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1. What is reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater produced through advanced treatment processes that removes solids and disinfect potential pathogens. The City of Durham’s reclaimed water meets all state requirements for use of reclaimed water for beneficial uses as outlined in our permit.

2. What is the benefit of using reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water provides a safe alternate water source for many non-domestic uses such as irrigation and reduces demand on the City’s drinking or “potable” water sources.

3. How is reclaimed water processed?

The wastewater treatment and disinfection process requires four steps:

• Step 1: Remove large solid materials. 
• Step 2: “Good” microorganisms break down smaller solids. 
• Step 3: Remove undesirable compounds and tiny suspended particles. 
• Step 4: Add chlorine to get rid of disease causing organisms.

4. Is reclaimed water safe?

YES. Durham meets the highest standards set by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Neighboring systems in Town of Cary, City of Raleigh and Orange Water and Sewer Authority have safely operated reclaimed water systems for several years with no documented public health issues.

5. How can reclaimed water be used?

The level of treatment of reclaimed water makes it acceptable for the following uses: 

• Irrigation of public and private landscapes and turf 
• Dust control for construction 
• Soil compaction for construction 
• Non-potable processes such as concrete production and cooling water 
• Industrial and commercial toilet flush and fire prevention systems where there are separate, non-potable plumbing lines 
• Decorative ponds and fountains 
• Street sweeping (not street cleaning) 
• Vehicle washing 
• Sewer cleaning (not washing) 
• Firefighting (users must meet Public Water Supply requirements) 
• Make-up water for brine slurry (applied to roads to prevent freezing) 
• Make-up water for preparation of pesticide solutions

6. Are there any uses of reclaimed water that are not allowed?

Yes, the degree of treatment required for the use of reclaimed water makes it unsuitable for the following purposes: 

• Drinking 
• Bathing
• Any interconnection with drinking water lines. 
• Recreational use involving body contact (i.e. swimming pools or outdoor showers). 
• Watering vegetables or other edible crops 
• Run off into or filling of swimming pools

7. How can I get reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is available from the Bulk Fill station at the North Durham Water Reclamation Facility at 1900 E. Club Blvd. Please note that only individuals who are certified to receive and haul reclaimed water use reclaimed water. Please contact the North Durham Water Reclamation Facility at 919-560-4384 or go to the City’s reclaimed water web page for more information on becoming certified.

8. What is the cost for reclaimed water?

The City of Durham provides reclaimed water from the bulk fill station at the North Durham Water Reclamation facility at NO cost to certified users.