Hutto, TX Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)

Hutto's Drought Contingency Plan, Article 24.07 of the Code of Ordinances, otherwise bans using city water for dust control and for residential or commercial construction once the plan reaches its more severe stages. Section 24.07.039(b)(3)(C)(vi) provides that during Stage 3 (severe water shortage), 'use of water for dust control is absolutely prohibited, with the exception that type I recycled water can be applied where contact between humans and the recycled water is likely and type II recycled water can be applied where contact between humans and the recycled water is unlikely.' The identical Type I/Type II exception reappears at section 24.07.039(b)(4)(C)(iv) for Stage 4 (emergency water shortage), this time covering water used for residential or commercial construction.

The code does not define 'Type I' or 'Type II recycled water' itself or establish a citywide reclaimed-water distribution system; the terms function only as an exception to the potable-water bans within the drought plan. Builders, contractors or dust-control operators who want to keep working under Stage 3 or Stage 4 must therefore source Type I or Type II recycled water from elsewhere rather than draw on Hutto's potable supply, and the city manager or designee administers compliance with the drought stage in effect under section 24.07.035.