Fort Myers Water Restrictions 2026

Fort Myers residents on Lee County Utilities can sign up for free water use alerts at the utility’s website.

Shade your air conditioning unit with landscaping to reduce cooling costs without increasing irrigation demand.

Water deeply (0.75 in per session) on your two allowed days rather than frequent shallow watering to encourage deep root growth.

Replace turf in low-traffic areas with drought-tolerant Florida-Friendly ground covers like Sunshine Mimosa or Perennial Peanut.

Install a smart irrigation controller with a rain sensor – required by Florida law and saves up to 30% water.

Mow at the highest setting for your grass type; taller blades promote deeper roots and reduce heat stress.

Apply slow-release potassium fertilizer in spring to improve drought and heat tolerance.

Check for leaks in your irrigation system monthly – a single stuck valve can waste 500+ gallons overnight.

Group plants with similar water needs together (hydrozoning) to eliminate overwatering in mixed beds.

Consider installing a rain barrel on downspouts – collected rainwater can be used for hand-watering without restriction.

Avoid washing cars in the driveway with a hose; use a commercial car wash that recycles water instead.