Noticing purple sprinkler heads or signs around your yard in Vintage Greens and wondering what that means for daily life? You are not alone. Many Windsor homes in this neighborhood are connected to the Town’s recycled water system for landscape irrigation. In this guide, you will learn how the program works, what to expect as a resident or buyer, and simple steps to keep your yard healthy and your home in compliance. Let’s dive in.
What recycled water means in Windsor
Windsor treats wastewater to a disinfected tertiary standard, which is the highest common nonpotable level used for irrigation and similar uses in California. That treatment level is regulated by the state and supports residential landscape irrigation when local rules are followed. Vintage Greens was built with recycled water infrastructure and is within the Town’s service area. You can learn more on the Town’s overview of recycled water in Windsor and the State Water Board’s recycled water program.
How service works in Vintage Greens
Permits and training
Before service is activated, you complete Windsor’s Recycled Water Application and, if required, a short training and on‑site inspection. The inspection checks for cross‑connection risks and confirms proper labeling and backflow protection. Most homes have a separate meter for recycled irrigation service. Review the Town’s Recycled Water User’s Guide and submit the Application and Use Permit to get started.
What to look for on your property
Recycled water systems are marked so you can tell them apart from potable plumbing. Look for purple pipe, purple tags on valves and sprinkler heads, and clear signs that say recycled water is not for drinking. You will also see a backflow device and labeling where the recycled system connects. The User’s Guide shows the required tags and locations in detail.
Billing and conservation benefits
Recycled water is generally priced lower than potable water, which can help manage irrigation costs. Using it for your landscaping also reduces demand on the region’s drinking water supply. Check the Town’s recycled water FAQs for current policy notes on service and rates.
Daily rules and safety basics
Recycled water is not for drinking. Do not use it to fill drinking containers. The Town does not allow recycled water in private pools or spas. Health agencies report strong safety records when programs meet regulatory standards, and Windsor monitors its system regularly. For a public health overview, see the CDC’s explanation of recycled water and reuse.
Landscaping and plant care
Salinity basics
Recycled water can carry more salts and nutrients than potable water. Some plant species are sensitive and may show leaf burn or stress over time if salts build up in soil. Long‑term success usually means choosing salt‑tolerant plants, scheduling irrigation to support root uptake, and occasionally applying extra water to flush salts below the root zone. The WateReuse Association’s guidance on salinity management and turf industry research from the USGA on turf and landscape impacts are helpful references.
Practical irrigation tips
- Water in the early morning to limit drift and evaporation.
- Adjust sprinkler heads to avoid overspray onto sidewalks or neighboring areas.
- Keep signs and purple markers in place and visible.
- Clean filters and flush emitters as part of routine maintenance.
- If plants show stress, consider soil testing for salinity and adjust schedules or plant choices. The Town’s User’s Guide includes best practices.
Buying or selling in Vintage Greens
What sellers should disclose
If your property uses recycled water, be transparent about the system. Provide copies of any permits, user agreements, backflow test records, and maintenance logs. Highlight Town rules, required labeling, and any inspections or approvals for system changes. California’s general disclosure duty covers material facts that affect a property’s value or desirability; see the Civil Code framework for transfer disclosures.
Buyer due diligence checklist
Ask the seller for:
- The property’s Recycled Water Use Permit or user agreement
- Recent backflow test and certification records
- Irrigation as‑built drawings that show recycled lines and devices
- Any Town notices, approvals, or corrections
- Recent utility bills that separate potable and recycled use
- Notes on plant choices or past salinity issues If any indoor nonpotable fixtures are present, verify permits and testing. You can also reference the Town’s Application and Use Permit to understand expectations.
System reliability and upgrades
Windsor continues to improve treatment, storage, and distribution through its NetZero Wastewater initiative. These upgrades aim to increase reuse, reduce discharges, and support reliable service for neighborhoods like Vintage Greens. Learn more about the program on the Town’s NetZero Wastewater page.
Ready to navigate a move in Windsor with confidence? Whether you are buying in Vintage Greens or preparing to sell, you deserve local guidance that makes every step clear and simple. For tailored advice and a plan that fits your goals, connect with Miranda Hanson.
FAQs
Is recycled water safe for lawns in Vintage Greens?
- Yes, Windsor provides disinfected tertiary recycled water, which is used for residential landscape irrigation under state and local rules. Keep required signage in place and avoid direct ingestion.
Can I irrigate edible gardens with Windsor’s recycled water?
- Title 22 allows irrigation of food crops under specific conditions when the water meets disinfected tertiary standards. Follow Town guidance, avoid overspray onto food preparation areas, and contact the Town for site‑specific recommendations.
How do I tell if my sprinklers use recycled water?
- Look for purple piping, tags on valves and sprinkler heads, and signs stating the water is not for drinking. Your irrigation system is typically on a separate recycled water meter.
What maintenance is my responsibility as a Windsor user?
- Keep labels and signs intact, test and maintain backflow devices, prevent runoff and overspray, and notify the Town before making changes to on‑site plumbing. The Town may require periodic inspections or tests.
Will a recycled water system affect resale value?
- There is no universal effect. Many buyers value lower irrigation costs and drought resilience, while others may weigh maintenance or plant selection needs. Clear disclosures and good maintenance records help buyers feel confident.
