Sparks, NV Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Eligible uses
- Commercial landscape, medians, golf courses, parks, construction water
- Not eligible
- Individual residential landscape irrigation
- Sprinkler hours
- 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. only; drip anytime
- Usage rate
- $0.96 per 1,000 gallons plus monthly base rate
- Connection fee
- Roughly $7,530 to $10,612 per acre-foot by zone
- Administered by
- Sparks Public Works Director
Summary
Sparks supplies reclaimed (recycled) wastewater through a separate pipeline system under Chapter 13.85, but only for landscape irrigation, construction water and similar non-potable uses; individual residential lawns cannot connect. Customers need a city permit, post warning signs, and pay a connection fee plus a per-gallon usage charge.
Service may be provided for the irrigation of commercial landscape, roadway medians, golf courses, parks, agricultural fields (with limitations), common areas of subdivisions, construction water and other uses permitted by law. Service shall not be provided for individual residential landscape. ... Operation of sprinkler irrigation systems is allowed only between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. and in accordance with the discharge permit. Drip irrigation may occur at any time.
Full Breakdown
85 of the Sparks Municipal Code, the "Requirements and Schedule of Rates and Charges for Reclaimed Water Service," governs the city's separate reclaimed water system. 020(A). 020(B)(10)(a). Irrigated sites must be posted with conspicuous warning signs stating that reclaimed water is used and should not be contacted, and drinking fountains must be covered during spray irrigation. 040(B) sets a per-acre-foot connection fee, historically $7,530 to $10,612 depending on the pressure zone and year, adjustable annually to the Engineering News Record Construction Cost Index. 30 for a 12-inch meter. 090.
Violations & Fines
Connecting to the reclaimed water system without a city permit and an NDEP-approved effluent management plan, tampering with curb stops, meters or valves, or watering with reclaimed water outside the 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. sprinkler window violates Chapter 13.85. The city can discontinue service for uncorrected leaks or waste within five days of notice, and unpaid bills become a lien against the property under Section 13.85.060(C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hook my house up to Sparks' reclaimed water for my lawn?
When can reclaimed water sprinklers run in Sparks?
How much does a reclaimed water connection cost in Sparks?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sparks
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Recycled Water Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Washoe County handle recycled water rules.