Omaha does not currently operate a residential purple-pipe reclaimed-water network. Limited reuse occurs at the Papillion Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant for industrial cooling, while greywater systems require Nebraska plumbing-code approval.
Unlike arid-state cities, Omaha lacks a citywide reclaimed-water distribution system. The Papillion Creek and Missouri River wastewater plants discharge treated effluent under NPDES permits. Some industrial customers reuse process water on site. Residential greywater systems (laundry-to-landscape, etc.) must comply with the Nebraska State Plumbing Code and obtain a permit through the Omaha Permits and Inspections Division. Rainwater harvesting for outdoor use is permitted without restriction. Cross-connection between potable and non-potable systems is strictly prohibited.
Unpermitted greywater systems may be ordered removed and carry plumbing-code fines of $100-$500. Cross-connections risk water shutoff and Class III misdemeanor charges.
See how Omaha's recycled water rules rules stack up against other locations.
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