Sacramento, CA Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- City Code Ch. 15.92, Water Efficient Landscape Requirements
- Recycled water design duty
- Systems must serve current & future reuse, § 15.92.180(A)
- ETAF cap for recycled-water areas
- 1.0, § 15.92.180(C)
- Applies to
- New landscapes ≥500 sq ft, rehabs ≥2,500 sq ft
- Approval gate
- Certificate of completion, § 15.92.130
Summary
Under City Code § 15.92.180, covered Sacramento landscape projects must design recycled water irrigation systems for both current and future use, built to all applicable local and state standards. Landscapes irrigated with recycled water count as 'special landscape areas,' letting them use more water than a typical hydrozone under the city's water budget.
A. The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water. B. All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable local and state laws. C. Landscapes using recycled water are considered special landscape areas. The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
Full Breakdown
020(A) to new construction landscape projects of 500 square feet or more and rehabilitated landscape projects of 2,500 square feet or more that need a building or landscape permit, plan check, or design review, plus specified existing landscapes and cemeteries. 0', a higher allowance than standard hydrozones get, reflecting the lower potable-water impact of recycled irrigation. 130(C), with reapplication and appeal information provided on denial.
Violations & Fines
Chapter 15.92 enforces recycled water design compliance through the permit-and-certificate process rather than a standalone fine: under § 15.92.060 the director reviews the landscape documentation package for compliance before approving the project, and under § 15.92.130(C) the director may deny the certificate of completion if the installed recycled-water system does not match what was approved, which withholds final sign-off until the applicant corrects the work or successfully appeals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sacramento require new landscaping to be built for recycled water?
Do recycled-water landscapes get a bigger water allowance?
Which Sacramento projects have to follow the water-efficient landscape chapter?
What if my installed recycled-water system doesn't match the approved plan?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sacramento
California rules heatmap·Compare Sacramento to another location·View the California water use rules overview
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Recycled Water Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Sacramento County handle recycled water rules.