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Home\Advocacy\Advocacy in Action

Advocacy in Action

The WateReuse Association advocates for policies and funding to support water reuse every day. “Advocacy in Action” is a central repository for our advocacy action items and resources, including letters to Congress, policy analyses, fact sheets, and more. This tool allows members to track our advocacy and serves as a resource for members when communicating with their specific congressional delegations.

  • WateReuse Association Applauds Introduction of Industrial Water Reuse Tax Credit Bill

    April 17, 2025

    For Immediate ReleaseContact: Ben Glickstein | bglickstein@watereuse.org | (571) 445-5513 On Thursday, April 17, Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Linda Sanchez (D-CA), and Brad Schneider (D-IL) introduced the Advancing Water Reuse Act (H.R.2940) which aims to catalyze the use of recycled water by manufacturers, data centers, and other industrial entities. While nearly 70 percent of the…

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  • Water Week Recap: Administration and Congressional Leaders Highlight Water Reuse as National Priority

    April 11, 2025

    Over 700 water sector professionals gathered in Washington, DC this week to take part in the annual National Water Policy Fly-In, organized by the WateReuse Association and other national water sector associations. The event brought together municipal utility leaders, industry representatives, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials, and elected representatives to discuss federal water policy…

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The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act

In November 2021, President Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) into law. Now, WateReuse Association is dedicated to ensuring the timely distribution of the water reuse-related funds it contains. Keep an eye on this page for the latest updates.

The IIJA invests $1 billion over five years in water recycling programs for the Western United States. This is a historic investment in water recycling, which until now has received roughly $65 million per year through the Bureau of Reclamation. The bill also directs the Administration to establish a federal Interagency Working Group on Water Reuse, which will break down silos, leverage resources throughout the federal family, and facilitate stakeholder engagement on water recycling.

WateReuse Association and our many members worked tirelessly to secure these important investments.

To help our members navigate the Act, WateReuse created a guide detailing the bill’s contents and how WateReuse members can access these new resources and tools.

  • Guide to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
  • Member Thank You from Executive Director Pat Sinicropi
  • More Info: Congress Passes Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act

Policy Briefs: The Case for Investment in Water Reuse

Investing in Water Reuse for Climate Change Mitigation, Adaptation, and Economic Resiliency

Our climate policy brief explains why it is vitally important for the nation to invest in water recycling to build resilience, manage energy demands, support public and environmental health, and ensure America’s economic prosperity.

View and Download

Access to Safe & Affordable Water: The Case for Investment in Water Reuse

Recycled water programs are a critical component of America’s current and future water resources portfolio. They are helping communities stabilize water rates, sustain economic activity, and address environmental and infrastructure challenges.

View and Download

Administration Advocacy

The executive branch includes the president, vice president, the Cabinet, executive departments, independent agencies, and other boards, commissions, and committees. The Administration carries out and enforces laws.

  • Joint water association letter to U.S. EPA urging full funding for SRF programs (February 20, 2025)
  • Recommendations to the Donald Trump transition team (November 6, 2024)

Past Administrations

2020 - 2024
  • Letter to the U.S. EPA on Draft Guidance for “Applying the Supreme Court’s County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund Decision in the Clean Water Act Section 402 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Program to Discharges through Groundwater.”
  • Joint Water Sector Letter to President Joe Biden urging full funding of Clean Water and Drinking Water SRFs in the FY25 Budget (December 12, 2023)
  • Letter to the Made in America Office, Office of Management and Budget, regarding Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Grants (August 17, 2023)
  • Comment Letter on PFAS CERCLA designation (August 11, 2023)
  • Letter to the Bureau of Reclamation on Title XVI-WIIN Project Funding Cap Increase (August 10, 2023)
  • Letter to the U.S. EPA on proposed rule to establish Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for certain PFAS (May 30, 2023)
  • Joint Water Sector Letter to President Joe Biden on State Revolving Funds in the FY24 Budget (February 2, 2023)
  • Letter to the U.S. EPA Office of Water following 2023 water sector stakeholder meeting (January 12, 2023)
  • Comment Letter to the U.S. EPA on PFAS designation as CERCLA Hazardous Substances (November 7, 2022)
  • Recommendation Letter to the Biden Administration on the President’s FY24 Budget Request (October 14, 2022)
  • Comment Letter to U.S. Department of the Interior on Build America, Buy America Act Programmatic Waivers (September 23, 2022)
  • Joint Water Sector Letter to the White House Infrastructure Coordinator and U.S. EPA on Build America, Buy America Act requirements (September 15, 2022)
  • Comment Letter on Build America, Buy America Act waivers for additional selected U.S. EPA funding programs (July 27, 2022)
  • Comment Letter on Build America, Buy America Act waivers for State Revolving Fund projects (June 29, 2022)
  • Comment Letter on Build America, Buy America Act waivers for Water Infrastructure and Innovation Act projects and other water reuse programs (May 20, 2022)
  • Comment Letter on the proposed definition of “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) put forward by the U.S. EPA and Army Corps of Engineers (February 7, 2022)
  • Joint water sector letter to the Office of Management and Budget and U.S. EPA on Build America, Buy America mandates in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (January 3, 2022)
  • Implementation recommendations letter to the Bureau of Reclamation regarding Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (January 3, 2022)
  • Comment Letter on Federal Government departments’ and agencies’ published climate change adaptation and resiliency plans (November 5, 2021)
  • Comment Letter on U.S. EPA’s draft guidance memorandum on the “Functional Equivalent” discharge test for groundwater discharges (January 12, 2021)

Congressional Advocacy: 119th Congress

Appropriations

Appropriations are annual decisions made by Congress about how the federal government spends some of its money.

  • Letter to House Appropriations Subcommittees urging support for the Alternative Water Source Grants program (February 2025)
  • Joint letter to House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees urging support for State Revolving Fund programs (February 2025)

Water Reuse Infrastructure Investment Legislation

  • SUEZ letter on infrastructure package and Alternative Water Source Grants (August 2021)
  • Water sector letter on Buy American expansion (August 2021)
  • Joint letter on smart water technology (May 2021)
  • WateReuse letter in support of H.R. 1915, the Water Quality Protection and Job Creation Act of 2021 (April 2021)
  • Support letter urging infrastructure investment package that includes water recycling (April 2021)
  • Joint water sector letter in support of federal investment in water infrastructure (March 2021)
  • Support letter for Senate’s Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act of 2021 (March 2021)
  • Support letter to Rep. Grace Napolitano (D-CA) for the Water Recycling Investment and Improvement Act (HR 1015) (March 2021)
  • Support letter for House Water Recycling Investment and Improvement Act of 2021 (March 2021)
  • Agricultural-Water Sectors Joint Letter urging stimulus funding for water reuse and other water infrastructure (January 2021)

National Water Reuse Action Plan

  • Joint Water Sector letter on the importance of the National Water Reuse Action Plan (December 3, 2020)
  • Recommendations to President-Elect Biden’s transition team, urging the incoming Administration to prioritize water recycling (November 9, 2020)
  • WateReuse Comments on the draft National Water Reuse Action Plan (December 16, 2019)
  • Joint Water Sector Comments on the draft National Water Reuse Action Plan (December 16, 2019)
  • Joint Water Sector Comments on the development of the EPA/Federal Agency National Water Reuse Action Plan (July 1, 2019)

COVID-19/Coronavirus Pandemic

Advocacy

  • Joint water sector letter to House and Senate leadership urging COVID-19 relief to utilities and ratepayers (November 16, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter to House and Senate leadership urging funding to utilities to cover costs associated with coronavirus pandemic, as well as increased funding for water infrastructure programs (March 23, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter to House and Senate leadership urging capital assistance and pandemic risk insurance for associations and non-profits (March 23, 2020)
  • Support letter to House and Senate leadership urging that any Coronavirus stimulus package include investment in Title XVI investment (March 19, 2020)

Resources

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Water Transmission and COVID-19
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Coronavirus and Drinking Water and Wastewater
  • H.R. 748, Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act

Resources

  • Committee Roster – The chairs and ranking members of the congressional committees and subcommittee most relevant to water policy.
  • Funding Policy Priorities – Joint water sector legislative policy priorities, which will be communicated to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.
  • Title XVI GAO Report – A Government Accountability Office analysis found that the Bureau of Reclamation awarded about $715 million in water reuse grants for 46 construction projects and 71 studies under the Title XVI grant program from 1992-2017. (January 15, 2019)
  • National Advocacy Opportunities Webcast – Top Washington water sector lobbyists discuss the status of key legislation and explain the opportunities to advance a water reuse policy agenda. (January 16, 2019)
118th Congress

Congressional Advocacy: 118th Congress

Budget

The federal budget contains estimates of income and spending and recommends funding levels. Congress then must pass appropriations bills based on the president’s recommendations and Congressional priorities.

Appropriations

Appropriations are annual decisions made by Congress about how the federal government spends some of its money.

  • Joint letter to House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees urging support for Title XVI program (September 2024)
  • Joint letter to House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees (May 2024)

Hearings

  • WateReuse testimony to Senate ENR Committee (July 2021) 
  • WateReuse testimony to House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (April 2021)
  • WateReuse Testimony for U.S. House Hearing, “Building Back Better: The Urgent Need for Investment in America’s Wastewater Infrastructure” (February 2021)

Nominations

  • WateReuse support letter for confirmation of Camille Touton as Reclamation Commissioner (June 2021) 
  • WateReuse letter supporting confirmation of Radhika Fox as EPA Assistant Administrator (April 2021)
117th Congress

Budget

  • WateReuse Letter Urging Congressional Leadership to Protect Water Reuse Funding in Build Back Better (January 31, 2022).
  • WateReuse letter to U.S. House of Representatives regarding budget reconciliation (August 2021) 
  • WateReuse letter to U.S. Senate regarding budget reconciliation (August 2021) 

Appropriations

  • FY 2023 Alternative Water Source Grant Pilot Project one-pager (March 2022)
  • FY 2022 appropriations requests to the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee (June 2021)
  • FY 2022 appropriations requests to the Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee.
  • FY 2022 appropriations testimony to the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee (May 2021)
  • WateReuse Letter from WRCA regarding FY 2022 appropriations (April 2021)
116th Congress

Water Infrastructure Financing

  • Conference recommendations to Congress ahead of negotiations on a final water infrastructure package, formerly known as the Water Resources Development Act. (August 7, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter to the House Rules Committee in support of amendment to FY 2021 legislation that clarifies that pending WIFIA Program applicants should not be required to restart the application process. (July 22, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter opposing the House Appropriations Committee’s approach to funding the WIFIA program in the FY 2021 budget (July 9, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter in support of removing the volume cap on private activity bonds (PABs) contained in H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act. (June 24, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter to House leadership urging federal investments in smart water technologies as part of future economic stimulus legislation. (June 18, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter urging Congress to address the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic on water systems in the next relief package. (May 14, 2020)
  • Comment letter to Senate Environment and Public Works Committee supporting policy changes and investments in water recycling included in draft water infrastructure bills. (April 27, 2020)
  • Written Testimony on FY 2021 Funding to Senate Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Activities (March 19, 2021)
  • Comment letter to Congress in support of using the Title XVI-WINN Water Reclamation and Reuse Program as vehicle for stimulating economic activity.
  • Written Testimony on FY 2021 Funding to Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee (March 11, 2021)
  • Written Testimony on FY 2021 Funding to to House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee (March 11, 2021)
  • Written Testimony to the House Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee Regarding FY 2021 Funding (March 5, 2020)
  • Joint water sector letter in support of Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA)–H2O Act (H.R. 6113) (March 5, 2020)
  • WateReuse Arizona letter to Representative Kirkpatrick urging robust funding for Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Grant Program. (February 28, 2020)
  • WateReuse California letter to Senator Feinstein and Representative Calvert urging robust funding for Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Grant Program. (February 21, 2020)
  • WateReuse statement for the record in support of tax incentives for water recycling. (February 12, 2020)
  • Support letter to Rep. Jared Huffman for the Furthering Underutilized Technologies and Unleashing Responsible Expenditures for Drought Resiliency Act (FUTURE Drought Resiliency Act). (January 30, 2020)
  • Approriations letter to Senator Joe Manchin III urging for support on the S. 1932 the Drought Resiliency and Water Supply Infrastructure Act. (November 8, 2019)
  • Joint water sector letter to the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittees of the House and Senate requesting robust funding in FY 2020 for key programs that fund water recycling projects (October 24, 2019)
  • Joint water sector letter to the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittees of the House and Senate requesting robust funding in FY 2020 for key programs that fund water recycling projects (October 24, 2019)
  • Joint water sector letter expressing support for the Drought Resiliency and Water Supply Infrastructure Act (June 18, 2019)
  • Written Testimony to the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee urging $100 million for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Program for FY 2020 (April 24, 2019)
  • Written Testimony to the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee urging $100 million for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Program for FY 2020 (April 12, 2019)
  • Appropriations letter from WateReuse Pacific Northwest to Senator Jeff Merkley urging $100 million for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Program. (April 5, 2019)
  • Appropriations letter from WateReuse Pacific Northwest to Senator Patty Murray urging $100 million for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Program. (April 5, 2019)
  • Appropriations letter from WateReuse Pacific Northwest to Rep. Derek Kilmer urging $100 million for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Program. (April 5, 2019)
  • Water sector letter to the leaders of the House and Senate Energy and Water Subcommittees urging $100 million for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Title XVI-WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Program. (April 2, 2019)
  • Water sector letter delivered to the leaders of the House and Senate Interior-Environment Subcommittees urging robust funding for EPA water programs, such as the Clean and Drinking Water SRF programs and the WIFIA program
  • Appropriations letter to the House urging robust funding of key water reuse infrastructure financing programs in FY20. (March 15, 2019)
  • Appropriations letter to the Senate urging robust funding of key water reuse infrastructure financing programs in FY20. (March 15, 2019)
  • Water Sector Letter urging Congress to include water infrastructure in any infrastructure package. (January 10, 2019)

America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018

  • Comment Letter to the Army Corps of Engineers on development of implementation guidance for Section 1164 of America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. (February 12, 2018)

Water Research

To tackle the nation’s greatest challenges with water quality and supply, Congress established the National Priorities Water Research Grant Program.

  • Joint water sector letter to congressional appropriators urging $20 million to support the EPA’s National Priorities Water Research program and $10 million for the Innovative Water Technologies grant program for FY 2020. (March 14, 2019)

Other (Multi-issue letters, Analyses, Statements, etc.)

  • WateReuse Association comments on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Nationwide Permit on Water Reuse (November 16, 2020)
  • Comment letter to U.S. EPA regarding Preliminary Regulatory Determinations for PFOS and PFOA. (June 10, 2020)
  • Joint water sector comments regarding regulation of PFOS, PFOA and other PFAS in drinking water. (June 3, 2020)
  • Written testimony to the Water Subcommittee of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for the record in support of water recycling and innovation.
  • WateReuse Policy Principles on Federal Legislative and Regulatory Action Related to Per- and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) (October 2019)
  • Joint Water Sector Letter in support of S. 2636, the Clean Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Act of 2019 (October 17, 2019)
  • Comment Letter to EPA proposing specific actions the agency can take to advance the safe reuse of produced water (July 1, 2019)
  • Comment Letter to EPA supporting Interpretive Statement on Application of the Clean Water Act National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program to Releases of Pollutants from a Point Source to Groundwater (June 7, 2019)
  • Joint Water Sector Letter supporting S.1251, the Safe Drinking Water Assistance Act,
  • Comment Letter to EPA and ACoE urging revisions to exemptions for water recycling structures in the proposed rule revising the definition of “Waters of the United States.” (April 15, 2019)
  • Joint water sector letter urging legislation to modernize National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit terms under the Clean Water Act.

Water Week 2019 Congressional Briefing

On Wednesday, April 3, the WateReuse Association hosted a congressional briefing on the value of federal investment in water reuse, featuring panelists Gilbert Trejo of El Paso Water, Martha Tremblay of the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, and Alan Weland of Suez. WateReuse President Paul Jones, General Manager of the Eastern Municipal Water District, moderated the briefing before a packed audience of congressional staffers and others at the US Capitol. 

https://t.co/g2nDRUQGEQ

— WateReuse (@WateReuseAssoci) April 3, 2019
115th Congress

Water Infrastructure Financing

Title XVI Water Recycling Program

Title XVI is the only federal program that provides funding specifically for water reuse projects in 17 western states and Hawaii.

  • Stakeholder Letter urging support for the reauthorization of the competitive grant program authorized in the 2016 Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act. (October 29, 2018)
  • Title XVI Water Recycling Program WRA comments to the Bureau of Reclamation on the updated Title XVI evaluation criteria. (April 12, 2018)
  • Appropriations letter for FY19 Title XVI funding signed by 42 stakeholders requesting $60 million for the program in FY19. (March 16, 2018)
  • Letter of support for the Water Recycling Investment and Improvement Act that would increase authorization of Title XVI to $500 million. (February 23, 2018)
  • Letter for the record for the House Natural Resources Committee’s November 30 hearing on H.R. 4419.  (December 8, 2017)

Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA)

WIFIA provides low-interest loans for water, wastewater, stormwater and water reuse projects.

  • Joint comment letter to USEPA on proposed fees and other program features for the WIFIA program, (February 17, 2017)

State Revolving Funds (SRF)

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund provides low-interest loans for wastewater facilities, stormwater management projects, and other water quality projects including all forms of water reuse. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund provides loans to improve drinking water treatment and other water infrastructure projects to protect public health including water reuse.

  • Letter of support to House leaders for the reauthorization of the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. (May 3, 2017)

Tax Reform

  •  Coalition letter of support to Congress opposing the elimination of private activity bonds and advance refunding bonds in the House and Senate versions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. (December 6, 2017)
  • Joint water sector letters to the House and Senate opposing a provision in the House tax reform bill that would repeal the ability to advance refund municipal bonds, and urging against the inclusion of a similar provision in the Senate’s tax reform bill. (November 8, 2017)
  • Letter of support to Congress for comprehensive tax reform that creates a financial incentive to invest in water reuse infrastructure. (July 17, 2017)

Other (Multi-issue letters, Analyses, Statements, etc.)

  • Joint letter with the Family Farm Alliance urging support for a reauthorization package for several western water investment programs including Title XVI, water storage, desalination, and WIFIA (November 13, 2018)
  • Comment Letter from water sector groups urging EPA to conduct rulemaking on Clean Water Act Coverage of “Discharges of Pollutants” via a Direct Hydrologic Connection to Surface Water. (May 21, 2018)
  • Joint water sector appropriations letter urging strong support for federal water programs in FY19. (March 20, 2018)
  • Appropriations letter to Congress urging for robust funding of key water reuse infrastructure financing programs in FY19. (March 15, 2018)
  • Letters of support for both the Senate and House versions of the SRF WIN Act (S. 2364, H.R. 4902). (February 1, 2018)
  • Appropriations letter from the water sector groups to Congress outlining FY18 funding priorities for water infrastructure programs (November 20, 2017)
  • Budget letter to the Office of Management and Budget requesting robust funding for critical federal programs that support water reuse projects for FY 2019. (November 14, 2017)
  • Written statement for the record to the House Subcommittee on Water Resources and the Environment for a September 26, 2017 hearing. The statement makes policy recommendations and outlines the critical role that water recycling plays in communities across the nation.

Water Research

To tackle the nation’s greatest challenges with water quality and supply, Congress established the National Priorities Water Research Grant Program.

  • Joint Water Sector Letter urging Congress to pass legislation that funds the National Priorities Water Research grant program at $4.1 million (November 13, 2018)
  • Joint Water Sector Letter urging Congress to increase funding for the National Priorities Water Research grant program to $20 million for Fiscal Year 2019. (February 23, 2018)

WaterSense Program

WaterSense is a program that identifies, labels and promotes products, buildings, landscapes, facilities, processes and services that use water efficiently.

  • Letters of support for the inclusion of language that considers the impacts of water quality in WaterSense bills (August 18, 2017):
    • S. 1460, Energy and Natural Resources Act of 2017
    • S. 1137, Clean Safe Reliable Water Infrastructure Act
    • S. 1700, Water Efficiency Improvement Act of 2017

Water Resources Development Act

  • Letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers offering support for partnership on water reuse provisions in America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018.
  • Senate Environment and Public Works Committee proposed WRDA legislative package and section-by-section of manager’s amendment (May 18, 2018)
  • Coalition letter of support for proposed WRDA language to the Senate committee leadership (May 17, 2018).
  • Letter to House committee leadership from Reps. Dan Lipinski (D-IL) and John Duncan (R-TN) championing proposed WRDA language. (May 11, 2018)
  • Coalition letters of support for proposed WRDA language to the House and Senate. (April 6, 2018)
  • Proposal document for an integrated water resources management provision in the 2018 WRDA bill. (March 2018)

Infrastructure Initiative

  • WateReuse analysis of the President’s infrastructure proposal. (February 19, 2018)

Water Week 2018

  • WateReuse fact sheet on the value of water recycling.

WaterWeek Congresional Briefing https://t.co/NrsPE5J21t

— WateReuse (@WateReuseAssoci) April 19, 2018

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Alabama

Alabama has a history of water reuse citing back to 1975 with reclaimed water being reused primarily for irrigation. The state’s rules allow for Class A and Class B water, with different reuse applications applying to each. These regulations also explain how to apply for permits for reuse. Alabama’s Department of Environmental Management oversees the state’s regulation of water reuse.

Regulations

  • Reclaimed Water Reuse Program, Chapter 335-6-20: These regulations establish the procedures and requirements for pollution source permits for reclaimed water reuse facilities. Reclaimed water is defined as wastewater that has received treatment meeting the specific criteria and can be reused for beneficial irrigation of areas such as golf courses, residential and commercial landscaping, parks, athletic fields, roadway medians and landscape impoundments.
California

The State Water Resources Control Board (Board) regulates water quality in California.  The Board also develops statewide regulations for recycled water – potable and non-potable, including onsite reuse.  The Board also provides funding through loans and grant programs for recycled water. The Regional Water Quality Control Board issues site specific water quality permits. The California Department of Water Resources manages water supply, including overseeing water conservation, groundwater and surface waters.

Regulations and Policies

  • Title 22 (State Water Board): These are the primary regulations for recycled water in California, including:
    • Non-potable recycled water regulations (to be updated in 2023)
    • Groundwater Recharge Regulations
    • Reservoir Water Augmentation Regulations
    • Raw Water Augmentation Regulations and Treated Drinking Water Regulations (voted to adopt in December 2023 – draft regulations released).
    • Onsite Reuse Regulations (planned 2023)
  • Recycled Water Policy (State Water Board updates every five years): The policy includes requirements for potable reuse permits and policies that guide all Title 22 recycled water uses.
  • Toxicity Provisions (CA State Water Board): Toxicity provisions apply to recycled water discharge.
  • Plumbing Code (Department of Water Resources): This code regulates indoor use of non-potable recycled water
  • Building Standards Code (Building Standards Commission): This code regulates indoor use of non-potable recycled water.
  • Cross Connection Handbook (State Water Board): Ensures no cross connection between recycled water supply and potable supply
  • Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (Department of Water Resources): Regulates the use of recycled water in outdoor irrigation.
  • NEW Water Use Efficiency Regulations (State Water Board): Planned regulations for 2023.
  • Regional Water Quality Control Board (9 regions): Issue WRDs and NPDES permits for recycled water.
Arizona

Arizona has a long history of water reuse beginning in about 1926.  As much as two-thirds of all treated wastewater generated in Arizona is reused for a variety purposes, including irrigation, environmental restoration, energy generation, and agriculture. Legislative authority for water reuse was granted to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) in 1999 and reclaimed water rules focus on protecting water quality and human health. ADEQ is currently revising Arizona’s rules governing the use of recycled water. The first installment of new rules, effective January 1, 2018, allow permitting for direct potable reuse. In the next installment of rulemaking, ADEQ intends to adopt more detailed DPR criteria. Arizona has no indirect potable reuse (IPR) regulations, but IPR can be done under separate ADEQ groundwater protection permitting regulations. Other than graywater use, there are no specific rules allowing onsite or decentralized water reuse in Arizona.

Regulations

  • Recycled Water Rulemaking: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is working on various recycled water regulations by consulting numerous stakeholders in the field. ADEQ also completed a triennial surface water quality review in 2019 in compliance with the Clean Water Act.
    • Direct Potable Reuse (DPR) Comprehensive Rulemaking: AZDEQ kicked off the rulemaking by convening stakeholders in July 2022.
  • AAC Title 18, Chapter 9: Article 7 provides rules for the use of recycled water in Arizona.
  • AAC Title 18, Chapter 11: Article 3 provides water quality standards for recycled in Arizona
  • Proposed Rule: This proposed rule under A.A.C Title 18 from November 2024 on Advanced Water Purification (AWP) would allow for the installation of water reuse technologies for the treatment of recycled water to drinking water standards. This rule is not finalized and will be updated accordingly going forward.
Colorado

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has a reclaimed water program that is designed to promote water reuse in the state. The state’s Reclaimed Water Control Regulation was introduced in 2000. The regulation covers the use of reclaimed water for landscape and agricultural irrigation, fire protection, industrial, commercial, and urinal and toilet flushing. These uses correlate to three categories of water quality standards, additional filtration and disinfection treatment for specific uses, and treatment from localized treatment systems (“decentralized”). The state also runs grant programs, such as the Water Plan Grant fund established in 2018, to incentivize new water reuse projects.

Regulations and Policies

  • Regulation No. 11 – Direct Potable Reuse Regulation: On November 14, 2022, the Colorado Water Quality Control Commission provided final approval of a new Direct Potable Reuse (DPR) rule, incorporated into Regulation 11: Colorado’s Primary Drinking Water Regulation.
    • Colorado’s Regulation for Direct Potable Reuse FAQ: Developed by WateReuse Colorado.
  • Regulation No. 84 – Reclaimed Water Control Regulation: Regulation 84 includes rules for the reuse of water for irrigation, fire protection, industrial, commercial, and urinal and toilet flushing.
  • Water quality reclaimed water (reuse) permits: CDPHE’s program page includes permit applications, policies and guidelines, and external resources.
Connecticut

Policy and Regulations

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, 2014 State of Connecticut Water Reuse Bill | Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

  • Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection established guidelines and requirements for water reuse in a 600+ page document that synthesizes all water reuse developments that have occurred in the state. Both potable and non potable reuse applications are in the document.

General Information

  • Water Supply Plans (Connecticut General Statutes §25-32d)

 

 

Delaware

Recycled water has been used for irrigation in Delaware for decades. The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control administers state regulations and permitting for the distribution of treated wastewater for irrigation.

Regulation

  • Spray Irrigation Systems: Spray irrigation of reclaimed water is permitted through the Large Systems Branch and can be used for agricultural fields, golf course, forests, parks, roadway medians, and cemeteries.

 

Florida

Water reuse was established as a state objective in 1989 and the state has since created a supportive regulatory environment. Florida has regulations that specify requirements of how reclaimed water is to be treated depending on the use or application of the water. Approximately 820 million gallons per day of reclaimed water are used for beneficial purposes each year, including golf course irrigation, residential irrigation, agricultural irrigation, groundwater recharge and indirect potable reuse, industrial uses, fire protection, and wetlands.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is moving forward with Phase II of rulemaking to ensure proper regulation for implementation of potable reuse programs in the state of Florida. The rules amended in Chapter 62-610 F.A.C. Phase II Reuse of Reclaimed Water and Land Application will address updates necessary to be consistent with recommendations of the Potable Reuse Commission’s 2020 report “Advancing Potable Reuse in Florida: Framework for the Implementation of Potable Reuse in Florida” as required by Florida’s Clean Waterways Act of 2020.

Regulations and Policies

  • Reuse of Reclaimed Water and Land Application, Chapter 62-610, F.A.C.: These rules govern reuse and land application in Florida. Rule 62-610.810, F.A.C., distinguishes reuse projects from effluent disposal.
  • Domestic Wastewater Facilities, Chapter 62-600, F.A.C.: Treatment and disinfection requirements for reuse of reclaimed water are established in Rules 62-600.530 and 62-600.440, F.A.C. Domestic wastewater must meet, at a minimum, a treatment standard of secondary treatment, basic disinfection and pH control in order to be reused as reclaimed water.
  • Wastewater Facility and Activities Permitting, Chapter 62-620, F.A.C.
  • Water Implementation Rule, Chapter 62-40, F.A.C.:  This chapter presents the overall state water policy, provides guidance for issuing consumptive use permits, establishes requirements for domestic wastewater treatment facilities, and creates a mandatory reuse program.
  • Florida Plumbing Code: The code incorporates building construction-related regulations for public and private buildings in the State of Florida.
  • Potable Reuse Rulemaking Information: The potable reuse rulemaking effort is a joint effort between wastewater and drinking water.
  • Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Water Reuse Program: This page has general information and links pertaining to Florida’s water reuse activities, rules, statutory authorities, and resources.
  • Proposed Rule: This proposed rule, Chapter 62-565: “Permitting, Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Advanced Treatment Water Facilities and Associated Systems” will address potable reuse. This will cover CECs and will ensure that potable reuse water is compliant with all state drinking water quality standards.This rule is not finalized and will be updated accordingly going forward.
Georgia

The Watershed Protection Branch of Georgia’s Department of National Resources Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has a set of guidelines for Water Reclamation and Urban Water Reuse. The guidelines were revised in 2012 and encompass considerations, system and monitoring requirements, and design standards for urban water reuse in the state. The uses covered are industrial and non-potable reuse. In 2011, the state released Guidelines for Reclaimed Water Systems in Buildings for reuse water to be piped within buildings for flushing toilets and urinals and other approved uses. In In 2021, EPD released the state’s first indirect potable reuse guidelines. The guidelines are intended to help applicants navigate through the regulatory complexity of a potential indirect potable reuse project, help the appropriate programs within EPD coordinate with each other, and streamline the regulatory process.

Regulations and Policies

  • Guidelines for Water Reclamation and Urban Water Reuse (Department of National Resources Environmental Protection Division): Georgia provides guidelines detailing considerations and systems requirements for urban water reuse in the state. Design standards and monitoring requirements are also given.
  • Guidelines for Reclaimed Water Systems for Buildings: The Georgia Plumbing Code was amended January 1, 2011 to allow reclaimed water to be used for toilet and urinal flushing and other approved uses.
  • Indirect Potable Reuse Guidelines (Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division): The guidelines provide a framework to support applicants for new or modified drinking water, surface water withdrawal, and wastewater discharge permits.
  • Gray Water Recycling System Guidelines (State of Georgia): This document offers guidelines for the reuse of graywater in the state. It also gives information on system design, operation, and potential reuse systems.

Hawaii

Water in the State of Hawaii is recycled for a range of non-potable applications. In 2016, the Hawaii Department of Health revised its guidelines for water reuse, which include technical requirements and application processes for various qualities of recycled water, requirements to construct or modify a wastewater reclamation facility, and best practices for reuse of graywater.

Regulations and Policies

Reuse Guidelines- Volume 1: Recycled Water Facilities: Volume 1 addresses technical requirements that must be met for the various qualities of recycled water as well as requirements to construct or modify a wastewater reclamation facility (WWRF).

Reuse Guidelines- Volume 2: Recycled Water Projects: Volume 2 covers the application process to use recycled water for purposes such as irrigation, dust control, cleaning, and fire-fighting and establishes best management practices that apply to the end user.

Guidelines for the Reuse of Graywater: These guidelines detail the acceptable uses of graywater, including discharge from showers, bathtubs, hand-washing lavatories, and washing machines, as well as considerations for design and system maintenance.

Hawaii Department of Health, Recycled Water Program: The Department of Health administers the recycled water program.

Idaho

Idaho has been supporting reuse since 1988, and state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) data indicate that over 4 billion gallons of water are reused every year. Idaho has both reuse regulations and guidelines that include treatment and beneficial reuse of municipal and industrial wastewater. Water reuse by different types of land application facilities is allowed by state regulations. In 1988, Idaho’s Wastewater Land Application permitting rules were promulgated and guidance was developed. Idaho has a public advisory working group that meets periodically to advise guidance development and review existing and future reuse guidance. In 2011 reuse regulations were updated, and the name of the rules changed to Recycled Water Rules (IDAPA 58.01.17).

Regulations and Policies

  • Recycled Water Rules (Idaho Administrative Code 58.01.17): This rule applies to municipal dischargers, industrial dischargers, facilitates, organizations, and individuals seeking a land application or recycled water permit. The rule provides procedures and requirements for obtaining a “reuse permit.”
  • Reuse Permitting  (Idaho Department of Environmental Quality): Two types of reuse permits are issued—industrial and municipal. Industrial permits regulate reuse from operations such as food processing facilities. Municipal permits regulate reuse containing treated effluent.
Indiana

Policy and Regulations

Guidelines

  • Report on Indiana Water Use Efficiency and Conservation
Iowa

In 2018, Iowa established regulations to govern the reuse of treated effluent for golf course irrigation. Other types of landscape and agricultural irrigation seem to be permitted on a project-by-project basis.

Regulation

567 Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 62: Effluent and Pretreatment Standards: Iowa Administrative Code details effluent reuse for golf course irrigation.

Kansas

Policy and Regulations

Kansas Water Office, Non-Traditional Sources and Uses of Water-Reuse | Kansas Water Office

  • This document details potable and non potable reuse from non traditional variable sources. It outlines potential uses and considerations.

 

 

Louisiana

The Louisiana Reclaimed Water Law (Title 30, Chapter 17, Section 2391 et seq.) declares that the use of potable water for non-potable uses, including but not limited to cemeteries, golf courses, parks, highway landscaped areas, and industrial uses, is a waste of “our most precious natural resource.” The law requires the use of reclaimed waters if a source exists. The law may encourage facilities to reuse or reclaim wastewater thereby eliminating discharges to waters of the state.

Policy

  • Louisiana Reclaimed Water Law: This legislation encourages the use of recycled water in Louisiana.

 

Maryland

Maryland’s Ground Water Quality Standards include rules applicable to water recycling. Part A covers required approval of discharges. Part B classifies three types of groundwater aquifers based on transmissivity, permeability and total dissolved solids quality. The intent is to distinguish high quality aquifers and ensure their protection. Part C defines three categories of effluent water quality relative to the three types of groundwater aquifers. Part D provides guidelines for discharges to ground waters, and incorporates the Maryland Department of Environment’s “Guidelines for Land Application/Reuse of Treated Municipal Wastewaters” MDE-WMA-001-04/10, by reference.

Regulations and Policies

  • Code of Maryland Regulations, COMAR 26.08.02.09: Part D of the Ground Water Quality Standards provides “Guidelines for Land Application/Reuse of Treated Municipal Wastewaters.”
  • Guidelines for Land Application/Reuse of Treated Municipal Wastewaters (Class 1-3): Guidelines cover Class 1-3 reclaimed water.
  • Guidelines for Use of Class IV reclaimed water (High Potential for Human Content): Guidelines (Title 26) for highly treated Class IV reclaimed water generated from centralized wastewater treatment plants.
  • Department of the Environment, Maryland Water Reuse Laws, Regulation, and Guidelines: The Maryland Department of the Environment recognizes four levels of treated water quality that pertain to different acceptable reuses. This page has links to relevant policies relating to potable and non-potable reuse.
Massachusetts

Massachusetts Department of the Environment provides detailed standards for reuse in reclaimed water projects. Reclaimed water is used in landscaping, irrigation, and toilet flushing. In 2009, the state DEP established a Reclaimed Water Permit program that enabled large scale non-potable reuse. The state has since approved nearly a dozen large scale projects such as Gillette Stadium and the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets.

Regulations and Policies

  • Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, Massachusetts Reclaimed Water Information: Massachusetts Department of the Environment provides detailed standards for reuse in reclaimed water projects. Reclaimed water is used in landscaping, irrigation, and toilet flushing.
  • 314 CMR 20: Reclaimed Water Permit Program and Standards: These regulations provide permitting guidance and standards for reclaimed water systems and the use/distribution of reclaimed water.
  • 314 CMR 5.00: Ground Water Discharge Permit Program: These are regulations related to the discharge of groundwater and the reuse of wastewater.
Minnesota

Water reuse is happening across Minnesota, but there is no comprehensive statewide guidance or policy on water reuse. An interagency workgroup formed in 2015 in response to interest in water reuse, a legislative directive and funding support. State agencies, Metropolitan Council, the University of Minnesota and stakeholders in the water reuse community worked together to develop a report that serves as a foundation for advancing safe and sustainable reuse in Minnesota. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency provides treatment design and storage requirements for permitting of water reuse projects.

Policies and Resources

  • Minnesota Department of Health, Water Reuse: The Department of Health details water reuse in Minnesota including recommendations of a workgroup formed to advance water reuse in the state.
  • Advancing Safe and Sustainable Water Reuse in Minnesota -2018 Report of the Interagency Workgroup of Water Reuse: The report discusses the current status of reuse policies in Minnesota for wastewater, stormwater and rainwater, and graywater reuse.
  • Minnesota Pollution Control Agency – Municipal Wastewater Reuse Fact Sheet: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency details various levels of municipal wastewater reuse and the relevant quality of treatment needed. This document pertains to industrial reuse, irrigation, and toilet/urinal flushing.
  • Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 115: Land use or spray irrigation of reclaimed water is permitted under Chapter 115 of the Minnesota Water Pollution Control; Sanitary Districts.
Missouri

Policy and Regulations

General Information

  • Missouri Department of Natural Resources, No-Discharge Wastewater Treatment
  • Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Wastewater Irrigation Frequently Asked Questions 
Montana

Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) regulates the reuse of graywater and wastewater for non-potable functions such as irrigation and toilet flushing. An MDEQ circular from 2018 sets forth required treatment and water quality requirements for the various classes of reclaimed wastewater, describes the class of reclaimed wastewater required for each allowable use. The circular also outlines requirements to ensure an adequate demonstration of public health and environmental protection.

Policies

  • Circular DEQ-2, Design Standards for Public Sewage Systems: Chapter 121 provides requirements for reclaimed water.
  • Rule 17.36.319, Gray Water Reuse: Chapter 36 details permitting for gray water systems and onsite subsurface wastewater treatment.
New Hampshire

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) developed a guidance document to describe how certain uses of reclaimed water from wastewater treatment plants are regulated in New Hampshire. The document provides guidance for the use of reclaimed water to recharge aquifers, irrigate crops and/or turf at golf courses, and snowmaking.

Policy

  • NHDES, Land Treatment and Disposal of Reclaimed Wastewater: Guidance for Groundwater Discharge Permitting: This document provides guidance for obtaining permits.
New Jersey

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Division of Water Quality promotes beneficial water reuse from domestic and industrial wastewater dischargers via the NJDPES permitting program. Reclaimed water can be used for non-potable applications in place of potable water or as a supplement to potable water. Potential applications include irrigation of crops, parks, and golf courses; dust control; fire fighting; and toilet flushing. The Bureau of Surface Water and Pretreatment Permitting program has issued over 125 water reuse permits.

Policies

  • NJDEP Technical Manual: Reclaimed Water for Beneficial Use: This manual includes design, operation, and maintenance criteria for wastewater systems discharging reclaimed water for beneficial reuse and provides criteria for users of reclaimed water.
  • NJDEP Reclaimed Water Program: NJDEP provides guidance for project funding and implementation, as well as statewide reuse data.
New Mexico

Policy and Regulations

New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, Oil and Gas Extraction Wastewater Management |  New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department 

  • New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department has developed regulations relevant to the reuse of water disposed from Oil and Natural Gas projects. Groundwater recharge is encompassed by these regulations.

New Mexico Environment Department, Water Resources & Management  | New Mexico Environment Department 

  • New Mexico Environment Department has several regulations relevant to potable and non potable reuse in the state.

Water Project Finance Section; Implementation of state water plan (New Mexico Statutes §72-4A-9) | New Mexico Statutes

  • New Mexico Statutes’ Water Project Finance Section has developed the Project Fund Act. This law provides low cost loans for projects related to water conservation and recycling, flood prevention, endangered species, water storage and delivery, and watershed restoration and management. This is relevant to aquifer recharge water reuse.

Water Conservation Plans; municipalities, counties and water suppliers. (New Mexico Statutes §72-14-3.2) | New Mexico Statutes

  • New Mexico Statutes defines that “Covered entities” (i.e. water providers of at least five hundred acre-feet annually to municipal users) must submit a water conservation plan to the state engineer in order to be eligible for financial assistance from the Water Trust Board or the New Mexico Finance Authority. This document pertains to Ecological Restoration.

State Water Plan Authorization (New Mexico Statutes §72-14-3.1) | New Mexico Statutes  

  • New Mexico Statutes defines that the interstate stream commission, the office of the state engineer, and water trust board are tasked with creating and implementing a comprehensive state water plan, including elements such as: water conservation, water reuse, land use considerations, cooperation with local governments, drought management, and several other topics. This pertains to non potable water reuse.

General Information

2018 New Mexico State Water Plan

New York

In the State of New York, the Department of Environmental Conservation regulates water reuse programs operated by wastewater treatment plants through State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits on a case-by-case basis. The New York State Department of State regulates graywater reuse within buildings through the state’s plumbing code, enforced by local building inspectors. In the City of New York, the Department of Environmental Protection operates a water conservation and reuse grants program to encourage commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential property owners to implement onsite water reuse systems.

Policies and Programs

  • Department of Environmental Conservation, Water Reuse: The Department of Environmental Conservation provides guidance on implementing water reuse projects.
  • New York City Water Conservation and Reuse Grants:  This program provides commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential property owners with incentives to install onsite water reuse systems,
Ohio

Ohio Administrative code, effective in 2015, provides guidelines for graywater recycling systems and sets their scope. The state does not currently regulate water recycling.

Regulation

  • 3701-29-17 Gray water recycling systems and alternative toilets: Ohio Administrative code provides a guideline for graywater recycling systems in Ohio and sets their scope.
Oklahoma

In 2012, Oklahoma’s Department of Environmental Quality promulgated water reuse regulations to govern groundwater recharge and other applications of water recycling. Current water reuse regulations include indirect potable reuse for surface water augmentation, operation and maintenance of water reuse systems, and treatment and construction standards.

Regulations and Policy

  • Water Reuse Implementation: DEQ guide to water reuse implementation following permitting and regulation requirements.
  • OAC 252:656-27 Wastewater Reuse: These statutes provide construction standards for water reuse facilitates.
  • OAC 252:627 Operation and Maintenance of Water Reuse Systems: Provides operation and maintenance requirements for four categories of reclaimed water.
Pennsylvania

Water reuse has been and continues to be an important component of Pennsylvania’s water management toolbox. Industries have been reusing water within their facilities for decades to reduce operating costs. Many municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants discharge treated water to streams and lakes, or land apply reclaimed water for additional treatment prior to recharging a groundwater aquifer. In many of these cases, the reclaimed water becomes a portion of the source water for a potable drinking water supply. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) developed a guidance manual in 2012 for implementing water reuse in an environmentally protective manner in accordance with DEP regulations.

Regulations and Policies

  • DEQ, Reuse of Treated Wastewater Guidance Manual: This manual includes planning, design, operation and maintenance guidelines for water reuse systems.
  • The Clean Streams Law (35 P.S. §§691.1-691.1001): Administration of sewage facilities permitting program.
  • Title 25 Pa. Code, Chapter 91: This chapter includes general provisions for water reuse.
Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has developed technical guidelines for water reuse projects. The document includes technical standards for water reuse for irrigation and cooling purposes.

Policies and Guidance

  • Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Application Guidance for Wastewater Reuse Projects: This document details assisting application information for applying to reuse water in a variety of non potable ways. This applies to all water suppliers.
South Carolina

South Carolina’s Plumbing Code, Chapter 13 Non-Potable Water Systems specifies a set of rules guiding the use of local water recycling systems. The code details a set of requirements and parameters for non-potable reuse.

Regulation

2015 South Carolina Plumbing Code- Chapter 13 Nonpotable Water Systems: South Carolina Plumbing Code offers a set of rules guiding the use of local non-potable water recycling systems.

 

Tennessee

Policy and Regulations

General Information

  • Tennessee’s Roadmap to Securing the Future of Our Water Resources
Texas

Texas has the third highest reclaimed water flows in the country behind California and Florida. Water reuse goals are published under the State Water Plan, which is updated every five years to provide a new 50 year projection. Texas estimates that water reuse will account for 15 percent of the water supply in the coming decades. The first guidelines for water reuse were passed in 1997 and updated in 2009. There are two categories of non-potable reclaimed water (Type I and Type II) based on whether the water is appropriate for public contact or not. The Texas Administrative Code also includes regulations for the use of graywater and some alternative sources in onsite or decentralized reuse systems. There are no specific water quality standards for potable reuse and therefore these projects are approved on a case by case basis.

Policies and Regulations

  • Texas Water Development Board, Water Reuse: The Texas Water Development Board has information on recent research projects and resource related to both potable and non-potable reuse.
  • Water Use Survey Requirement (Texas Water Code § 16.012): The Texas Water Development Board annually collects information about the use of water, including reuse.
  • 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 210- Use of Reclaimed Water: This regulation outlines general provisions for reclaimed water and provides rules for water quality and use.
  • 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 321, Subchapter P: This Chapter of Texas Administrative Code provides authorization procedures, general design criteria, and operational requirements for reclaimed water production facilities.
  • 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 321, Graywater and Onsite Systems: This Chapter provides rules for graywater and alternative onsite water.
  • §5.102: This Chapter of the Texas Administrative Code defines the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) and the rules that guide them. TWDB policy pertains to both potable and non-potable reuse.
  • §26.011: This Chapter of Texas Administrative Code defines the administrative provisions of the Texas Water Development Board in regards to Water Quality Control.
Utah

The State of Utah has promulgated several regulations governing water reuse. This includes regulations related to approvals and permits for water reuse projects, system design requirements, aquifer recharge, and graywater systems.

Regulations

  • Rule 3: Design Requirements for Wastewater Collection, Treatment and Disposal Systems: Includes water reuse.
  • Rule 13: Approvals and Permits for a Water Reuse Project
  • Rule 100: Utah State Project Priority System for the Utah Wastewater Project Assistance Program
  • Rule 401: Graywater Systems
Virginia

Virginia State Law, updated in 2020, details the treatment needs for various forms of reuse. State regulations have two levels of water quality pertaining to non-potable applications of recycled water. The state’s reuse program is evolving, with new policies being enacted in 2016, 2017, and 2020.

Regulations and Policies

  • Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Water Reclamation and Reuse: This page provides guidance on permitting and implementing water reclamation and reuse projects.
  • Administrative Code, Chapter 740: Definitions and General Program Requirements; Reclaimed Water Treatment, Standards, Monitoring Requirements and Reuses; Application and Technical Requirements
Vermont

Vermont’s Department of Environmental Conservation has promulgated rules related to graywater, as well as treatment standards for reclaimed water use.

Regulations

  • Environmental Protection Rules, Chapter 14, Indirect Discharge Rules: Includes reclaimed water treatment requirements.
Washington

Washington State encourages the use of reclaimed water by providing financial support and incentives, and by directing the Departments of Health and Ecology to coordinate to support the adoption of water recycling. The state developed water reclamation and reuse standards in the 1990’s and has been updating relevant regulations since then. Water reuse in Washington covers a wide range of applications, including landscape irrigation, flushing, groundwater recharge, industrial and commercial uses, and ecosystem restoration, among others.

Regulations and Policies

  • Washington State Department of Ecology, Reclaimed Water: The Department of Ecology provides information and resources to support reclaimed projects and permitting.
  • Washington State Department of Health, Water Reclamation and Reuse: The Water Reclamation and Reuse Program’s goal is ensure the safety of reclaimed water. This page has background information on the program and guidance for regulating water supplies.
  • Reclaimed Water Use (Revised Code of Washington §90.46.005): Washington State encourages the use of reclaimed water through financial support and incentives and directs the departments of health and ecology to coordinate so that reclaimed water can be developed and used to replace potable water, when appropriate, to supplement surface and groundwater supplies, and to benefit aquatic habitats. Applications include aquifer recharge and various non-potable uses.
  • Concerning risk-based water quality standards for on-site nonpotable water systems, H.B. 1184:  In 2021, Washington state legislature passed and signed H.B. 1184 into law. The legislation directs the Washington Department of Health to develop state-wide risk-based water quality standards for the use of onsite non-potable water reuse systems in commercial and multi-family buildings.
West Virginia

Policy and Regulations

 West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection’s Water and Waste Regulations | West Virginia West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection

  • West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has a summary of Water and Waste regulations in the state. None directly cover water reuse.

 

Wisconsin

Policy and Regulations

Guidelines

  • Wisconsin Water Reuse Initiative Information
Nevada

In Nevada, the Division of Environmental Protection has promulgated rules governing water recycling for both potable and non-potable uses. Nevada DEP notes that reclaimed water can be treated to meet disinfection and water quality standards for a range of applications. There are six categories of reclaimed water in the state, based upon water quality. These include indirect potable reuse, various forms of irrigation, firefighting, and cooling, among other applications.

Regulation

  • Chapter 445 – Water Controls: These regulations define the uses of reclaimed water and determine water quality standards for different allowed uses.
New Mexico

In 2007, New Mexico updated its Guidance for Aboveground Use of Reclaimed Domestic Wastewater, which includes design specifications and treatment standards for a range of uses of recycled water. The state also intends to develop regulations related to the treatment and reuse of produced water, as directed by the Produced Water Act in 2019.

Regulations and Policies

  • New Mexico Environment Department, Water Resources & Management:  New Mexico Environment Department has several regulations relevant to potable and non-potable reuse in the state.
  • New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, Oil and Gas Extraction Wastewater Management: New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department has developed regulations relevant to the reuse of water disposed from oil and natural gas projects. Groundwater recharge is covered by these regulations.
  • Water Project Finance Section; Implementation of state water plan (New Mexico Statutes §72-4A-9): New Mexico Statutes’ Water Project Finance Section has developed the Project Fund Act. This law provides low cost loans for projects related to water conservation and recycling, flood prevention, endangered species, water storage and delivery, and watershed restoration and management. This is relevant to aquifer recharge water reuse.
  • Water Conservation Plans; municipalities, counties and water suppliers. (New Mexico Statutes §72-14-3.2): New Mexico Statutes defines that “Covered entities” (i.e. water providers of at least five hundred acre-feet annually to municipal users) must submit a water conservation plan to the state engineer in order to be eligible for financial assistance from the Water Trust Board or the New Mexico Finance Authority. This document pertains to Ecological Restoration.
  • State Water Plan Authorization (New Mexico Statutes §72-14-3.1): New Mexico Statutes defines that the interstate stream commission, the office of the state engineer, and water trust board are tasked with creating and implementing a comprehensive state water plan, including elements such as: water conservation, water reuse, land use considerations, cooperation with local governments, drought management, and several other topics. This pertains to non-potable water reuse.
Wyoming

The State of Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality has promulgated a regulation that broadly outlines the permitting process for water reuse systems.

Regulation

Wyoming Administrative Rules: Regulations for permit to construct, install, or modify water reuse systems.

North Dakota

The North Dakota Water Commission defines the terms of permitting for reusing wastewater. They have an update reported that explains the current scope of reuse in the state is for irrigation and non-potable purposes.

Policy

Policy/Procedure for Transfer and Reuse of Wastewater: This document provides guidance for permitting water reuse projects.

North Carolina

North Carolina statute directs state regulatory agencies to consider water reuse as an alternative to surface water discharge. State rules governing water reuse are codified in Title 15A of the North Carolina Administration Code Subchapter 2T.0900. Reclaimed water in North Carolina may be used to a range of non-potable purposes, including irrigation, dust control, cooling and other industrial purposes, flushing, ponds and fountains, street sweeping and car washing, among others.

Regulations and Policies

  • Title 15A of the North Carolina Administration Code Subchapter 2T.0900: North Carolina’s water reuse policy and rule making statute, § 143 355.5, requires the Environmental Management Commission to “encourage and promote safe and beneficial reuse of treated wastewater as an alternative to surface water discharge.”
  • SB 163:  Allows reclaimed water to be a source water for drinking water treatment.
  • Subchapter 02U- Reclaimed Water: The rules in this Subchapter set forth the requirements and procedures for application and issuance of permits for reclaimed water systems.
  • Non-Discharge Permitting: The North Carolina Department of Environmental Policy issues Non-Discharge Permits for reclaimed water.
Oregon

Oregon began supporting beneficial reuse in 1990, when a state regulatory framework for water reuse was established. Oregon’s Water Resources Department and Department of Environmental Quality have promulgated rules to govern water reuse and reclamation methods, procedures, restrictions, treatment, and monitoring.

Regulations and Policies

  • Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Water Reuse: The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality provides reuse regulatory oversight for graywater, recycled water, and Industrial water.
  • Oregon Water Resources Department, Municipal Water Reuse: Recycled water may be used for irrigation or other beneficial uses as an exempt use without a water use permit issued by the Department, under certain conditions.
  • Recycled Water Use Rules (Oregon Administrative Rules 340-055-0005): Recycled Water Use Rules lays out methods, procedures, restrictions, treatment, and monitoring requirements for the beneficial use of reclaimed water. Reclaimed water or recycled water is defined as treated effluent from a municipal wastewater treatment system.

Concurrent Session Topics – 2022 WateReuse Symposium

Choose from presentations on six tracks providing insight and professional development, relevant to every life cycle phase of a water reuse project:

  • Phase 1: Conceptual
  • Phase 2: Planning
  • Phase 3: Design and Construction
  • Phase 4: Implementation or Operation.

Agricultural Reuse

  • Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Agricultural Reuse Water (Phase1)
  • Evidence from Consumer Willingness-to-Pay Studies: New Approaches to Water Reuse (Phase 2)

Aquifers, Groundwater, and the Environment

  • Anne Arundel County, MD Our wAAter Program: Advanced Water Treatment for MAR (Phase 1)
  • Pure Water Oceanside: Breaking New Boundaries in Groundwater Recharge (Phase 4)
  • Innovation in Florida Water Reuse: Palm Beach County’s Green Cay Project (Phase 3)

Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security

  • Cybersecurity Barriers to Innovation: Addressing Risk and Innovation for Reuse (Phase 4)
  • Digital Innovations Will Make Potable Reuse Projects More Affordable (Phase 1)
  • Integrating Real-Time Collection System Monitoring for Potable Water Reuse (Phase 4)

Federal Policy

  • Advancing National Water Reuse Policy (Phase 1)
  • From Recharge to Recovery: Federal Role and Innovation in ASR (Phase 4)
  • Produced Water Reuse Efforts in Support of the National Water Reuse Action Plan (Phase 2)

Finance and Planning

  • Advancing Water Reuse with Property Assessed Clean Energy Financing (Phase 345234)
  • Equitable Recycled Water Expansion – Through Principles, Policies and Fees (Phase 2)
  • Paying for Potable Reuse when Costs Increase Significantly (Phase 3)
  • Preliminary Design and Cost Estimate of a Direct Potable Reuse Plant in AZ (Phase 1)
  • Private Funding Can Accelerate Reuse Projects-Water Purchase /Process Agreements (Phase 1)

Industrial Reuse

  • Condensate Recovery and Reuse: A Visual Tour of UC San Diego’s Innovative Systems (Phase4)
  • Case-Studies: Improving Industrial Water Footprints with Reuse (Phase 4)
  • A Recommended Framework for Industrial Enhanced Source Control Programs (Phase 2)

Implementation & Operations

  • Achieving 100% Reuse in the LA Harbor (Phase 4)
  • Developing water reuse in underserved communities: learning from the US & abroad
  • Innovative Approaches to Engaging Next-Gen Water Professionals (Phase 4)
  • Planning & Implementation of a Comprehensive Water Reuse Project in Barbados
  • T-minus 10 & Counting: Navigating Florida’s Elimination of Surface Discharges (Phase 1)

Integrated Regional Water Management

  • The Future of Potable Reuse using KPIs (Phase 2)
  • Increasing Water Resiliency through Collaboration in North Central Texas (Phase 2)
  • Multi-agency Reuse Programs: Lessons for Successful Collaboration (Phase 2)
  • Partnering: Accelerating Regional Integrated Water Management Solutions (Phase 2)

Onsite and Distributed Systems

  • Effective Online Microbial Monitoring for Onsite Water Reuse (Phase 4)
  • Off the Roof: Measuring Microbial Characteristics of Roof Runoff (Phase 1)
  • Successful Implementation of Onsite and Distributed Water Reuse Systems (Phase 1)
  • Risk-Based Guidance for Onsite Non-Potable Reuse: Progress and Opportunities (Phase 1)
  • Tackling water conservation, quality & policy evolution with district reuse (Phase 2)
  • Water Reuse for Corporate Campus in Austin, TX (Phase 3)

Potable Reuse

  • Approach to Implement the World’s Largest Potable Reuse System – Hyperion 2035 (Phase 2)
  • Los Angeles’ Headworks DPR Project: Implementing Direct Potable Reuse (Phase 2)
  • Valley Water’s planned potable reuse project with phased IPR and DPR (Phase 4)
  • When IPR is Not Enough (Phase 4)

Public Engagement and Communications

  • Bringing Communication Pros Together to Further Water Reuse (Phase 2)
  • Bumpy Road or Smooth Ride? Strategies for Mobile DPR Demonstrations (Phase 4)
  • Five Steps to Successful Community Support (Phase 3)
  • One Water: What Does It Mean to You? (Phase 1)
  • Thinking Big While Building Small: A Museum Quality Pure Water Demo (Phase 4)
  • Raise a Glass to Potable Reuse (Phase 4)

Regulatory

  • Comparison of Potable Reuse Regulations and Impacts to Project Implementation (Phase 1)
  • Collaboration in Action: Colorado DPR Rulemaking Process (Phase 3)
  • Compilation and Synthesis of US State Water Reuse Regulations (Phase 1)
  • Regulatory Challenges for Reuse of Produced Water via Land Application (Phase 2)
  • Reuse as a Water Quality Compliance Strategy: Challenges and Opportunities (Phase2)
  • Permitting a Potable Reuse System in the Midst of Regulatory Change in Florida (Phase 2)
  • Making Reuse Work – NPDES permit case studies for EPA WRAP Action Item 2.2.10 (Phase 1)

Research

  • Bureau of Reclamation Advanced Water Treatment Research Roadmap (Phase 4)
  • Demonstrating Greater LRVs across NF and RO Membranes–Results from WRF 4958 (Phase 1)
  • EEM-PARAFAC – Monitoring organic matter through the potable water cycle (Phase 1)
  • Identifying WRRF Impacts on AWT Performance (WRF 4833 Module A) (Phase 1)
  • Innovation in oxidation for reuse: A seamless pipeline (Phase 4)
  • Quantitative Relative Chemical Assessment: Filling the Gap (Phase 2)

Stormwater Capture and Reuse

  • Advancing Stormwater Capture and Use Policy, Research, and Action Priorities (Phase 1)
  • Aggregated Rain Grid Networks: PropTech Resilience and Adaptation Through Reuse (Phase 4)
  • Targeted Onsite Reuse for Integrated Water (Phase 2)

Treatment Strategies

  • Operational Considerations and Insights for Reliable CBAT Performance (Phase 4)
  • The Rise of UV/Chlorine and the Fall of UV/peroxide in Water Reuse (Phase 1)
  • Development of Performance and Health-Based Indicators for HRSD’s SWIFT Program (Phase 4)

Water Quality

  • The Fate of CECs in Pacific Northwest Reclaimed Water Infiltration (Phase 4)
  • Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment of Water Reuse (Phase 3)
  • Role of WRFs in Managing PFAS Circulation through the Water Cycle (Phase 2)
  • PFAS in Wastewater Effluent: Meta-Analysis of Occurrence and GAC Removal (Phase 4)