Water Use Rules in Gilbert, AZ

If you live in Gilbert or are thinking about moving there, water use rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Gilbert has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of water use rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Recycled Water Rules

The Town of Gilbert requires a signed use agreement and town-authorized connection before reclaimed water is delivered to any property, and only public works department staff may turn it on. Unauthorized connections, resale, or plumbing that doesn't comply with the code are all prohibited.

Key details: Turn-on authority: Public works department staff only. Use agreement: Signed agreement required before delivery. Meter accuracy: Must register within 5 percent. Backflow testing: Annual test on reduced-pressure-zone assembly. Spray irrigation buffer: 20-foot setback from dwelling units.

Reclaimed water systems that fall out of compliance with the users manual, state, or county health regulations, or that have a failed backflow or cross-connection test, are subject to suspension of reclaimed water service under § 66-144(e)-(f) until the public works department confirms the required testing has been completed and passed.

Turf Replacement Rebates

Gilbert bars new artificial lakes and large turf areas from running on the town's drinking-water supply. Under Code of Gilbert § 66-356, any artificial lake built after October 8, 1996 must be filled with reclaimed water, and any turf-related facility of five acres or more created after that date must be watered with reclaimed water instead of potable water.

Key details: Governing section: Code of Gilbert § 66-356. Artificial lakes: Must use reclaimed water after Oct. 8, 1996. Turf-related facilities: 5+ acres must use reclaimed water. Turf-facility definition: 10+ acres water-intensive landscaping (§ 66-351). Enforcement: Code compliance officer (§ 66-353).

Article VIII designates the code compliance officer as enforcer under § 66-353, and because § 66-356 sets no standalone penalty, the Code's default penalty at § 1-5 applies: a violation is a civil offense carrying a sanction up to $500 unless another penalty is specified, or, if charged as a misdemeanor, a fine up to $2,500 and up to six months in jail, with each continuing day a separate offense.

The Bottom Line

Gilbert's water use rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Gilbert is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Gilbert's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.