Is Pressure Washing Allowed During Manatee County's Water Restrictions?

Yes, with limits. Under Manatee County’s current water shortage order, pressure washing is allowed once per year or when preparing a surface for painting or sealing. HOAs are also barred from requiring pressure washing for appearance standards during this order. Since these rules can change, check the current status before scheduling large-scale cleaning, and we’re happy to help you stay compliant.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Modified Phase III Water Shortage Order limits certain water uses across the region, including irrigation and outdoor cleaning. Pressure washing falls under a specific carve-out rather than a full ban, allowing it once per year or before painting or sealing a surface.

Yes, HOAs cannot require homeowners to pressure wash purely for appearance standards while this order is active. If you’ve received a compliance letter, it’s worth confirming whether the request falls within what the order actually permits.

Confirm the current order status before scheduling, keep cleaning to the permitted once-per-year allowance unless prepping for paint or sealing, and check with your service provider that they’re aware of the active restrictions before booking.

The order is active through October 1, 2026, based on the most recently confirmed status. Because these orders can be extended, modified, or lifted, it’s worth confirming the current status directly before relying on this date for planning.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) issues and enforces the order, with Manatee County Utilities also involved in local compliance and communication about active restrictions.