Water Use Rules in Tampa, FL (2026)
4 verified water use rules for Tampa, Florida, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Lawn Watering Restrictions
Tampa enforces year-round lawn watering schedules under Tampa Bay Water and Southwest Florida Water Management District rules, limiting irrigation to specific days and hours based on house address to conserve regional supply.
Tampa Lawn Watering Day Restrictions
Some RestrictionsCity of Tampa Water Department — Modified Phase III Water Shortage Restrictions (effective April 3, 2026)
Modified Phase III "Extreme" Water Shortage Restrictions. The Southwest Florida Water Management District has passed a Modified Phase III "Extreme" Water Shortage Order. In addition to the City of Tampa's current mandatory once-a-week watering restrictions (which are enforced year-round), the following modifications take effect on April 3, 2026: Watering is now prohibited between 4am and 8pm, a...
Turf Replacement Rebates
Tampa encourages Florida-Friendly Landscaping conversions that replace high-water turfgrass with native plants, drought-tolerant species, and efficient irrigation, supported by Tampa Bay Water rebates and protected by Florida Statutes against HOA bans.
Tampa Florida-Friendly Landscaping
Few RestrictionsFla. Stat. § 373.185
373.185 Local Florida-friendly landscaping ordinances. — (1) As used in this section, the term: [...] (b) "Florida-friendly landscaping" means quality landscapes that conserve water, protect the environment, are adaptable to local conditions, and are drought tolerant. The principles of such landscaping include planting the right plant in the right place, efficient watering, appropriate fertiliz...
Recycled Water Rules
Tampa offers reclaimed water for irrigation in designated service areas through the STAR program, providing a lower-cost non-potable supply derived from treated wastewater for lawn watering and approved commercial uses.
Tampa Reclaimed Water Service
Few RestrictionsLeak Reporting Duty
Tampa Water Department asks residents to report visible leaks in city mains, hydrants, and meters, and offers a one-time bill adjustment for qualifying customer-side leaks repaired promptly under documented program rules.
Tampa Water Leak Reporting and Adjustments
Few RestrictionsLooking for Hillsborough County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tampa city rules.
Water Use Rules in Hillsborough County →