Jacksonville Beach, FL Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)

Article VI of Chapter 32 establishes a reclaimed water system utility for the city and regulates the reclamation of treated wastewater and stormwater and the distribution and reuse of waters. Sec. 32-160 states three intents: reduce use of the city's water system supply for non-potable purposes, insure the quality of waters being distributed, and reserve all rights of ownership and sole franchise for the city.

Sec. 32-164 is the core rule. All reclaimed water comes from systems owned and operated by the city, with distribution from a system constructed by or under the direction of the city. The city reserves sole authority to permit an owner or user to connect upon submission of permit and account application requests, and to charge and collect all reclaimed water rates, charges and fees set by resolution. Sec. 32-163 confirms the schedule of rates, charges and fees is described, established and adjusted by resolution from time to time. The one carve-out is an onsite irrigation system fed by the owner's own stormwater, which needs proper permitting before and inspection during construction, must stay independent of every potable water system, and cannot cross connect with the drinking water or reclaimed water system. Every consumer of reclaimed water must also follow the city's cross-connection control regulations, policies and procedures.

Sec. 32-165 gives the city manager or the manager's authorized representative the authority to determine what type of reclaimed water service is rendered and to set policies and procedures for permitting and monitoring connections. Sec. 32-166 requires the applicant to grant the city easements and access at all reasonable hours, including to observe whether use adheres to the seasonal irrigation schedule. Sec. 32-167 and Sec. 32-168 bar anyone but city employees or authorized persons from tapping reclaimed mains or turning on service, and Sec. 32-169 says no reclaimed water or service is connected until the city plumbing inspector has inspected and approved the plumbing and connections. Sec. 32-170 disclaims city liability for damage from consumption, use or exposure to reclaimed water.