WILDWOOD, FL (352today.com) – Wildwood officials are encouraging residents and businesses to practice enhanced conservation measures, following the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s declaration of a Modified Phase III “Extreme” Water Shortage and associated water use restrictions.
The updated restrictions are effective Apr. 3 through July 1, 2026.
In Wildwood, as well as all of Sumter County, lawn watering is restricted to no more than once per week during designated times on a specific day based on the property’s address number.
“Rainfall and water supplies are cyclical,” said City Manager Jason McHugh. “While they typically rise significantly during the rainy season, they can drop to levels of concern during the dry season. We want to emphasize the importance of responsible water use, particularly during this time, and will be ramping up our own efforts in and around city facilities.”
The city has reduced irrigation and limited operational hours of ornamental fountains. It will continue sharing information with its utility customers but does not plan to implement a water shortage surcharge.
Exceptions to SWFWMD’s restrictions apply to specific situations. For details and more information, visit tinyurl.com/SWFWMD-Restrictions.
Residents in The Villages® sections of Wildwood receive water through a separate utility provider and should see districtgov.org/services/utilities/ for additional guidance.