Tampa water restrictions are still happening, even with the rain

Added: 2026-05-27

[00:00:00]don't be fooled by our recent afternoon storms, Tampa officials are still cracking down on water use as drought conditions across the Bay area are still in a deficit.

[00:00:07]>> Yeah, city leaders say that more than 430 watering citations have been issued at this point and it's a sign that they are patrolling your neighborhoods.

[00:00:14]They're warning right now that enforcement is only expected to increase. 10 Tampa Bay news reporter Ash Patel is live from Tampa City Hall and those citations are up, Asha.

[00:00:26]Caitlin and Jameson, good morning. Yes, they're up nearly 30% compared to this time last year and some homes officials say are using more than 10,000 gallons a month. So, I want you guys to take a look at your screen right now. These water restrictions went into effect December 1st and those rules are right there on your screen. Since then, more than 430 watering citations have been issued. Residents are limited to using automatic irrigation systems 1 day a week during certain hours with fine starting at $100 for violations. City leaders say they're also helping residents cut those costs through free irrigation evaluations, water saving devices, and drought-friendly landscaping help. And they say customers using those services are saving about 5,000 gallons of water each month. And later this morning, Mayor Jane Castor and water officials are expected to lay out the next steps during this drought and one of those next steps could be increasing enforcement. Now, I will be there and I will be sure to let you know what comes out of that. But for now, I'm live in Tampa, Asha Patel, 10 Tampa Bay news.