12VAC5-635-70. End use tiers for rainwater harvesting systems.
The end use tier categorization of harvested rainwater is based on water quality, intended end uses, and associated potential for human contact through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. The examples of common-use applications are not intended to represent all possible applications. Where end use applications are not listed, or are subject to interpretation, the application shall be categorized based on the highest numbered applicable end use tier description. The end use tiers are as follows:
1. Tier 1. Low exposure end use: Nonpotable water use where humans will rarely come into contact with the treated rainwater due to the nature of the installation that limits direct or indirect contact under normal operation. Examples include trap primers, restricted access spray irrigation, surface and subsurface irrigation, and ice rinks. In this context, restricted access spray irrigation means spray irrigation in fenced or remote locations where human visitation is controlled or prevented.
2. Tier 2. Medium exposure end use: Nonpotable water use where human contact with treated rainwater is indirect or limited. Examples include toilet and urinal flushing, clothes washing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, evaporative cooling, and rooftop thermal cooling.
3. Tier 3. High exposure end use: Nonpotable water use where human contact with treated rainwater is direct. Examples include hose bibs, pressure washing, firefighting or protection and fire suppression, decorative fountains, vehicle washing, and nonrestricted spray irrigation.
4. Tier 4. Potable water end use: Intended for human consumption.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-248.2 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 41, Issue 5, eff. November 20, 2024.