Landscaper’s Guidelines for Use of Recycled Water

Redwood City’s recycled water meets stringent state standards for safety and water quality, but it is not intended for human consumption. There are specific state and federal rules governing its use. Failure to follow these rules may result in disconnection of your recycled water service. Following these rules will ensure the safe and efficient use of recycled water.

Watering Rules

• Responsibly use recycled water in accordance with the City’s Recycled Water Terms and Conditions.
• Irrigate ONLY between the hours of 9:00 pm and 6:00 am. Daytime operation is permitted to allow system inspections.
• Runoff onto sidewalks and streets is prohibited. Use your sprinkler’s timer features (Cycle & Soak) to water in shorter and multiple cycles that allows water to soak into the soil and avoid runoff.
• Check all sprinklers at least monthly during the watering season to make sure they are working properly and make repairs or adjustments as needed.
• Do not water when it is raining as it results in additional runoff. Set your irrigation timers to the off or rain mode while it is raining. Turn off your sprinkler timers during the rainy season (except when occasionally exercising valves to help prevent deterioration).
• Do not use drinking water for watering in any area designated for recycled water.

Installation and Repairs Rules

• Extra care must be taken to prevent cross-connections of recycled water piping to the potable water plumbing. That is why recycled water pipes and fittings are purple. Always use purple pipe when making repairs or adding to the recycled water system serving your business. Never connect purple pipe to non-purple pipe (except when working on converted systems).
• Contact your Site Supervisor if you have any questions or if you make any repairs or additions to your recycled water irrigation system.

Other Considerations

• Ensure that all valves, valve boxes, controllers and other appurtenances are identified for the use of recycled water and replace as necessary.
• Advisory signs must be placed at entrances to the facilities to inform the public that the site uses recycled water; signs must be replaced as necessary.
• A recycled water irrigation system must not use hose bibs. Purple locking caps must be used with all quick coupling valves connected to the recycled water system.
• Wash your hands with soap and water if you come in contact with recycled water. Avoid getting recycled water in your face or mouth. If you do, simply wash and rinse.
• Recycled water may cause water spotting on finished surfaces such as some paints, glass and chrome. Direct sprinkler sprays away from automobiles, windows and painted surfaces.

If you have any questions regarding these rules or the use of recycled water please contact the Redwood City Public Works Services Department at (650) 780-7464 Monday - Friday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm.

For more information visit our Web site at: www.redwooodcity.org/water.
In case of an emergency call (650) 780-7190.