Active Alerts

If you are experiencing a water, power, or sewer emergency or service problem call our 24-hour hotline at 3-1-1 or (415) 701-2311 from outside SF or log on at sf311.org. Learn more or review active service alerts.

Recycled Water

We must use this precious resource more than once.

sprinklers at Harding Park
Recycled water use at Harding Park Golf Course

Recycled water is a dependable, local supply that can be used for non-drinking demands such as irrigation and toilet flushing. Using recycled water for non-drinking purposes allows us to use the right resource for the right use. Our programs foster the use of recycled water to help meet non-drinking demands while enabling us to conserve drinking water and address emerging water supply challenges.

What is Recycled Water?

Recycled water is wastewater that has been carefully treated to be safe for a variety of non-drinking uses. Our recycled water meets the quality and safety standards set by the California State Water Resources Control Board, and treatments typically consist of filtration to remove solids, some bacteria, and other pollutants. We then disinfect the water to destroy any remaining bacteria and viruses using chemicals such as chlorine or non-chemical methods such as ultraviolet light.

San Francisco's Recycled Water Program

  • Our Westside Enhanced Water Recycling Project will begin irrigating Golden Gate Park with treated water in 2026, and eventually other locations including Lincoln Park Golf Course and the San Francisco Zoo. Read our frequently asked questions guide for more.
  • We partnered with Daly City to construct infrastructure to produce and deliver recycled water to irrigate Harding Park and Fleming Golf Courses. Since 2012, recycled water produced by the North San Mateo County Sanitation District, a subsidiary of Daly City, has been used to irrigate the golf courses.
  • The Pacifica Recycled Water Project was developed and constructed through a partnership with the North Coast County Water District (NCCWD). Recycled water deliveries from the NCCWD began in 2014 to irrigate the eastside of the Sharp Park Golf Course in Pacifica (one of our retail water customers), and other nearby areas.
  • The Recycled Water Ordinance requires property owners to install recycled water systems in new construction, modification, or remodel projects. The goal of the Ordinance is to maximize the use of recycled water. Buildings and facilities that are located within the designated recycled water use areas are required to use recycled water for all uses authorized by the State of California.

  • The Rules and Regulations for Users Receiving Recycled Water Service in the City and County of San Francisco outline the process for users to obtain Recycled Water Use Permits for landscape irrigation and other outdoor non-potable uses including but not limited to impoundments and decorative fountains and recycled water service from the Westside Enhanced Recycled Water Treatment Facility (when available).