The push for stricter water-use enforcement in Lakeland and across Polk County comes in response to severe drought conditions and region-wide conservation mandates handed down by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD).
Lakeland leaders are considering $500 fines for repeat water use violations as regional drought conditions persist.
Key Details & Rules
- Strict “No Warning” Policy: Under SWFWMD mandates, local utilities—including Lakeland and Polk County Utilities—eliminated courtesy warning letters for first infractions. First-time violators receive immediate citations.
- Once-a-Week Irrigation: Lawn watering is limited strictly to one designated day per week based on your address number.
- Overnight Hours Only: Watering is restricted to overnight hours (midnight to 4 a.m., or 8 p.m. to midnight) to limit evaporation.
- Universal Scope: These rules apply to all property owners regardless of water source, including residents using private wells or reclaimed water. HOAs are prohibited from enforcing landscaping rules that force residents to violate irrigation restrictions.
Other Activity Restrictions
- Car Washing: Restricted to your assigned watering day only, using a hose with an automatic shutoff nozzle.
- Fountains & Pressure Washing: Decorative fountains are capped at 4 hours of operation per day. Pressure washing is limited to structural preparation (such as painting or sealing), not routine aesthetic cleaning.
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California watering policies in Lakeland Florida. I’ve been here since 1990. Drought conditions?? Why don’t you give 500 dollar no warning citations for people speeding through school zones and flying by stopped school buses.