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Residential recycled (non-drinking) water system

When installing non-drinking water installations in a property, it is critical that there is no cross-connection between the drinking and non-drinking water supplies within the property.

In Sydney Water's recycled water areas, recycled water is only used for flushing toilets, washing machines (except laundry tubs), watering gardens, washing cars, filling ornamental ponds, fire fighting purposes and industrial purposes.

All recycled water installations must have an inspection on the main to meter, front run, rough in and a final inspection. The final inspection will include a comprehensive test by a NSW Fair Trading Plumbing and Drainage inspector for any cross connections of the drinking water supply and recycled water supply.

Information on audit inspections is available at the NSW Fair Trading website.

To book an audit inspection, call NSW Fair Trading on 1300 889 099 between 7.30am and 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday. Inspection hours are between 8 am and 4 pm, Monday to Friday (or after hours by arrangement).

For detailed information on Sydney Water's recycling requirements and initiatives refer to:

Residential greywater

Residential greywater is wastewater from baths, spas, hand basins, showers, washing machines, laundry tubs, kitchen sinks and dishwashers. Kitchen wastewater is not recommended due to the large amounts of grease, fat, food waste and detergents.

There are generally two preferred methods (PDF - 0.11MB) for re-using greywater, diversion and treatment.

All greywater diversion devices must be an approved type as registered on the NSW Department of Health website.

Greywater treatment systems must be accredited and listed on the NSW Health website.

All installed greywater treatment and diversion devices must be booked for an inspection by a NSW Fair Trading Plumbing and Drainage Inspector.

For more information on reusing greywater on residential properties refer to: