New Port Richey's Water Use Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles water use rules a little differently. In New Port Richey, Florida, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Recycled Water Rules

New Port Richey bans potable-water irrigation and new irrigation wells within 100 feet of reclaimed water lines, pushing properties near the reclaimed system onto it instead.

Key details: Governing law: New Port Richey City Code § 24-57. Potable irrigation ban: within 100 ft of reclaimed lines. Well ban: new/rehab wells within 100 ft. Max penalty: $500 civil citation. Administered by: City Manager / Public Works Director.

Violating the reclaimed water division is enforced under § 24-63: pursuant to F.S. §§ 162.21 and 162.0415, violators are subject to citation and a civil penalty up to $500. The city may also discontinue reclaimed water service under § 24-55(f) for infractions.

Compared to other cities, New Port Richey takes a harder line on recycled water rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Turf Replacement Rebates

New Port Richey's Land Development Code caps high water-use turf at 75% of landscaped area and requires irrigated turfgrass to be consolidated in high-traffic or erosion-control zones near the Pithlachascotee River and other waterways.

Key details: High water-use turf cap: 75% of landscaped area. Waterfront mow buffer: 6 feet from water's edge. Slope limit: no mowed turf over 4:1 slope. Applies to: new development & redevelopment site plans.

Violating the turf and hydrozone limits is a violation of City Code chapter 24, article VII, enforceable under section 24-383 by citation, withheld certificate of occupancy, injunctive relief, or a fine under F.S. chapter 162.

The Bottom Line

New Port Richey'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 New Port Richey is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects New Port Richey's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.