Cape Coral asks residents to cut lawn watering to once a week amid drought

CAPE CORAL, Fla. (WINK)—The City of Cape Coral is urging residents to voluntarily reduce lawn watering to once per week as drought conditions persist across Southwest Florida.

City officials are asking residents to help conserve the community's water supply until the rainy season arrives. Residents are also reminded to turn off their irrigation systems when it rains and check that their rain sensors are functioning properly to prevent overwatering.

Lee County enforces a watering schedule that applies only to properties in unincorporated Lee County. Other municipalities, including Cape Coral, have their own irrigation rules that apply within city limits.

Most properties in Cape Coral follow the regular two-day-a-week irrigation schedule. One area of the city is under additional restrictions due to a severe water shortage declared by the South Florida Water Management District.

Within the restricted area, properties using private wells must follow a strict irrigation ban. Properties connected to City water remain on the regular two-day-a-week schedule.

To help preserve the community's water supply, residents are encouraged to check sprinkler systems for leaks and overspray. Officials also recommend using drought-tolerant plants and mulch to retain soil moisture, sweeping driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them off, and running full loads in washing machines and dishwashers to maximize efficiency.

For official watering schedules, updates and additional conservation tips, visit [CapeCoral.gov/WaterConservation].