Reclaimed Water FAQs
Reclaimed water is a valuable water resource produced by treating and disinfecting wastewater so it can be safely reused for landscape irrigation and other approved non-drinking purposes. Through an extensive treatment process, wastewater from homes and businesses is transformed into reclaimed water that meets strict water quality standards.
Using reclaimed water helps conserve drinking water, supports healthy landscapes and makes efficient use of our water resources. While reclaimed water is safe for its approved uses, it is not intended for drinking or household use.
How Reclaimed Water Works
Pinellas County Utilities collects wastewater from homes and businesses and treats it at two facilities:
- William E. Dunn Water Reclamation Facility, Palm Harbor
- South Cross Bayou Water Reclamation Facility, St. Petersburg
The treatment process removes solids and other contaminants and disinfects the water before it is delivered to customers through a separate system of pipes identified by the color purple.
Reclaimed water contains nutrients, including nitrogen and phosphorus, that can support plant growth and may reduce the need for additional fertilizer.
Reclaimed water is a limited resource. The amount available depends on how much wastewater is collected and treated, as well as storage capacity and customer demand.
Reclaimed Water Rates
Pinellas County Utilities charges for reclaimed water service to recover the costs of producing, storing and delivering reclaimed water and maintaining the system. Rates are designed to cover the costs of providing the service, not to generate a profit.
The rate structure includes a recurring charge that provides customers with a set allowance of reclaimed water. Customers who use more than their included allowance are charged an additional rate for every 1,000 gallons used above that amount. Additional fees may apply depending on the service area.
This structure encourages water conservation by allowing customers to manage their costs through efficient irrigation. Using less reclaimed water also helps preserve the available supply for other customers.
Customers can review current rates, usage allowances and fees on the Water Rates and Fees page.
Availability and Connecting to Reclaimed Water
Reclaimed water is available in designated areas served by Pinellas County Utilities. Availability depends on existing distribution lines, available supply and the system’s capacity to serve additional customers. Not all properties are eligible for reclaimed water service.
View the service area maps to determine whether reclaimed water may be available at your property:
- Overall Service Area Map
- North County Reclaimed Water Service Area Map
- South County Reclaimed Water Service Area Map
Apply for Reclaimed Water Service
If reclaimed water is available at your property:
- Review the Reclaimed Water Connection and Inspection Requirements.
- Complete the Reclaimed Water Service Application.
- Complete any necessary irrigation system modifications and schedule a cross-connection inspection once your application has been processed.
All reclaimed water connections require an inspection to ensure reclaimed water is not connected to drinking water or other water sources. Connection requirements may differ between North and South County, and property owners are responsible for necessary modifications to their irrigation systems.
Customers can find applicable connection fees on the Reclaimed Water User Fees page.
For questions about service availability, applications or connections, contact Pinellas County Utilities at (727) 464-4000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have to pay for reclaimed water?
When the reclaimed water program began, demand was low, and service was offered at no charge to encourage customers to use reclaimed water instead of drinking water for irrigation. As more customers connected to the system and demand increased, so did the costs maintaining the treatment facilities, storage, pumps and pipelines to provide the service.
Pinellas County Utilities operates on a cost-recovery basis. Reclaimed water rates are designed to cover the costs of providing the service, not to generate a profit.
How is my reclaimed water bill calculated?
Your reclaimed water bill reflects your recurring service charge, any usage above your included allowance and other applicable fees. Some customers also pay an availability charge, depending on how the distribution system serving their property was funded.
You can view your water usage, pay bills and manage your account through the Utilities Customer Portal.
Why are there restrictions on reclaimed water use?
The amount of reclaimed water available depends on how much wastewater is collected and treated. During dry periods, demand for irrigation can exceed the available supply, particularly when many customers water at the same time.
Watering restrictions help Pinellas County Utilities balance supply and demand, maintain reliable service and provide fair access to available reclaimed water.
Regional water shortage orders do not necessarily apply to reclaimed water. However, Pinellas County Utilities may establish separate restrictions based on supply, storage, demand and operating conditions.
Watering schedules can change based on these conditions. Check your current schedule regularly at Pinellas.gov/watering-schedule-and-rules.
Why are restrictions different in North and South County?
Pinellas County Utilities operates separate North and South County reclaimed water systems with different supplies, storage and demands.
North County has more irrigated landscapes but less wastewater available for treatment. Reclaimed water is stored in one pond, where evaporation can further reduce the available supply. During dry periods, demand may exceed the amount of reclaimed water available.
South County generally has more reclaimed water available due to differences in wastewater treatment volumes and irrigation demand. These differences mean watering schedules and restrictions may vary between the two systems.
Why is my reclaimed water pressure low, and what should I do?
Reclaimed water pressure may fluctuate when irrigation demand is high, particularly during dry periods when supply is limited. Low pressure or service interruptions can also occur when reclaimed water lines are accidentally damaged during construction, pipes or valves break, or the system must be shut down for maintenance or infrastructure improvements.
If you experience low pressure or no reclaimed water:
- Check your watering schedule to confirm you are watering during permitted days and hours.
- Check for service notifications from Pinellas County Utilities about planned maintenance or unexpected outages in your area.
- Inspect your irrigation system for leaks, clogged sprinkler heads or other equipment issues. North County customers should also check their wye strainers, which should be cleaned monthly.
- Contact Pinellas County Utilities at (727) 464-4000 if the problem continues.
Stay informed about service interruptions. Make sure your contact information is up to date in the Utilities Customer Portal so we can notify you of planned or unexpected service interruptions affecting your area.
How can I conserve reclaimed water and reduce my bill?
Using reclaimed water efficiently helps conserve the available supply, maintain healthy landscapes and reduce water costs.
- Water only when needed, even on permitted watering days.
- Use a working rain shutoff device.
- Adjust irrigation schedules for seasonal conditions and avoid overwatering.
- Choose drought-tolerant plants suited to Florida’s climate.
- Use mulch to retain moisture and reduce evaporation.
- Inspect sprinklers and valves regularly and repair leaks.
When practical, choose an early morning watering window. Cooler temperatures reduce evaporation while allowing grass to dry after sunrise, helping prevent fungal diseases.
You can also monitor your water usage and identify potential leaks through the Utilities Customer Portal.
For more information, visit Pinellas.gov/water-conservation or Florida-Friendly Landscaping.
Is reclaimed water safe to use?
Yes. Reclaimed water is treated and disinfected to meet standards for approved uses, including watering lawns and most landscaping. However, it is not safe for drinking or household uses.
Reclaimed water cannot be used for:
- Drinking, cooking, bathing or household toilet flushing.
- Swimming pools, outdoor showers or recreational activities involving direct body contact.
- Washing vehicles, boats, equipment or buildings.
- Supplying decorative fountains.
- Connecting to drinking water systems or other water sources.
- Irrigating edible crops that will be eaten without peeling, cooking or other appropriate processing.
For complete requirements, view the Reclaimed Water Usage and Restrictions Ordinance.