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NewsSuncoast SearchlightJune 24, 2026Sarasota County

Southwest Florida Water Restrictions Extended Through September

The Southwest Florida Water Management District has extended its Phase 3 water restrictions until October 1 due to ongoing drought conditions. These rules limit outdoor watering to once a week and mandate stricter enforcement for water usage across several counties.

water managementdroughtpublic utilitieslocal governmentenvironment
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Why It Matters

Residents in Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties must continue to follow strict outdoor watering schedules and water-use limits through the end of September, with potential for immediate citations for violations.

Key Facts

  • Phase 3 water restrictions are extended until October 1.
  • Outdoor watering is limited to once per week.
  • Municipalities are required to issue citations for first-time water restriction offenses without prior warnings.
  • Aesthetic fountains are limited to four hours of operation per day.
  • Restaurants are prohibited from serving water unless requested by the patron.
  • The district's executive director may rescind the order early if water levels recover.
  • The region faces an 11.4-inch rainfall deficit as of the end of May.
  • The Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority reported 7 to 8 months of water supply remaining as of May 17.
  • Sarasota County has a separate burn ban in effect since April 19, restricting fireworks to licensed professionals only.

Who's Mentioned

locationDeSoto“County affected by water restrictions.”locationManatee“County affected by water restrictions.”personBrian Armstrong“Executive director of the Southwest Florida Water Management District authorized”personKatie Gilmore“Director of development for the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Autho”organizationSouthwest Florida Water Management District“Governing board that voted to extend water restrictions.”locationSarasota County“County affected by water restrictions and a separate burn ban.”organizationPeace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority“Regional water supplier for Sarasota County.”personTamera McBride“District hydrologic data manager who presented rainfall data.”