Safety Harbor, FL Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Exempted sources
- Treated effluent (reclaimed) and saltwater
- Governing section
- Sec. 24.39, Application
- Covered users
- Potable, private-well, surface-water users
- Shortage authority
- SWFWMD Ch. 40D-21, F.A.C.
- Non-exempt penalty
- Up to $500 fine, 60 days jail
Summary
Properties irrigating with treated effluent (reclaimed or recycled water) are exempt from Safety Harbor's water-shortage restrictions, unlike potable-water customers who face mandated watering-day limits when a shortage is declared.
The provisions of this article shall apply to all persons using the water resource, whether public or privately owned water utility systems, private wells, or private connections with surface water bodies. This article shall not apply to persons using treated effluent or saltwater.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 65 | Land Development Code: Supplement 20).
Full Breakdown
Safety Harbor's water restrictions article (Chapter 24, Article V) governs use of the water resource during declared shortages, including the city's mandatory irrigation-day schedule. Sec. 24.39 defines the article's scope to cover all persons using the water resource, whether public or privately owned utility systems, private wells, or private connections with surface water bodies, then carves out a specific exception for reuse water: the article does not apply to persons using treated effluent (reclaimed water) or saltwater. That means homes and businesses irrigating from the city's reclaimed water system, or from saltwater sources, are not bound by the shortage-driven watering restrictions imposed on potable-water users under SWFWMD's Chapter 40D-21, F.A.C.
Violations & Fines
The treated-effluent/saltwater exemption itself carries no penalty. Potable, well, or surface-water users who violate shortage restrictions face a civil fine up to $500 and/or up to 60 days jail under Sec. 24.42, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Safety Harbor's watering schedule apply if I irrigate with reclaimed water?
Who does the water-restrictions article still cover?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Safety Harbor
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Safety Harbor to another location·View the Florida water use rules overview
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