Pinellas County, Florida -- While you're still sleeping, Randy Martin is searching.

"Patrolling the area and checking for violations of the water restrictions," Martin explained. He's a compliance officer with Pinellas County.

Cruising a new neighborhood early each morning, Martin watches and listens for the signs of sprinklers. Each address has just one day a week when automatic watering is OK.

Tighter water restrictions are now in effect for thousands in the Bay Area. You can find all of the details on the new Tampa Bay water restrictions at this link.

The new rules apply to drinking water, well water, and lake or pond water. Martin tests the water from a sprinkler head, to make sure it comes from one of those forbidden sources.

Then he'll type a report and stroll up to the front porch with a notice. Sometimes he'll make that walk a handful of times on a single street.

"We are giving flyers out and it's a courtesy notice to let the people know that the restrictions have changed," Martin said.

Martin figures most folks simply don't know that Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough counties just tightened up their watering rules. But starting on March 28, that won't be an excuse.

"On the 28th, then we start -- if we see water violations -- they will automatically get a $193 fine," Martin said.

"I don't like giving the $193 fine any more than they don't like getting them. Someone has to do it, and I've been elected to do so."

Water levels are running low, and one of the Bay area's key reservoirs is getting repairs. So it's Martin's job to spot people stealing the drops that we all need to share.

Click here for a breakdown of the new lawn watering rules for Tampa Bay.

Grayson Kamm, 10 News