Water Department Temporarily Changing Disinfection Process
The Tampa Water Department will temporarily change its water disinfection process from Friday, May 29, 2026, to Friday, June 19, 2026. Customers may notice a slight change in the smell and taste of their drinking water during this time. The water remains safe to drink and use.
What is happening: The department will use chlorine instead of monochloramine (a mix of ammonia and chlorine) in its water treatment process. Chlorine is a strong disinfectant that inhibits the growth of bacteria in our water mains, service lines, and water.
This is a routine measure that is practiced throughout the Tampa Bay region, and by other public water systems around the country.
Customers with a sensitivity to chlorine: Customers who are sensitive to chlorine may notice a stronger smell or taste of chlorine during this switchover period. To minimize this effect, the Tampa Water Department recommends:
- Run the tap for a few minutes before using water.
- Fill a pitcher of water and let it sit for several hours to allow any residual chlorine to evaporate.
- Consider installing a carbon filter on kitchen/bathroom faucets or shower heads, or replacing existing filters with new ones.
Populations with special considerations: Individuals and business owners who already take special steps to remove chloramine from tap water, such as dialysis centers, medical facilities, and aquatic pet owners, will want to take the same precautions during this temporary switch to chlorine.
For more information, contact City of Tampa Utilities at (813) 274-8811 or visit tampa.gov/ChlorineDisinfection.