A regional drought has triggered stricter water use rules for Flagler County residents and property owners. The St. Johns River Water Management District has declared a Phase III Extreme Water Shortage Order affecting Flagler County and multiple counties across Northeast Florida. The City of Palm Coast is urging residents to review the new rules and update their irrigation systems accordingly.
Why the Restrictions Are in Place
The St. Johns River Water Management District cited below-average rainfall, dropping groundwater levels, and reduced river flows as the reasons behind the declaration. Officials say these conditions have placed significant stress on the region’s water supply, prompting temporary restrictions to help protect available resources during the extended dry period.
The New Irrigation Schedule
Under Phase III, all water users — including those on private wells — are now limited to watering their landscapes just one day per week. The schedule is based on address number:
- Odd-numbered addresses: Saturday only
- Even-numbered addresses: Sunday only
- Non-residential properties: Tuesday only
In addition, landscape irrigation is prohibited between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on any day. This expands the previously restricted hours, so residents with automatic sprinkler systems should update their timer settings to ensure watering falls outside that window.
Who Is Not Affected
Residents who have a retail reclaimed water meter are not subject to the restricted irrigation schedule. Reclaimed water is highly treated recycled water that does not draw from potable groundwater supplies. Residents may also notice irrigation running in parks, road medians, and common areas during the shortage — those systems use reclaimed water as well.
Other Restricted Activities
Beyond lawn irrigation, the District has also placed limitations on certain non-essential water uses. These include pressure washing and washing vehicles, boats, and mobile equipment. Residents are encouraged to visit the District’s website for the full list of restrictions.
What Could Come Next
The District said it will continue monitoring drought conditions across the region. If the situation worsens, additional restrictions beyond Phase III could be put in place.
Where to Get More Information
Residents can review the full Phase III order, watering schedules, and conservation guidance on the St. Johns River Water Management District’s website:
- Watering restrictions: https://www.sjrwmd.com/wateringrestrictions/
- Official news release: https://www.sjrwmd.com/2026/05/district-declares-phase-iii-extreme-water-shortage/
The post Drought Forces New Watering Restrictions in Flagler County — Here’s What You Need to Know first appeared on Flagler County Buzz.
