BARTOW, FL – (March 26, 2026) — Customers of Polk County Utilities will be required to follow reduced lawn watering hours beginning Friday, April 3, in compliance with a Modified Phase III water shortage order issued by Southwest Florida Water Management District.
The order, approved by SWFWMD’s Governing Board on March 24, was enacted due to a 13.7-inch rainfall deficit compared to the region’s historical 12-month average.
Under the Modified Phase III restrictions, lawn irrigation is limited to the hours of 12:01 a.m. to 4 a.m. or 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Properties less than one acre may only water during one of these time windows. The once-per-week irrigation schedule implemented under the earlier Modified Phase II order will remain unchanged.
Polk County Utilities will also change its enforcement approach. Beginning April 17, customers who violate watering restrictions will receive a citation and may face fines under Polk County Ordinance No. 04-07. Courtesy letters previously issued for first-time violations will no longer be provided.
The updated watering hours apply to all residential, commercial, and common areas served by Polk County Utilities, including customers using private wells or reclaimed water.
Homeowners associations are prohibited from enforcing requirements that would increase water usage beyond the approved schedule.
Customers served by other utilities are advised to check with their local providers, as restrictions may vary. Additional information is available on the county’s website.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY GOVERNMENT
