South Florida has experienced several serious droughts in recent years. Behaving as if fresh water resources are limitless is a dangerous gamble. In November 1992, the City of Hollywood adopted a formal water conservation program to help ensure an ample supply of fresh water for now, and the future. A major component of Hollywood's Water Conservation Program is Hollywood's adopting an ordinance permanently limiting lawn and landscape irrigation. In March of 2001, the ordinance was amended to coincide with the South Florida Water Management District's restrictions to avoid confusion during emergency drought situations. The SFWMD recommends irrigation of lawns in South Florida every 5 to 7 days in the summer and every 10 to 14 days in the winter. Hearty rains can eliminate the need to water for as long as 2 weeks. Watering 3 times a week is really enough to keep Hollywood very green.

Restrictions: Landscape irrigation of new and existing installations, for all addresses, shall be restricted to the hours of 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. seven (7) days per week.

Exclusions – No Restrictions Apply If: Reclaimed wastewater is used for irrigation. Low-volume irrigation is used (a professional low-volume sprinkler system or watering using a hose with a self canceling nozzle). If applying pesticides, herbicides or fungicides and watering is required by manufacturers' instructions. Irrigating using water from water to air heat pumps. Maintenance of irrigation systems (each zone may only be tested once per week). New lawns and landscapes may be irrigated form noon to 1:00 p.m. DAILY for up to 30 days. A process is available for users seeking relief from the restrictions by filling an application for exception.

Residents and business owners must follow these rules to avoid fines. The first violation is cause for a written warning. After that, a fine will be levied at $50 for the first violation after warning, $100 for the second violation, and $200 for the third and subsequent violations within one year. Property owners are responsible for ensuring compliance. The irrigation restrictions apply to all properties in the City of Hollywood, including hotels, residences and businesses. The restrictions apply regardless of the source of irrigation water (public supply, private wells, lakes and canals.

Hollywood's Ordinance has been written on requirements of South Florida Water Management District, and other Florida areas' Ordinances. The Ordinance (Hollywood Code of Ordinances Chapter 51.116-119) provides for restrictions, exceptions and penalties. Please direct questions to the Regulatory Compliance Program at (954) 921-3414.