OCALA, Fla. (Nov. 8, 2023) – The City of Ocala, along with the St. Johns River Water Management District, reminds residents to reset automatic sprinkler systems. Winter water restrictions are effective immediately. During the winter months, irrigation restrictions are in effect for the city on specific days and no irrigation should occur between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. City of Ocala residents are asked to water their lawns no more than once a week.
“As cooler weather sets in, your lawns and landscapes require far less water than during the summer months,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director, Mike Register. “By reducing irrigation, we not only protect our water resources, but homeowners also have the opportunity to see savings on their water bill.”
During Eastern Standard Time (early November through mid-March), residents using irrigation are asked to comply with the following landscape irrigation schedule:
- Odd numbered or no address water on Saturdays
- Even numbered addresses water on Sundays
- Non-residential addresses water on Tuesdays
- Daily, no irrigation is allowed between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Odd-numbered addresses include addresses ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9. Even numbered addresses include addresses ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8.
During winter months, irrigation may not be needed depending on the amount of rainfall received and the type of grass. The University of Florida recommends applying ½ to ¾ inch of water to turfgrass when grass begins to show signs of drought. Overwatering can cause undesirable weeds, fungus, and mold, and weaken grass roots. These restrictions are designed to preserve groundwater supplies, maintain healthy yards, and protect water quality during winter months.
The city of Ocala is governed by the St. Johns River Water Management District and follows the irrigation restrictions administered by the district.
For more information, visit https://www.sjrwmd.com/wateringrestrictions/ or call 352-351-6772.
