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 Sydney Water Plumbing and Drainage inspector for any cross connections of the drinking water supply and recycled water supply.

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

Sydney Water's Recycled Water areas: plumbing guidelines (PDF - 0.94MB)
Sydney Water's recycling initiatives

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 - 1.31MB) of 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 of an accredited type as listed by NSW Department of Health.

All installed greywater treatment and diversion devices must be booked for an inspection by a Sydney Water Plumbing and Drainage Inspector.

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

Sydney Water's greywater information
Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW)
Federal Government Rebate

You can also email Sydney Water.