Most Manatee County Residents Must Follow New Phase III Watering Restrictions Starting April 3
Manatee County officials are reminding residents that most neighborhoods do not have an active watering variance and must comply with the new Phase III Extreme Water Shortage restrictions, which will soon be in effect.
According to the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the updated restrictions begin April 3, 2026, in response to ongoing drought conditions. Despite some confusion among residents, only Trevesta HOA and Rio Mar HOA currently have approved variances. All other communities are required to follow the countywide watering schedule.
Under the new rules, irrigation of existing lawns and landscaping is limited to one day per week. Watering is only permitted during designated overnight hours, either between 12:01 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. or from 8:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Residents must follow a specific day based on their address:
Addresses ending in 0 or 1 may water on Monday
Addresses ending in 2 or 3 may water on Tuesday
Addresses ending in 4 or 5 may water on Wednesday
Addresses ending in 6 or 7 may water on Thursday
Addresses ending in 8 or 9, along with locations without an address, may water on Friday
County officials emphasize that enforcement has increased under the Phase III designation. Confirmed violations may now result in citations without prior warning, with fines starting at $100.
Residents are encouraged to verify their assigned watering day and review full guidelines by visiting mymanatee.org/WaterRestrictions.
