these essential water conservation measures.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to preserving our precious water resources.

Stay tuned to this page for any updates or changes to these regulations.

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