Reclaimed Water System
Every gallon of reclaimed water is one gallon saved from Austin's lakes.
Reclaimed water is highly treated and recycled wastewater that would otherwise be discharged into the Colorado River. Instead, it is further filtered and disinfected for non-potable uses such as irrigation, cooling towers and toilet flushing. Although reclaimed water is not part of the drinking water supply, it meets over 90% of the criteria for drinking water. It is clear, odorless and harmless to humans through normal contact, and meets all state and federal requirements for non-potable use.
Every gallon of recycled water is one gallon saved from the Highland Lakes, our city’s primary water source. By conserving these precious natural resources and growing our reclaimed water network, we’re ensuring a sustainable future for all of Austin. Reclaimed water is also less expensive to use or treat and can cost as little as half the price of drinking water. Users can see a reduction in water fees by connecting to the system. For more information, contact us at reclaimedwater@austintexas.gov.
Expanding Reclaimed Water Service
Austin Water is currently expanding our reclaimed water system to deliver low-cost non-potable water to more customers across the city. View the reclaimed water system map (PDF) to see current coverage.
Active Construction Projects
Resources
In the United States, reclaimed water is always distributed through purple-colored pipes to distinguish it from drinking water. Reclaimed water customers must ensure that reclaimed water plumbing is not accidentally connected to potable water plumbing. Before receiving reclaimed water service, customers must complete an initial integrity test of both plumbing systems as required by plumbing code. Annual testing is also required and is typically conducted alongside backflow prevention device testing.
All testing is performed by a third party, with results submitted to Austin Water's Utility Compliance Services Division. Testing confirms there is no cross connection between the potable and reclaimed water systems by alternately pressurizing and depressurizing each system and monitoring for pressure changes. Alternative testing methods are available with advance approval.
Reclaimed water customers are also required to prevent backflows by installing a backflow prevention assembly on any drinking water service line and on reclaimed water service lines used for chemigation or fertigation. Learn more about the backflow prevention program.
Projects that receive retail water service from Austin Water are required to connect to the reclaimed water system if reclaimed service is available within 500 feet of the property boundary, measured along the closest practicable access route. Projects that receive retail service from a wholesale customer of Austin Water are not subject to this requirement.
For site development plans submitted before a proposed reclaimed water extension is constructed, connection may be considered voluntary and is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Voluntary Connection Incentive
Austin Water offers a rebate of up to $100,000 for voluntary connections to the reclaimed water system. See the Voluntary Reclaimed Connection rebate application (PDF) for details.
Signs are required at all reclaimed water hose bibs, faucets and storage tanks. Signs must include the words "Reclaimed Water, Do Not Drink" in both English and Spanish, be at least 8" x 8" and use lettering at least ½" tall. Reclaimed water piping within a building is subject to additional marking requirements — contact the City's Plumbing Department for details.
Download sample signs:
Wastewater from homes and businesses is treated at Austin Water's wastewater treatment plants. For reclaimed water, that treated effluent is further disinfected and filtered before entering the centralized reclaimed water system. Reclaimed water is treated to TCEQ Type I water quality standards.
Customers without access to reclaimed water service can use Austin Water's reclaimed water bulk water facilities at several locations in the Austin area. You will need to set up a bulk-fill water account to haul reclaimed water from these dispensing stations.
Using reclaimed water for toilet and urinal flushing is a recognized water conservation strategy eligible for LEED credits. Review the plumbing design guidance for reclaimed water fixtures (PDF) to ensure fixtures function properly with reclaimed water.
The alternative water permit application can be submitted during the site plan process, though it will be required at the building permit stage. Submitting early is recommended, particularly if you are using an alternate compliance method for the dye injection system.