Pasco County Urges Water Conservation

Rainfall shortages lead to water shortage declaration

As Pasco County experiences dry conditions due to a lack of rainfall, Pasco County Utilities encourages everyone to conserve water and follow watering guidelines.  The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) voted November 14, 2023, to approve a modified Phase I Water Shortage Order through July 1, 2024.

Pasco County asks all customers to follow the SWFWMD irrigation rules. That means irrigation with potable, well or surface water is limited to once per week, year-round. Irrigation with reclaimed water is allowed up to twice per week, though we encourage reclaimed water customers to reduce their water use and water only once a week. Pasco County does not allow any irrigation between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

“Reducing outdoor water use is one of the best ways to conserve and reduce water use. Check your irrigation timer for the correct day and time and look for leaks,” said Pasco County Utilities Customer Information & Services Director Sandra Anderson. “Limiting indoor water use will help conserve water as well. Ensure toilets, water fixtures and appliances are leak-free and functioning properly.”

Helpful tips on efficient landscape irrigation include:

• Know your watering day by visiting bit.ly/PascoWatering
• Stick to your watering schedule. Turf becomes drought tolerant. More is not better
• Ensure your irrigation system is operating properly and efficiently
• Water only during the allowable timeframe. It helps minimize water loss from evaporation
• Check for and repair household leaks. Visit bit.ly/SeekALeak for more information

If you need help with your irrigation controllers, email SaveH2O@MyPasco.net. Help conserve water during our drier than normal conditions. More tips for outdoor and indoor water conservation and efficiency are available online at bit.ly/PascoLawn and bit.ly/PascoIndoor. Visit PascoCountyUtilities.com for more information about Pasco County Utilities services. To report watering violations in your area please call 727.847.2411