Public Notice: City of Lakeland implements Phase 3 Water Shortage Restrictions

Public Notice: City of Lakeland implements Phase 3 Water Shortage Restrictions

LAKELAND, FL (April 3, 2026) - Due to lower-than-average water levels and ongoing dry conditions, beginning April 3, 2026, the City of Lakeland is implementing Phase 3 Water Shortage Restrictions. These restrictions are in accordance with a Phase III Water Shortage per Rule 40D-21 declared by the Governing Board of the Southwest Florida Water Management District on March 24, 2026.

Under Phase 3 restrictions, lawn irrigation will be limited to one day per week, based on the last digit of the address.

0 or 1: Monday
2 or 3: Tuesday
4 or 5: Wednesday
6 or 7: Thursday
8 or 9: Friday

Watering will be permitted only before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Most properties may irrigate only 1 day per week, regardless of the water source (City, private well, surface water, etc.). Non-essential water use, including washing driveways and sidewalks, is prohibited except for health and safety purposes. Wasteful water use is always prohibited.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to reduce overall water use and follow all established guidelines. Golf courses, athletic fields, cemeteries, and other non-residential landscape uses may have different requirements.

In Phase 3, violations may result in fines or additional enforcement actions.

For additional information and resources regarding full restrictions and water use details, water conservation tips, and other resources please visit the websites below:

• Water Restrictions | City of Lakeland
• Rule 40D-22 of the Southwest Florida Water Management District
• Southwest Florida Water Management District Website

or

Contact the Southwest Florida Water Management District has a toll-free line () to provide answers to questions about water restrictions.

About Lakeland

The City of Lakeland, incorporated in January 1885, has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida. With a current population approaching 130,000 Lakeland continues to grow. It has been designated as a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census Bureau for over 30 years. With tourist attractions and gulf beaches only an hour away, Lakeland continues to capitalize on its ideal central Florida location along the I-4 corridor. The City owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third largest publicly owned utility in Florida, and it was one of the first to offer power in the Sunshine State in 1889.

For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit www.lakelandgov.net. Community members are also invited to follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Vimeo, Snapchat, and Nextdoor by searching lakelandgov.

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