Florida Water Restrictions Law: Statewide Landscaping Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Authority: FS Chapter 373
Typical schedule: Two days per week
No watering: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Rain sensor: Required statewide
Max civil penalty: $10,000 per day

Full Breakdown

Under FS 373.246, the five regional water management districts (SWFWMD, SJRWMD, SFWMD, NWFWMD, SRWMD) issue year-round and emergency watering restrictions that bind every property owner regardless of city. Most districts limit lawn irrigation to two days per week based on address (odd/even), with no watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Local governments may adopt stricter rules but cannot loosen district orders. FS 373.62 also requires functioning rain sensors on all automatic irrigation systems installed after 1991, statewide.

Violations & Penalties

District violations carry civil penalties up to $10,000 per day under FS 373.129; local code enforcement typically issues warnings then fines $25 to $500.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my city override the water management district schedule?

Cities may adopt stricter watering rules but cannot weaken the district order. The district schedule is the floor that applies everywhere within its boundaries.

Do rain sensors really apply to every Florida home?

Yes. FS 373.62 requires every automatic irrigation system installed, replaced, or repaired since 1991 to include a functioning rain shutoff device, regardless of city ordinance.

Florida Water Management District Restrictions Apply Statewide

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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