Thinking about using reclaimed water to keep your Parrish lawn green while cutting down on utility costs? You’re not alone, and you’re asking a smart question for life in Manatee County. In this quick guide, you’ll learn what reclaimed water is, where it’s available in Parrish, how the rules work, and the steps to get connected safely. Let’s dive in.
Reclaimed water basics
Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater that is disinfected for safe, non-potable uses like landscape irrigation, parks, golf courses, and some agricultural needs. It is not for drinking or household use. You can review permitted uses and safety guidance on Manatee County’s reclaimed water page and Florida’s reuse rules for public-access systems. Manatee County explains reclaimed water and allowable uses, and the Florida DEP details labeling and cross-connection requirements in Chapter 62-610.
Using reclaimed water reduces demand on potable supplies and helps stretch resources during dry seasons. Manatee County promotes irrigation reuse to support local water conservation and community landscaping needs. You can learn more about county program goals and system operations on the reclaimed water program overview.
Parrish availability
Parrish is served by Manatee County’s reclaimed network in select neighborhoods, but service is not universal. The county operates over 200 miles of reclaimed piping, multiple pump stations, and large storage capacity that feeds residential, commercial, agricultural, and golf course irrigation in different parts of the county. Check the county’s utilities records and mapping resources or contact Manatee County Utilities to confirm availability for your specific address.
Supply can be seasonal. During dry periods, reclaimed demand can exceed supply, which may lead to lower pressure or intermittent availability. The county notes that reclaimed irrigation is not bound by the potable watering schedule, although availability is not guaranteed and conservation is encouraged. See Manatee County’s reclaimed water guidance for current advisories.
Watering rules
Potable vs reclaimed
Manatee County enforces an address-based schedule with time-of-day limits for irrigation that uses potable water. Reclaimed irrigation is exempt from the potable schedule. If you mix reclaimed water with any other source like potable, well, or pond water, that irrigation becomes subject to the potable rules. Review the county’s watering restrictions and conservation guidance before setting your timers.
Allowed uses
Manatee County permits reclaimed water for landscape irrigation, parks and common areas, golf courses, some agricultural uses, certain decorative water features with approval, and dust control with restrictions. Find the complete list on the reclaimed water program page.
Prohibited uses
Reclaimed water is not for drinking, bathing or swimming, filling pools, washing vehicles or structures, or household uses. Above-ground hose bibs and ordinary hose connections are not allowed for reclaimed service, and you cannot share a reclaimed connection between properties or interconnect it with other water sources without approval. See Manatee County’s prohibited-use guidance.
Labels and color
State rules require clear labeling and color coding of reclaimed piping and outlets, including “Do Not Drink” signage in English and Spanish with a symbol. The recommended color for non-metal reclaimed piping is Pantone Purple 522C, and Manatee County uses purple or lavender markings for visible hydrants and appurtenances. You can review labeling and public-access reuse requirements in F.A.C. 62-610.660 and the DEP’s cross-connection control guidance.
Cross-connection and backflow
Cross-connections between potable and reclaimed systems are strictly prohibited. Utilities must run cross-connection control programs, and homeowners are responsible for complying with inspections and device testing when required. Learn what applies to your property on Manatee County’s Backflow Prevention Assembly information page.
Testing and access
Many properties with in-ground irrigation, pools, or any secondary water source require an approved backflow assembly. These devices typically must be tested annually by an authorized tester, kept accessible, and free of vegetation.
Do not mix sources
If you convert an irrigation system to reclaimed service, it must be fully separated from the potable line. No interconnections or temporary valves are allowed. The county will verify separation during inspections.
How to connect
- Step 1: Check availability. Use the county’s utilities records and mapping resources or contact Manatee County Utilities to confirm whether reclaimed service is available for your Parrish address.
- Step 2: Understand meters and costs. The county will clarify whether you are served through a master or individual meter and explain the applicable rate structure. Ask about any connection fees and irrigation modifications required to separate potable from reclaimed lines. See the reclaimed water program overview for rate and policy details.
- Step 3: Plan for backflow and inspections. Expect cross-connection requirements and annual testing of any required assemblies. Review the county’s program at Backflow Prevention Assembly Information.
- Step 4: Retrofit smart. If converting from potable to reclaimed, permanently disconnect and cap the potable source to the irrigation system. Check for potential rebates and requirements, such as rain shut-off or ET/moisture sensors, on the county’s rebate programs page.
- Step 5: Follow signage and outlet rules. Do not add standard hose bibs to reclaimed service. Any visible outlets must meet county labeling and color standards. See the reclaimed water program page for details.
Smart irrigation tips
- Water early morning or evening to reduce loss from heat and wind. The county encourages avoiding irrigation between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Expect seasonal pressure changes. Plan flexible run times and use cycle-and-soak settings to manage low pressure during dry spells.
- Use a rain sensor or smart controller to prevent overwatering and meet rebate requirements.
- Inspect sprinklers quarterly for leaks, overspray onto sidewalks or streets, and broken heads.
- Group plants with similar water needs and adjust zones seasonally to save reclaimed supply.
Penalties
Manatee County can enforce watering and cross-connection rules, and Florida law authorizes civil penalties for water-resource violations. For the statutory framework, review Florida Statutes Chapter 373.129 and check county policies for current enforcement practices.
Need local guidance?
Whether you are weighing a move to Parrish or planning a new-build with reclaimed irrigation, you deserve clear answers and a smooth path forward. If you want neighborhood-level insights, builder guidance, or help coordinating next steps, reach out to The Suarez Group. We’re here to help you make confident decisions.
FAQs
Can I water any day with reclaimed water in Parrish?
- Irrigation that uses only reclaimed water is exempt from Manatee County’s potable watering schedule, but conservation is encouraged and supply can be limited; mixing reclaimed with other sources makes you subject to the potable schedule. See the county’s watering restrictions.
Can I use a hose to wash my car with reclaimed water?
- No. Above-ground hose bibs are not allowed on reclaimed systems and vehicle washing, pool filling, and household uses are prohibited. Review the reclaimed water permitted and prohibited uses.
How will I know which outlets carry reclaimed water?
- Reclaimed piping and outlets must be labeled “Do Not Drink” and color coded, with purple or lavender markings common in Manatee County; see F.A.C. 62-610.660 and the DEP’s cross-connection guidance.
Do I need a backflow preventer if I use reclaimed water?
- Many properties with in-ground irrigation or secondary water sources require a backflow assembly with annual testing by a certified tester; confirm your requirements on the county’s Backflow Prevention Assembly page.
What happens if I break watering or cross-connection rules?
- Violations can lead to county enforcement and civil penalties authorized by Florida law; review Chapter 373.129 and check with the county for current policies.
