FAQs

The intent of the new regulations is to provide clear and consistent guidance for the design, permitting and operation of onsite water reuse systems which will result in streamlined project approval, and ensure the reuse systems are protective of public health.  

No, the regulations only apply to:  

o    voluntary installations in new commercial and multi-family developments; and 

o    developments associated with the current condensate reuse mandate for new commercial and multi-family properties with HVAC systems of 200 tons or larger

The new regulations will be located in Title 15 (Utility Regulations) of Local Code.

All new onsite water reuse systems installed in commercial and multi-family developments will be required to obtain engineered plan approval and a permit to operate the reuse system from Austin Water. There are certain exceptions to this permit requirement in the regulations. For example, onsite water reuse systems that use the water for subsurface or non-spray irrigation are exempt from these new permitting requirements.  In addition, single family developments will not require the new operational permit.

Yes, all other related permits will still be required, such as plumbing, mechanical and other building permits for the construction of the systems, as well as an auxiliary water system permit to ensure the reuse systems aren’t connected to the City’s drinking water or reclaimed water systems.  

Yes, the fee is scheduled to be in line with other utility review fees and is not expected to be significant.