Q: Why are we in a Phase III Water Shortage?
- A: A Phase III Extreme Water Shortage has been declared due to ongoing drought conditions across portions of the District. Below-average rainfall, declining groundwater levels, and reduced river flows continue to place significant stress on regional water resources. Water shortage declarations are temporary measures used to help protect water supplies during extended dry periods. Conditions are monitored regularly, and additional restrictions may be implemented if conditions continue to worsen. To learn more about the Phase III Water Shortage, please visit the St Johns River Water Management site at https://www.sjrwmd.com/wateringrestrictions/.
Q: How does the Phase III Water Shortage effect me?
- A: Under a Phase III water shortage:
- Landscape irrigation is limited to one day a week and prohibited between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Irrigation of new plantings, including sod, is further restricted.
- Commercial, industrial, and institutional users must suspend certain non-essential water uses.
- Aesthetic water use is prohibited, and additional restrictions apply to activities such as street and pressure washing.
- Wasteful and unnecessary water use is prohibited.
- Residents, businesses, agricultural operations, and other water users are encouraged to proactively plan for continued dry conditions and the potential for additional restrictions.
Q: When can I water my lawn?
- A1: March-November (Daylight Saving Time)
- No watering from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Odd number addresses, or addresses ending with letters N-Z, or no address may water only on Wednesday and Saturday
- Even number addresses or those ending with A-M may water only on Thursday and Sunday
- Non-residential addresses may water only on Tuesday and Friday
- Apply up to ¾-inch or less of water each cycle
- A2: November – March (Standard Time)
- No watering from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Odd number addresses, or addresses ending with letters N-Z, or no address may water only on Saturday
- Even number addresses or those ending with A-M may water only on Sunday
- Non-residential addresses may water only on Tuesday
- Apply up to ¾-inch or less of water one time per week
Q: Can hand-watering of turf and ornamental plants be performed anytime?
- A: Hand-watering can be done anytime.
Q: What City of Jacksonville rules and regulations govern irrigation and fertilization?
- A: Ordinance Chapter 366.501 (Irrigation); Ordinance Chapter 366.601 (Fertilizer)
Q: How can I get a copy of this ordinance?
- A: Go to the Jacksonville online ordinance code....You may search for Chapter 366.501 or 366.601.
Q: How can I get an electronic copy of the irrigation and fertilizer brochure?
- A: Email EPB to get a copy of the irrigation or fertilizer brochure: EPB@coj.net
Q: Can violators of the irrigation schedule and fertilization practices be fined?
- A: Yes, violators of the irrigation schedule and fertilizer ordinance requirements may be issued a warning or a ticket.
Q: Will special watering allowances be granted for veriticutting?
- A: No special watering allowances shall be granted for veriticutting.
Q: Can too much water hurt the turf or the ornamental plants?
- A: Over watering promotes shallow root systems, makes grass and plants susceptible to diseases and pests.
Q: How do I calibrate my system for 3/4 - inch?
- A: Measure how much water your sprinkler is applying by placing some straight sided cans (tuna cans work great) to catch the water. Run the system long enough to collect a measurable quantity and note the time required. Adjust your run time so you do not exceed more than 3/4-inch of water.
Q: How do I use less water in my landscape?
- A: Choose the right plants for the right place, and apply the right amount of water. For more information go to: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ENH1113.
Q: What kind of turf fertilizer should I use?
- A: Consider buying package lawn fertilizer with at least 50% of the nitrogen in slow-release form. The three numbers in bold letters on most fertilizer bags represent Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium respectively. Use fertilizer with Nitrogen to Potassium ratio of 1:1 or 2:1. The middle number, Phosphorous, should be between zero (0) to 2. See the label for usage.
Q: What setting should I use on my spreader?
- A: Most fertilizer product label contains directions for determining the settings for your spreader.
Q: Can I store unused fertilizer for next year?
- A: Yes, unused fertilizer can be stored and reused provided the bag is properly closed and stored in a dry place. Be sure to breakup any clumps before placing in the spreader.
Q: When should I apply fertilizer?
- A: You can apply fertilizer anytime during the growing season. It is recommended withholding application of fertilizer to a lawn that is experiencing stress from prolonged periods of summer heat and drought.
Q: I am planning to de-thatch my lawn. Should I apply fertilizer before or after I de-thatch?
- A: Apply fertilizer after you de-thatch.
Q: Can I water in my fertilizer or pesticide after application?
- A: Yes, you are encouraged to water in fertilizers with 1/4-inch of water within 24 hours of application. Pesticides should also be watered in using 1/4-inch of water if it is required on the pesticide label or by your pest control operator.
Q: What is the fertilizer-free zone?
- Fertilizer must not be applied to impervious (non-porous) surfaces. Fertilizer may not be applied within 10 feet of any water body or wetland.