-
What is Reclaimed Water?
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.
-
How can we obtain reclaimed water service for our community?
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 call (813) 964-2704 to obtain more information.
-
What are some of the benefits of reclaimed water?
- 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
-
Can I drink reclaimed water or use it to fill my pool or hot tub?
No. Reclaimed water is not suitable for human consumption, nor is it allowed for use in pools or hot tubs.
-
Can I eat fruits or vegetables irrigated with reclaimed water?
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.
-
Is reclaimed water harmful to plants or grass?
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.
-
Does reclaimed water have an odor or does it cause staining?
No. Other than a slight chlorine scent, reclaimed water has no odor and there is no staining.
-
What does reclaimed water cost?
See Rate Schedule
Monthly charges are for a flat rate and metered reclaimed water customers with connections of 1 inch or smaller.
-
Who is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the reclaimed water system?
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.
-
Reclaimed water operating guidelines
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.
Contact
To obtain more information please call (813) 272-5977, ext. 13611 and leave your name, address and daytime phone number, or email us at: WaterDept@HCFLGov.net