Cape Coral residents are receiving letters about new water restrictions due to dangerously low aquifer levels, requiring them to connect to the city's irrigation system within 180 days.
Sprinklers with water are not a sight you'll likely see in certain parts of Cape Coral these days, as this year's drought has become so severe that new water regulations are being implemented.
The new rules follow previous reports about residents on the Mid-Hawthorn Aquifer who can no longer water their lawns.
Residents in affected areas of Cape Coral, particularly around Diplomat Parkway East and Northeast 13th Avenue, are receiving letters detailing even stricter water restrictions. These areas are already under stringent regulations due to dangerously low aquifer levels.
The letter informs residents that they must connect to the city's irrigation system within 180 days, or about six months.
Residents will be charged for irrigation either upon connection or after 180 days, whichever comes first. Those with in-ground sprinkler systems need a free permit and inspection to connect.
Additional requirements include having a plumber perform the connection, repairing any damage to city property before a permit can close, and installing a special outdoor faucet, known as a kit-a connection, by the city.
The city clarified that if residents do not receive a letter, these requirements will not affect them.
Cape Coral officials said most residents have already paid the connection fees, but if residents want more water than their property is set up for, they may see extra fees.
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