SB 1173 Summary

• Defines "rainwater" as rain or snowmelt not entering storm drains or other channels and not previously used, and "raw water" as untreated surface or groundwater excluding remediated groundwater and rainwater.

• Expands recycled water mandate to cover use of raw or potable water for nonpotable municipal or industrial uses (cemeteries, golf courses, parks, irrigation), declaring such use wasteful if suitable recycled water is available and reliable.

• Requires recycled water to meet conditions including adequate quality, reasonable cost comparable to raw/potable water, no public health detriment, and no adverse effects on downstream water rights or water quality.

• Prohibits persons and public agencies from using raw or potable water suitable for municipal or industrial nonpotable uses if suitable recycled water is available.

• Applies same recycled water requirements to landscaping irrigation and use in floor trap priming, cooling towers, and air-conditioning devices.