Question 1

What is Reclaimed Water?

Accepted Answer

Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater, which we can use for irrigation and other uses to extend our water supplies. Up to 50 percent of a community’s drinking water is used for irrigation. We could replace much of this with reclaimed water.

Question 2

How can we obtain reclaimed water service for our community?

Accepted Answer

Reclaimed water service in Hillsborough County is presently available on a case by case basis. We will work with homeowner associations to determine the feasibility and cost involved to construct a reclaimed water distribution system to their subdivision. A member of the homeowner association or neighborhood representative should contact us at WaterDept@HCFL.gov to obtain more information.

Question 3

What are some of the benefits of reclaimed water?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of the potable (drinking) water supply
Less expensive than potable water
Clear and odorless
High-quality water source for irrigating industrial and natural systems needs
Reduces fertilizer use, as some nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus remain
Reduces stress on drinking water supplies
Reduces disposal into waterways, which can help reduce nutrient loads in bays and rivers

Question 4

Can I drink reclaimed water or use it to fill my pool or hot tub?

Accepted Answer

No. Reclaimed water is not suitable for human consumption, nor is it allowed for use in pools or hot tubs.

Question 5

Can I eat fruits or vegetables irrigated with reclaimed water?

Accepted Answer

You can only use reclaimed water on crops that will be peeled, skinned, cooked, or thermally processed before consumption. Indirect application methods, such as ridge or furrow irrigation, drip irrigation, or a subsurface distribution system that precludes direct contact are allowed for edible crops that are not peeled, skinned, cooked, or thermally processed before consumption.

Question 6

Is reclaimed water harmful to plants or grass?

Accepted Answer

Reclaimed water is safe for most plants and lawn grasses. However, a few plants, such as certain species of azaleas and roses, are sensitive to the slightly higher chloride (salt) content of reclaimed water and care should be taken when watering these plants.

Question 7

Does reclaimed water have an odor or does it cause staining?

Accepted Answer

No. Other than a slight chlorine scent, reclaimed water has no odor and there is no staining.

Question 8

What does reclaimed water cost?

Accepted Answer

See Rate Schedule

Monthly charges are for a flat rate and metered reclaimed water customers with connections of 1 inch or smaller.

Question 9

Who is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the reclaimed water system?

Accepted Answer

Hillsborough County is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the reclaimed water transmission and distribution lines. This includes the reclaimed water curb stop located in the County easement of the property. Homeowners are responsible for any repairs or maintenance from the reclaimed water box to their irrigation system that is located on their private property.

Question 10

Reclaimed water operating guidelines

Accepted Answer

Annually, we are asked by the regulatory agencies that govern the use of reclaimed water to share the reclaimed water operating guidelines. View the annual reclaimed water notice.

Reclaimed Water

Reclaimed water information and resources

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