Did you know that 2023 was an unusually dry year for Lee County and we received 10.5” fewer inches of rainfall than in a typical year?
As the population of Lee County keeps growing, the demand for water keeps increasing. Even though Lee County receives a large amount of rainfall, it arrives mostly during the rainy season when demands are low. Our highest demand for water comes during the dry season when our population increases due to our winter and spring visitors, along with a high demand for irrigation.
To help with water conservation in our area, the Lee Board of County Commissioners recently amended the
Lee County Water Conservation Ordinance. With the implementation of the amended ordinance, from the beginning of February through the end of May there is a one-day-a-week watering schedule in place for unincorporated Lee County. Odd-numbered addresses may only water on Saturdays and even-numbered addresses and common areas may water on Sundays. Also, no watering can occur from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Be water smart and help Lee County and Captain Conservation spread the word about the amended water conservation ordinance as well as why it is important to conserve water and the best ways to help.
When can I water:
Odd-Numbered Address
(ending in 1,3,5,7,9) | Saturdays | Midnight to 9 a.m. and
5 p.m. to midnight |
Even-Numbered Address (ending in 0,2,4,6,8); or
No Address | Sundays | Midnight to 9 a.m. and
5 p.m. to midnight |
Ways you can be a Conservation Superhero:
- Comply with the new ordinance and reduce at-home irrigation to one day per week.
- Limit irrigation to when the sun is down (dusk to dawn) to ensure maximum absorption.
- Set sprinklers to water the lawn or garden only - not the street or sidewalk.
- Raise your lawn mower cutting height - longer grass blades help shade each other, cut down on
evaporation and inhibit weed growth.
- Turn off garden hoses when not in use. Use an automatic shut off nozzle.
- Limit washing vehicles and driveways.
- Do not let the water run while shaving or brushing teeth.
- Take short showers instead of tub baths. Turn off the water flow while soaping or shampooing.
- Repair leaking faucets and toilets.
- Plant Florida-friendly foliage and plants which are naturally acclimated to our climate and require less watering and maintenance.
- Check the flapper valve inside your toilet tank to ensure it’s a good fit and minimize water waste.
- Spread the word - talk to your neighbors, friends and family members about the importance of conserving water!
- Get the kids involved - coloring sheets are available below for a fun and engaging activity the whole family can enjoy.
Interact with Captain Conservation
Have fun completing these coloring sheets.
Lee County’s Water Conservation Ordinance
Please note: While the Lee County ordinance applies to those in unincorporated Lee County, a comprehensive list of local rules can be found at
www.sfwmd.gov/mywateringdays.
For questions or to report irrigation violations please call 239-533-8109.