Which pipe color indicates a reclaimed water line?

The color purple is specifically designated for reclaimed water lines in many water supply systems, including California. This color coding is established to help distinguish reclaimed water from other types of water lines, ensuring that people and workers can easily identify where reclaimed water is being transported.

Reclaimed water is treated wastewater that is reused for various purposes such as irrigation and industrial processes. The use of purple pipes minimizes the risk of cross-connection or accidental use of reclaimed water in applications where potable water is expected, thereby enhancing public health and safety.

The other colors associated with water lines typically represent different types of water. For instance, red often signifies fire protection lines, blue is generally used for potable water, and green can indicate stormwater or wastewater. Each color’s meaning is part of the uniform color-coding system used to promote safety and clarity in water management systems.