Corpus Christi explores reclaimed water for industrial customers and irrigation at parks and golf courses, while a proposed seawater desalination project at the Inner Harbor remains under TCEQ review and city council debate.
The city operates several wastewater treatment plants including Greenwood, Allison, and Whitecap, with effluent discharged to local bays under TCEQ permits. A reclaimed water pilot program serves select irrigation customers near treatment facilities, reducing potable demand. The proposed Inner Harbor desalination plant, championed by industry, faces opposition from environmental groups concerned about brine discharge into the ship channel. Reuse policies remain limited compared to Texas peers like El Paso and San Antonio. Future drought response may expand reuse mandates for industrial cooling and large landscape irrigation customers.
Cross-connection of reclaimed water to potable plumbing is prohibited under state plumbing code and TCEQ rules. Violations carry significant fines and required system disinfection before service restoration.
See how Corpus Christi's recycled water rules rules stack up against other locations.
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