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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 and low water levels. These rules limit outdoor watering to once a week and require restaurants to serve water only upon request.

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Why It Matters

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

Key Facts

  • The Modified 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 a patron.
  • The district reported an 11.4-inch rainfall deficit as of the end of May.
  • The Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority held 7 to 8 months of water supply as of May 17, below the typical 12 to 13-month target.
  • Executive Director Brian Armstrong is authorized to end the restrictions early if water levels recover.
  • A separate burn ban in Sarasota County, effective since April 19, restricts fireworks to licensed professionals only.
  • Barbecue grills are permitted under the burn ban if the fuel area is less than three feet wide and two feet tall.

Who's Mentioned

locationDeSoto“County covered by the district.”locationManatee“County covered by the district.”personBrian Armstrong“Executive director of the district authorized to rescind the order early.”personKatie Gilmore“Director of development for the water supply authority.”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“Hydrologic data manager for the district.”