A new bill has been filed in the Florida Senate — the Landscape Irrigation Standards and Watering Restrictions Act (SB 508) — aiming to modernize and standardize irrigation practices statewide. If enacted, these changes would go into effect July 1, 2026, and would impact new installations, major modifications, and long-term water use strategies across Florida.
You can view the official bill text on the Florida Senate website and the industry summary published by the Florida Irrigation Society (FIS) for full legislative details.
Why Florida Is Proposing New Irrigation Standards
Florida’s population growth, extreme weather cycles, and rising water demand have placed increased pressure on the state’s aquifers and reclaimed water systems. Irrigation is a major contributor to this demand — and the new legislation aims to address it through:
Water Conservation & Efficiency
The bill places strong emphasis on reducing water waste and encouraging the use of weather-based controllers, micro-irrigation in plant beds, and efficient zoning. These practices align irrigation with actual landscape needs rather than fixed schedules.
Consistency Across Cities & Counties
Current irrigation rules vary widely from one municipality to another. SB 508 seeks to create a unified, statewide standard so contractors and property owners can follow a clear, consistent framework.
Professional Oversight
One of the bill’s most important components is the requirement that irrigation systems be installed, altered, or maintained by a licensed irrigation contractor (or the property owner). This aims to improve system quality, reduce failures, and ensure long-term functionality — something the industry has long advocated for.
Authoritative Sources:
- Florida Irrigation Society summary
- Official Florida Senate bill text
What the New Standards Would Require
If SB 508 becomes law, property owners and contractors can expect several key changes:
1. Licensing Requirements
Only licensed irrigation contractors would be permitted to install, modify, maintain, or connect a system to a water supply.
This protects consumers from improper installations that waste water or damage landscapes.
2. Mandatory Irrigation Plans for New Systems & Major Renovations
Irrigation plans would need to consider:
- Soil type
- Plant material
- Sun exposure
- Water flow and pressure
- Head-to-head sprinkler coverage
- Separate zones for turf and landscape beds
This ensures systems are designed intentionally — not pieced together without understanding site conditions.
3. Efficiency Requirements
The bill encourages:
- Weather-based controllers
- Micro-irrigation for non-turf areas
- Using reclaimed or low-quality water where feasible
- Avoiding runoff, overspray, and inefficient sprinkler types
4. Exemptions for Agriculture & Certain Specialty Uses
The proposed rules would not apply to agricultural irrigation, nurseries, greenhouses, golf courses, playgrounds, athletic fields, or cemeteries.
How This Impacts Homeowners, Builders, and HOAs
Homeowners
- Expect more oversight and higher installation standards.
- Long-term benefits include improved efficiency and lower water bills.
- Repairs and modifications will need to be performed by licensed professionals.
Builders & Developers
- New construction projects may require irrigation plans, inspections, and permitting.
- Coordinating early with licensed contractors will avoid delays and ensure compliance.
- Smart irrigation will likely become the standard for new builds.
HOAs & Property Managers
- Large communities stand to benefit most from reduced water waste and standardized practices.
- Upgrading older systems may become necessary to meet compliance on future projects.
- Documentation, inspections, and routine maintenance will play a bigger role.
What This Means for the Industry — And Why We Support It
This bill represents a meaningful step toward elevating the irrigation trade. It encourages:
- Higher workmanship standards
- Better protection of Florida’s natural resources
- More consistent outcomes for customers
- Increased accountability and safety
As irrigation becomes more technical — with smart controllers, micro-irrigation, flow monitoring, and water-saving innovations — proper training and licensing are more important than ever.
Our Commitment to Professional, Compliant, High-Quality Irrigation
At Shaffer’s Irrigation & Outdoor Lighting, we welcome the direction Florida is taking.
As a licensed and insured irrigation contractor, we understand the importance of proper system design, compliance with evolving standards, and protecting both your property and Florida’s water resources.
Our team works daily in Florida’s unique climate and soil conditions, and we know firsthand how thoughtful planning and the right equipment can completely transform system performance and longevity.
Whether you’re considering an upgrade, planning a new build, or simply want a more efficient system, we’re here to guide you with clarity, honesty, and expertise — today and as the standards evolve.