Tampa watering restrictions: how long they last and where to find leak help

As of October 13, 2026, the regional drought order affecting Tampa runs through March 31, 2027. Keep your lawn irrigation on its assigned weekly day and within the permitted overnight window. For help reducing water waste, the City offers irrigation evaluations, leak-check guidance and water-saving devices. Its September 23 update explains the extension and assistance available.

What changes after the extension?

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s September 22 notice extends the existing Modified Phase III restrictions without changing them. It does not add watering days. The end date applies to that regional drought order; Tampa separately maintains year-round watering limits. Check the City’s current schedule before changing your timer when March ends.

Which watering day and hours apply inside Tampa?

The City’s schedule covers properties inside Tampa city limits that irrigate with city water or well water. Use the last digit of the street address to find the day below. A Tampa mailing address alone does not establish jurisdiction: properties outside the city should check their own local authority’s schedule.

For a property smaller than one acre, choose midnight to 4 a.m. OR 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., once on the assigned day. The City permits properties of one acre or more to use both windows on that day. Mixed-address and no-address common areas use Friday. Curtail irrigation when sufficient rain has fallen in the past 24 hours. See the official schedule and exceptions for hand watering, new sod and reclaimed water.

Where can you get free help?

Start with the Tampa Water Department’s conservation team. Email SaveWater@tampa.gov with your service address and a short description of the problem. Ask which program fits your property and whether you qualify before arranging a visit.

• Timer settings or uneven irrigation: request a free irrigation evaluation through the City’s How to Water Smarter page. The program includes help with controller settings, rain sensors and checking the system for leaks.
• A running toilet or dripping fixture: use the City’s leak-check guide. It explains common indoor and outdoor signs and links to device requests.
• Water-saving equipment: the conservation resources page links to indoor and outdoor kits, rain sensors and toilet flappers. Confirm current eligibility and availability with the department.

When should you call a plumber?

If you can see a plumbing leak or need help locating its source, arrange a plumbing assessment. The City’s leak guide recommends knowing the water shutoff location before a repair and asking a licensed plumber for help if you cannot find it. Avoid treating a higher bill alone as proof of a broken underground pipe.

For household plumbing concerns, contact Elite Rooter’s Tampa leak-detection team. Have the service address, affected fixture and when you noticed the problem ready. For a fuller explanation of meter checks and underground symptoms, see our underground water-leak guide.

You can reach the Tampa office at (813) 291-0358. Phone lines are answered 24/7. Service is scheduled Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.