El Paso, TX Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Desal plant
- Kay Bailey Hutchison
- Aquifer
- Hueco Bolson
- Reuse uses
- Parks, industry
- Future
- Pure Water Center
Summary
El Paso Water blends Rio Grande surface water, fresh and brackish groundwater, the Kay Bailey Hutchison desalination plant, and reclaimed wastewater for non-potable irrigation, with an advanced purification project under development for direct potable reuse.
Sec. 341.039. STANDARDS FOR GRAYWATER AND ALTERNATIVE ONSITE WATER. (a) The commission by rule shall adopt and implement minimum standards for the indoor and outdoor use and reuse of treated graywater and alternative onsite water for:(1) irrigation and other agricultural purposes;(2) domestic use;(3) commercial purposes; and(4) industrial purposes.(a-1) The standards adopted by the commission under Subsection (a)(2) must allow the use of graywater and alternative onsite water for toilet and urinal flushing.(b) The standards adopted by the commission must assure that the use of graywater is not a nuisance and does not threaten human health.
Full Breakdown
El Paso operates one of the most diversified water portfolios in the United States. The Kay Bailey Hutchison Desalination Plant, the largest inland desalination facility in the world, treats brackish Hueco Bolson groundwater for potable supply. Reclaimed water from EPWU treatment plants serves parks, golf courses, industrial customers, and aquifer recharge through the Hueco Bolson injection program. EPWU's Pure Water Center, advancing toward direct potable reuse, would be among the first such systems in the country. Reclaimed customers must meet cross-connection and signage standards. Use of reclaimed water for residential irrigation is generally not allowed.
Violations & Fines
Cross-connection violations can result in service termination and TCEQ enforcement. Penalties for unauthorized reclaimed water use are set by EPWU rules and tariffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tap reclaimed water for my home?
Is desalinated water in my tap?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Paso
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