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1. What are the identification requirements for pipes, valves and other equipment in reclaimed water service?

The minimum identification requirements are defined by Arizona Administrative Code (AAC) R18-9-601 through 603 for pipeline or open conveyance of reclaimed water.

The color purple shall be used for identifying all valves and other equipment used for conveying reclaimed water. For pipelines the pipe must be marked on opposite sides with “Caution: Reclaimed Water Line” labeling in intervals of three feet or less.

Above-ground reclaimed water piping must be labeled per the preceding paragraph and colored purple or wrapped with durable purple tape. Underground piping must be identified with one of the following alternatives:
- The pipe must be labeled per the preceding paragraph and colored purple or wrapped with durable purple tape.
- Identification sleeving (pipe socks) made from an inert polyethylene plastic, 4 mils thick, purple in color with the words “Caution: Reclaimed Water Line” or similar wording printed in 1-1/2" high black lettering continuously along the entire length may be installed on the pipe.
- Identification tape made from inert polyethylene plastic, 4.0 mils thick and no less than 3" wide with the words “Caution: Reclaimed Water Line” or similar wording printed in 1-1/2" high black lettering continuously along the entire length may be installed parallel to the centerline and on top of the pipe. The identification tape must be installed continuously for the entire length of the pipe and be securely fastened with plastic adhesive tape banded around both the pipe and the identification tape at no more than 4-foot intervals.

For additional guidelines for installing reclaimed water piping and equipment, MAG participants should reference Section 616 in the Maricopa Association of Government’s Uniform Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction (PDF).

2. What are the design requirements for wet well, basin, tank or reservoir overflows?

Overflows of reclaimed water must be contained and not allowed to spill onto the ground. A suitable means of onsite containment must be included in the design.

Counterweighted flapper valves or self-sealing valves which open and close automatically when an overflow occurs must be installed on the end of the overflow discharge pipe to prevent the ingress of birds and insects. For more information, please call 602-506-1058.

3. Can reclaimed water be discharged to a dry well?

Reclaimed water shall not be discharged to a drywell (for example, a storm water retention basin drywell) unless an Aquifer Protection Permit has been obtained from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality permitting such disposal. For more information, please call 602-506-1058.

4. Can reclaimed water be discharged to a storm water retention basin?

Reclaimed water can be discharged to a storm water retention basin, provided that the basin has vegetation. During a rain event reclaimed water cannot be discharged to the storm water retention basin if the basin discharges to the waters of the United States, unless an AZPDES permit approving such a discharge has been obtained from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. For more information, please call 602-506-1058.

5. Can reclaimed water be discharged to the waters of the United States?

Reclaimed water, including reclaimed water mixed with surface water, ground water or rain water may not be discharged to the waters of the United States unless an AZPDES permit approving such a discharge has been obtained from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. For more information, please call 602-506-1058.