Bradenton, FL Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)

Section 70-220 states the city's intent: to make reclaimed water available for irrigation and other authorized uses in areas where the city determines a distribution system is feasible and economical, built in sections and consistent with Chapter 62-610, Florida Administrative Code. Section 70-242 adopts that chapter by reference and provides that the more strict provision prevails in any variation. Reclaimed water is defined as water that has received at least advanced secondary treatment and basic disinfection.

Service is available only where a functioning reclaimed water distribution main is located within 100 feet of the property. Customers in designated service areas apply at the Department of Public Works, and service to subdivisions and multi-family complexes is considered when the city receives a petition signed by at least 50 percent of the residents. Service is never guaranteed: under section 70-230, no payment, application or petition guarantees it, and the city can refuse to extend service for a use detrimental to the system, an inadequate supply, unpaid fees or any other reason the director finds not beneficial to the city. A refusal or any other director decision under the article is appealable to the council, in open session, for a final and binding decision (section 70-241).

Section 70-232 sets the plumbing prerequisites. The customer needs an underground irrigation system with permanently placed sprinkler devices or below-ground hose bibbs in a locked valve box, temporary systems are not considered, and above-ground faucets are excluded unless the director approves them in writing. New systems follow Chapter 62-610 and the customer files an irrigation system plan before receiving service. The city installs and owns the flowmeter after sending the applicant an installation cost estimate (section 70-233). Section 70-234 requires an approved backflow prevention device on the potable supply and gives the city the right to enter the premises, with written consent given on the application. Customers maintain reclaimed lines on their own property (section 70-236).

The council sets rates, fees and charges by resolution after a public meeting, and service supplied outside the city carries a surcharge of 25 percent (section 70-223). The director can set schedules that restrict use at certain times to reduce maximum demand (section 70-225). Service outside the city limits within Manatee County is approved only if supply is adequate and the council approves it in open session (section 70-231).