Water is too precious a resource to use just once. Recycled water offers a new water source for non-drinking purposes in San Francisco. Recycled water will replace potable water currently being used for applications that do not require drinking water quality, such as – park and golf course irrigation – thus conserving valuable drinking water.
The City and County of San Francisco’s Recycled Water Ordinances require property owners to install recycled water systems for use within the designated recycled water use areas under the following circumstances:
• New, remodeled or converted buildings and all subdivisions with a total cumulative area of 40,000 square feet or more
• New and existing irrigated areas of 10,000 square feet or more
The goal of the ordinances is to maximize the use of recycled water. Buildings and facilities within the designated recycled water use areas are required to use recycled water for all uses authorized by the State of California.
Another Important Recycled Water Ordinance
The CCSF enacted Ordinance 175-91 in 1991 restricting the use of potable water for soil compaction and dust control activities associated with any construction or demolition project within the City and County.
Additional information can be found at the links below.
Recycled Water Ordinances Brochure
Procedures for Developers
Recycled Water Plumbing Codes
Statutes and Regulations