Whittier, CA Water Use Rules: Recycled Water Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Local citation
- WMC § 13.43.180
- System requirement
- Must allow current and future recycled-water use
- Classification
- Recycled-water landscapes = 'special landscape area'
- ET adjustment factor cap
- 1.0 (vs. 0.55/0.45 standard)
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor under § 13.43.060
Summary
Whittier's water-efficient landscaping ordinance requires recycled-water irrigation systems to be built for current and future recycled-water use. Municipal Code Section 13.43.180 makes any landscape irrigated with recycled water a 'special landscape area' subject to a stricter water-budget adjustment factor.
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 ET adjustment factor for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
Full Breakdown
43, Water Efficient Landscaping, governs recycled water use in covered landscape projects. Subsection A requires that 'the installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water,' meaning a system must be designed to accept recycled water even if it is not yet connected. Subsection B requires that all recycled water irrigation systems 'be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable local and state laws,' pulling in state recycled-water and cross-connection standards enforced through the city's backflow prevention program. 45 factor used for ordinary residential and non-residential landscapes. 110(B)(5) requires the irrigation design plan to detail the recycled water irrigation system. 020(A).
Violations & Fines
Section 13.43.060 makes any violation of Chapter 13.43, including the recycled-water design and installation standards in Section 13.43.180, a misdemeanor enforceable under Chapters 1.08 and 1.09 of the code, or grounds for the city to bring a civil action to enjoin or abate the violation. Cross-connection violations also trigger discontinuance of water service under the city's separate backflow prevention program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Whittier require using recycled water for landscaping?
What is a 'special landscape area' under this rule?
Which projects have to address recycled water in their plans?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Whittier
California rules heatmap·Compare Whittier to another location·View the California water use rules overview
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