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Reclaimed Water Information

Reclaimed water is wastewater effluent that has been highly treated and that meets the reclaimed water effluent criteria. These criteria, found in the North Carolina Administrative Code, ensure that the reclaimed water is protective of human health for non-potable contact.

Under North Carolina rules, reclaimed water can be used for:

  • Golf course and landscape irrigation
  • Dust control
  • Soil compaction
  • Non-potable processes such as concrete production and cooling water
  • Industrial and commercial toilet flush and fire prevention systems
    where there are separate, non-potable plumbing lines
  • Decorative ponds and fountains
  • Street sweeping
  • Vehicle washing
  • Sewer cleaning

Benefits of reclaimed water include:

  • Reduces stress on drinking water resources
  • Costs less than potable water
  • Reduces nutrient loading to waterways

Members of the general public should contact their local public works department to see if the town or city has been approved to distribute reclaimed water.

Because of drought conditions across North Carolina, many municipalities and industries have expressed an interest in using reclaimed water for non-potable water uses. The DWQ Aquifer Protection Section is responding to that need with an expedited permit process. Wastewater treatment plant, industry and business owners who are interested in developing a reclaimed water program can find additional guidance here.

To view the rules that guide reclaimed water criteria, system development, distribution and use, go to 15A NCAC 02T .0900.

Reclaimed water is NOT gray water. Gray water is water that has been used for showers, washing dishes or washing clothes. Gray water may contain high levels of pathogens. DWQ does not endorse the use of gray water for additional household needs. Instead, collect the water that is run while waiting for suitably hot water for dishes or showers and use that water on plants or for other household uses. Gray water facts.

For more information about the Division of Water Quality's Reclaimed Water Permitting Program, go to the Aquifer Protection Section Web site at: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/lau/reclaimed.html