San Marcos, CA Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- SMMC § 20.330.120
- ETAF cap for recycled-water areas
- 1.0 (vs. 0.55 residential default)
- Applies to
- New ≥500 sf or rehab ≥2,500 sf landscape
- Reviewing office
- Planning Division
- Sign-off document
- Certificate of Completion, § 20.330.070
Summary
San Marcos requires landscape irrigation systems on qualifying projects to be built and operated to allow current and future recycled water use, and treats any landscape irrigated with recycled water as a Special Landscape Area with its own water budget ceiling under Municipal Code Section 20.330.120.
A.The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water.B.Landscape using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET Adjustment Factor for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.C.All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable local and state laws.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 14 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
120 of the San Marcos Water Efficient Landscape Standards chapter sets three requirements for recycled water. First, new irrigation systems must be installed so they can accommodate recycled water now or later, even where a project is not currently served by a recycled water main. 060. Third, every recycled water irrigation system must be designed and operated consistent with all applicable local and state law, which includes the retail water purveyor's cross-connection and backflow rules. 020 to new construction with 500 square feet or more of landscape and rehabilitated projects of 2,500 square feet or more that need a building or landscape permit, plan check, or design review. 11). 070 until the installed system matches the approved plans.
Violations & Fines
A project that fails to design its irrigation system for recycled water compatibility, or that miscalculates its water budget by omitting the Special Landscape Area ETAF adjustment, will have its Landscape Documentation Package denied by the Planning Division under Section 20.330.070.C, delaying issuance of the building or landscape permit. Occupancy or final sign-off can be withheld until the irrigation audit required by Section 20.330.100 confirms the system was installed and is operating as approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does San Marcos require homeowners to use recycled water on landscaping?
What counts as a Special Landscape Area under this rule?
Which projects in San Marcos must comply with the recycled water design standard?
Who reviews compliance with the recycled water irrigation requirement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Marcos
California rules heatmap·Compare San Marcos to another location·View the California water use rules overview
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