Recycled water (also called Reclaimed Water) refers to multi-stage treatment of municipal wastewater that is processed at a water recycling (or reclamation) plant. Recycled water is virtually colorless and odorless, and is permissible for full-body human contact but not suitable for direct human consumption.
Gray water is untreated residential wastewater that does not come from a toilet or garbage disposal (i.e., bathroom sink, bathtub, shower, laundry, etc.). Gray water is regulated by the State of California, and a building permit must be obtained before installing a gray water system to collect and send this water to the resident’s landscaping, but water quality is not routinely monitored. Recycled water, on the other hand, is water that ...Read More
Yes. However, recycled water must be used within established guidelines, regulations and permit requirements. Recycled water projects are designed and operated with an emphasis to protect public health and safety. Regular monitoring by the District and county public health agencies ensures that the District supplies a highly treated and disinfected product which meets all California Department Public Health Standards.
A number of regulatory agencies have adopted requirements that must be followed when producing, distributing, and using recycled water. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has adopted strict public health and safety requirements and guidelines, which help protect the public from any potential risk associated with use of recycled water. These requirements are described in CCCPH and 22 of the California Code of Regulations: www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/recycled_water Permits to oversee the production, ...Read More
Recycled water is primarily used for landscape irrigation. However, recycled water can be used for virtually all non-potable applications within the District. This includes some industrial processes, cooling towers for mechanical systems, soil compaction and dust control for construction projects, commercial nursery and agricultural irrigation systems, and for possible recreational and wetland restoration projects.
Costs less than drinking water. Contains nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which promote plant growth. Reduces stress on drinking water supplies. Drought-resistant source of irrigation water.
Recycled water must be conveyed in a separate distribution system. It is completely isolated from all existing potable water or sewer systems.
It is the policy of the District to price recycled water at a sufficient discount from the price of potable water to make the use of recycled water for irrigation and other suitable uses cost effective for new development, and result in savings sufficient to encourage existing customers of the District to convert existing uses to recycled water where appropriate. Visit our Rates and Fees page for more information.
Recycled water is generally used in large landscaped areas or commercial properties. If you are interested in connecting recycled water and think your property may be eligible, please contact Alex Zaragoza, Cross-Connection Control Specialist at or at 562-383-2350.
All sites where recycled water is used are required to designate a recycled water user Site Supervisor. Site Supervisors are required to have appropriate training to assure proper operation of recycled water facilities, worker protection, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. To help recycled water users fulfill their training obligations, free classes are currently being offered periodically throughout the year at various locations by the Los Angeles County Sanitation ...Read More
