Irrigation must not use potable water. Project teams may either use landscaping that does not require irrigation or use on-site, non-potable resources (e.g., treated greywater or rainwater) to meet the irrigation demand. The use of water from a municipal reclaimed water system is also permitted if it meets the requirements listed under Municipal Reclaimed Water above. Potable water use for above-ground irrigation of urban agriculture is only allowed if it can be demonstrated that subsurface or other methods of irrigation are not feasible or the authority having jurisdiction requires it.
It is acceptable to use municipal water supply for temporary irrigation to establish plants before the 12-month performance period has begun. Municipal water is not allowed after the 12-month performance period has started, except as described above.
Interior Landscapes
Interior landscaping that requires a separate irrigation line, such as a green wall, must use non-potable water. Consistent with water use that is fit-for-purpose, occupants are encouraged to find non-potable sources for watering all interior plants, however, for interior plants that can be hand-watered from a container filled from a faucet, potable water may be used.
