New Watering Restrictions in Effect

From the City of Temple Terrace:

The Southwest Florida Water Management District issued new lawn watering restrictions on Tuesday, allowing homeowners to return to twice-a-week irrigation.

Thanks to recent rains, the district’s board voted to lift once-a-week watering and return immediately to Phase I restrictions, which will remain in effect through Dec. 31. The restrictions apply to Hillsborough County, including Temple Terrace, as well as Charlotte, Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Manatee, Pasco, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter counties.

Under the new rules:

• lawn watering is limited to twice a week;
• even-numbered addresses may water on Thursday and/or Sunday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.;
• odd-numbered addresses may water on Wednesday and/or Saturday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.;
• hand-watering of plants and shrubs can be done as needed any day and any time; and
• new lawns have a 30-30 establishment period, which allows any-day watering during the first 30 days during the allowable hours. During the second 30 days, watering is allowed three days a week for even-numbered addresses on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and odd-numbered addresses on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

If establishing a new lawn in Temple Terrace, residents should call at 813-506-6570 to obtain a watering waiver. Residents also should call the  at 813-506-6680 to avoid being cited for watering violations.

As always, area homeowners should refer to their water service provider for specific information regarding their particular community.

For more information about the restrictions, call the Temple Terrace Public Works Department at 813-506-6570 or visit the Southwest Florida Water Management District online.