Miami-Dade County's permanent watering restrictions have been expanded due to drought conditions

The South Florida region has experienced approximately 6.5 inches of decreased rainfall from the time period of November 2019 through March 2020 and as a result Miami-Dade County is classified by the U.S. Drought Monitor as “Abnormally Dry.” While Miami-Dade County already has permanent watering restrictions in place, additional limitations have been implemented to mirror the more stringent order recently issued by the South Florida Water Management District.

No watering is permitted at any time between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

If residents live in odd-numbered addresses, watering is permitted on Wednesdays and Saturdays. If the property is an even address, then watering is scheduled for Thursdays and Sundays. Watering should take place on the appropriate days before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Never water during both irrigation windows and apply no more than 3/4-inch to 1 inch of water per week on lawns and landscapes and only as needed to supplement rainfall.

April is Water Conservation Month - as it is traditionally one of the driest of the year - and marks the peak demand season for water utilities. Outdoor water use, including irrigation, consumes half of a home’s overall water usage. The department offers free landscape assessments to homes that have a functioning in-ground irrigation system in place regardless of water source. If homeowners implement assessment recommendations, they can earn up to $500 a year for five years in rebates.

WASD also has many indoor rebate options that can help customers conserve water and lower their water bill such as replacing toilets and showerheads with high efficiency models. For more information on all of WASD’s rebates, visit the department’s Conservation page.

It is the priority of the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department to provide safe, reliable service to its customers. For additional information about Department services and programs, visit the WASD website.