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1. Why was the water shortage order lifted in some counties but not others?

Groundwater levels in some, but not all, regions of the District rebounded following record rainfall from two tropical storms. The order was rescinded only for those areas where groundwater levels improved significantly.

2. We’ve received a lot of rain lately. Do we still need restrictions?

Yes. Recent rains haven’t been enough to reverse the effects of long-term, historic drought. To stretch our present water supply until it is replenished, all water users are asked to conserve.

3. My water comes from my private well. Do the water restrictions apply to me?

Yes. The restrictions apply to all water users whether their water comes from a private well or a public utility.

4. If our groundwater is going to Jacksonville, why do I have to follow restrictions when people living there do not?

Groundwater is a shared resource so we all must share in conserving it. We don’t know to what extent neighboring cities may be responsible for low groundwater levels that are impacting our rivers and springs. We do know that we shouldn’t wait for others to act before we reduce our own water use. This is our opportunity to become leaders in water conservation for our region and state. Together we’ll set the example.

5. How can I tell which water management district I live in?

The Suwannee district covers all or parts of 15 counties. If you own property, your tax bill will list your water management district. You can also call 386.362.1001 to find out if you live in the Suwannee district.

6. I see farmers watering fields at all hours, for long periods of time. Don’t they have restrictions?

Yes. The water shortage order places restrictions on the use of overhead irrigation systems, end guns, and other inefficient water use. Most farmers already have consumptive use permits that require the use of conservation best management practices. To water large plots of farmland, irrigation systems sometimes must operate nearly round-the-clock. To offset the extended time periods, farmers may retrofit their systems to low-pressure and low-volume, which use less water. The use of treated wastewater for irrigation is exempt from restrictions.

7. Who enforces the restrictions?

Violation of the water shortage order is a second-degree misdemeanor (Chapter 40B-21, F.A.C. and Section 373, Florida Statutes) punishable by 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. City and county officials and local law enforcement agencies are authorized and required to enforce the order. The District encourages conservation education first. As a last resort the District will refer violations to local law enforcement for appropriate response. If a city or county has its own irrigation ordinance, violations may be subject to associated penalties.

8. How do I report a violation?

The most convenient way is to fill out the Water Restrictions Violation Reporting Form on the District’s website: www.mysuwanneeriver.com/watershortage. The reports will be handled by District staff or routed to an appropriate enforcement official. You may also phone 386.362.1001 or 800.226.1066, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

9. My home owners association (HOA) requires that all lawns be kept lush and green or residents will be fined. If I comply with the water shortage order and my lawn turns brown or dies, can the HOA issue

Chapter 373.185(3)(b), Florida Statutes addresses this. The following excerpt (see italics) should be helpful in working with your HOA, which may not be aware of the law.
(a) The Legislature finds that the use of Florida-friendly landscaping and other water use and pollution prevention measures to conserve or protect the state’s water resources serves a compelling public interest and that the participation of homeowners’ associations and local governments is essential to the state’s efforts in water conservation and water quality protection and restoration.
(b) A deed restriction or covenant may not prohibit or be enforced so as to prohibit any property owner from implementing Florida-friendly landscaping on his or her land or create any requirement or limitation in conflict with any provision of part II of this chapter or a water shortage order, other order, consumptive use permit, or rule adopted or issued pursuant to part II of this chapter.