Villagers with problem lawns won’t face fines during drought

Deed restriction enforcement related to water usage has been suspended in The Villages until July 1 due to drought conditions.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District declared a Phase II Water Shortage Order on Feb. 8, which imposed mandatory water use restrictions and prohibited deed restriction enforcement related to water.

Enforcement will continue of other restrictions unrelated to the water shortage, such as mold.

Mark Brionez, attorney for several community development districts, said that means deed restriction complaints won’t be pursued related to dead grass or sod replacement.

CDDs 1-4 approved the Water Shortage Order on Friday.

Affected restrictions include replacement of dead, dormant, stressed or missing sod; installation or replacement of turf grass or landscape materials; and restoration of lawn coverage to meet minimum standards.

Brionez said fines will be suspended during the period for cases already in the system.

Enforcement also will be suspended for mandated power washing of homes, building exteriors, driveways, sidewalks, walls and fences.

Homeowners may voluntarily replace sod or landscaping provided they meet water restrictions. Currently watering is allowed once weekly.

Water users in the Southwest water district also face a 5 percent surcharge for their usage.