Reclaimed Water

Reclaimed water is domestic wastewater that has been treated and disinfected to a high degree through a multiple-stage advanced treatment process that eliminates pathogens (solids, organics, and viruses) and still retains nitrogen and phosphorus, such that it can be safely used to irrigate golf courses and residential lawns. Reclaimed water must meet strict water quality requirements established by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Although reclaimed water meets most of the drinking water standards and is safe for human contact, it is not intended for human or animal consumption.

Using reclaimed water conserves drinking water supplies and reduces non-beneficial discharges of domestic wastewater to surface waters. The County’s Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP) identified reclaimed water and conservation programs as the most cost-effective projects to reduce reliance on limited groundwater resources. These programs will ensure sustainability for future generations and uphold the high-quality service to Utility customers.

Good landscaping practices place the right plant in the right location. Occasionally, reclaimed water contains elevated levels of salts that can harm sensitive landscape plants. Florida-friendly plants that are salt tolerant and typically grow near our coast benefit most from reclaimed water. To minimize potential problems associated with using reclaimed water, monitor plants for signs of leaf yellowing or wilting. If it persists, consider drip irrigation to avoid direct contact of reclaimed water with plant leaves or replace plants with salt-tolerant species. Proper watering is important, and overwatering can cause harm.

Reclaimed water appears similar to potable water. The best way to identify reclaimed water is through the purple color of its delivery systems (officially known as Pantone Purple 522C). This includes rigid and flexible piping, meter boxes and meters, and sprinkler/irrigation heads. This may also include:

• English = Do Not Drink
• Spanish = No Beber

Yes, reclaimed water is highly treated and disinfected. For unrestricted public access, reclaimed water must meet strict standards of quality established by the FDEP. Reclaimed water is monitored and tested in St. Johns County to ensure quality standards are met. While it is not suitable for human or animal consumption, incidental physical contact with the water has no negative effects. Therefore, accidental splashing or spraying should not cause alarm.