The Department of Environmental Protection is revising Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., to correct regulatory references and clarify current language which will ensure proper regulation for the use of reclaimed water in the state ....

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

RULE NOS.:RULE TITLES:

62-610.100 Purpose, and Applicability

62-610.200 Definitions

62-610.300 General Technical Guidance, Related Rules, Technical Publications and Forms

62-610.310 Engineering Report

62-610.320 Operation and Maintenance Requirements and Operating Protocols

62-610.330 Pretreatment Programs

62-610.412 Monitoring of Reclaimed Water and Ground Water

62-610.414 Storage Requirements

62-610.417 Surface Runoff Control and Subsurface Drainage

62-610.418 Access Control and Advisory Signs

62-610.419 Application/Distribution Systems and Cross-Connection Control

62-610.421 Setback Distances

62-610.450 Description of System

62-610.451 Minimum System Size

62-610.460 Waste Treatment and Disinfection

62-610.462 Reliability and Operator Staffing

62-610.463 Monitoring and Operating Protocol

62-610.464 Storage Requirements

62-610.466 Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR)

62-610.469 Application/Distribution Systems and Cross-Connection Control

62-610.471 Setback Distances

62-610.472 Supplemental Water Supplies

62-610.473 Hydraulic Loading Rates

62-610.475 Edible Crops at Commercial Agricultural Operations

62-610.476 Toilet Flushing and Fire Protection

62-610.480 Other Reuse Applications

62-610.491 Additional Operation and Maintenance Requirements

62-610.500 Description of System

62-610.510 Waste Treatment, Disinfection, and Monitoring

62-610.514 Storage Requirements

62-610.517 Surface Runoff Control and Subsurface Drainage

62-610.521 Setback Distances

62-610.523 Design and Operation Requirements

62-610.525 Projects Involving Additional Levels of Preapplication Treatment

62-610.550 Description of System

62-610.553 Minimum System Size

62-610.554 Discharge to Class I Surface Waters

62-610.555 Discharge to Other Surface Waters

62-610.556 Land Application

62-610.560 Ground Water Recharge by Injection

62-610.562 Salinity Barrier Systems

62-610.563 Waste Treatment and Disinfection

62-610.564 Pilot Testing Program

62-610.567 Reliability and Operator Staffing

62-610.568 Monitoring and Operating Protocol

62-610.571 Setback Distances

62-610.573 Storage Requirements

62-610.574 Access Control, Advisory Signs, and Public Notification

62-610.610 Waste Treatment and Disinfection

62-610.613 Monitoring of Effluent and Ground Water

62-610.614 Storage Requirements

62-610.617 Surface Runoff Control

62-610.621 Setback Distances

62-610.650 Description of System

62-610.652 Waste Treatment, Disinfection, and Monitoring

62-610.656 Storage Requirements

62-610.662 Setback Distances

62-610.668 Cooling Water Applications

62-610.669 Use of Reclaimed Water at Wastewater Treatment Plants

62-610.670 Industrial Discharge Limitations

62-610.800 Permitting Requirements

62-610.810 Classification of Projects as “Reuse” or “Disposal”

62-610.820 Reuse Feasibility Studies

62-610.830 Storage Lakes and Ponds

62-610.850 Protection of Surface Water and Ground Water Quality

62-610.860 Limited Wet Weather Discharge

62-610.865 Blending of Demineralization Concentrate with Reclaimed Water

62-610.870 Reporting and Enforcement

62-610.890 General Permit for Adding New Major Users to a Part III Reuse System

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The Department of Environmental Protection is revising Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., to correct regulatory references and clarify current language which will ensure proper regulation for the use of reclaimed water in the state of Florida. The proposed revisions add clarity to both substantive and administrative aspects of the chapter.

SUMMARY: Proposed revisions to Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., correct regulatory references and clarify current language consistent with other title 62 chapters. Revisions include updating DEP Form 62-610.300(2)(a)2 “Annual Reuse Report” to require electronic submittal of the form through the Department’s online business portal. Revisions to DEP Form 62-610.300(2)(a)4, “Pathogen Monitoring” requires the electronic submittal of the form and eliminates the requirement for permittees to submit paper copies to multiple Department programs/offices. Two separate rulemaking efforts will be undertaken by the Department in order to amend the chapter. Phase I addresses revisions as outlined above. Phase II will address revisions to Rule chapter 62-610, F.A.C., Chapter 62-600, F.A.C. and Chapter 625, F.A.C. necessary to adopt recommendations of the Potable Reuse Commission’s 2020 report “Advancing Potable Reuse in Florida: Framework for the Implementation of Potable Reuse in Florida” as required by Florida’s Clean Waterways Act of 2020.

OTHER RULES INCORPORATING THESE RULES:

62-600.200, 62-600.430, 62-600.440, 62-600.445, 62-600.540, 62-600.550, 62-600.720, 62-600.740, 62-625.110, 62-625.500, 62-620.310, 62-620.620, 62-620.625, 62-620.630, 62-621.500.

SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COSTS AND LEGISLATIVE RATIFICATION: The agency has determined that this rule will not have an impact on small business or likely increase directly or indirectly regulatory cost in excess of $200,000 in the aggregate within one year after implementation of the rule. A SERC has not been prepared by the agency.

The Agency has determined that the proposed rule is not expected to require legislative ratification based on the statement of estimated regulatory costs or if no SERC is required, the information expressly relied upon and described herein: Based on the Department’s economic review, neither a SERC nor legislative ratification is required because the adoption of the proposed rule does not increase regulatory costs directly or indirectly to the public. The proposed revisions contain procedural changes and clarifications to ensure consistency with other Department rules. The electronic submittal of the Annual Reuse Report via the Department’s online business portal and the electronic submittal of the Pathogens Monitoring Data would reduce costs to permittees by providing a faster, simpler and more efficient data submittal process.

Any person who wishes to provide information regarding a statement of estimated regulatory costs or provide a proposal for a lower cost regulatory alternative must do so in writing within 21 days of this notice.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY: 403.051, 403.061, 403.064, 403.087 FS.

LAW IMPLEMENTED: 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS.

IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE SCHEDULED AND ANNOUNCED IN THE FAR:

Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in this workshop/meeting is asked to advise the agency at least 5 days before the workshop/meeting by contacting: Alexandra Spencer, Senior Program Analyst, Division of Water Resource Management, MS 3545, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399, (850)245-8638 or by email at Alexandra.Spencer@FloridaDEP.gov. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency by using the Florida Relay Service, 1 (800) 955-8771 (TDD) or 1 (800) 955-8770 (Voice).

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS:

Alexandra Spencer, Senior Program Analyst, Division of Water Resource Management, MS 3545, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399, (850)245-8638 or by email at Alexandra.Spencer@FloridaDEP.gov.

THE FULL TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE IS:

CHAPTER 62-610

REUSE OF RECLAIMED WATER AND LAND APPLICATION

PART I GENERAL

62-610.100 Purpose, and Applicability

62-610.200 Definitions

62-610.300 General Technical Guidance, Related Rules, Technical Publications and Forms

62-610.310 Engineering Report

62-610.320 Operation and Maintenance Requirements and Operating Protocols

62-610.330 Pretreatment Programs

PART II SLOW-RATE LAND APPLICATION SYSTEMS; RESTRICTED PUBLIC ACCESS

62-610.412 Monitoring of Reclaimed Water and Ground Water

62-610.414 Storage Requirements

62-610.417 Surface Runoff Control and Subsurface Drainage

62-610.418 Access Control and Advisory Signs

62-610.419 Application/Distribution Systems and Cross-Connection Control

62-610.421 Setback Distances

PART III SLOW-RATE LAND APPLICATION SYSTEMS; PUBLIC ACCESS AREAS, RESIDENTIAL IRRIGATION, AND EDIBLE CROPS

62-610.450 Description of System

62-610.451 Minimum System Size

62-610.460 Waste Treatment and Disinfection

62-610.462 Reliability and Operator Staffing

62-610.463 Monitoring and Operating Protocol

62-610.464 Storage Requirements

62-610.466 Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR)

62-610.469 Application/Distribution Systems and Cross-Connection Control

62-610.471 Setback Distances

62-610.472 Supplemental Water Supplies

62-610.473 Hydraulic Loading Rates

62-610.475 Edible Crops at Commercial Agricultural Operations

62-610.476 Toilet Flushing and Fire Protection

62-610.480 Other Reuse Applications

62-610.491 Additional Operation and Maintenance Requirements

PART IV RAPID-RATE LAND APPLICATION SYSTEMS (RAPID INFILTRATION BASINS AND ABSORPTION FIELDS)

62-610.500 Description of System

62-610.510 Waste Treatment, Disinfection, and Monitoring

62-610.514 Storage Requirements

62-610.517 Surface Runoff Control and Subsurface Drainage

62-610.521 Setback Distances

62-610.523 Design and Operation Requirements

62-610.525 Projects Involving Additional Levels of Preapplication Treatment

PART V GROUND WATER RECHARGE AND INDIRECT POTABLE REUSE

62-610.550 Description of System

62-610.553 Minimum System Size

62-610.554 Discharge to Class I Surface Waters

62-610.555 Discharge to Other Surface Waters

62-610.556 Land Application

62-610.560 Ground Water Recharge by Injection

62-610.562 Salinity Barrier Systems

62-610.563 Waste Treatment and Disinfection

62-610.564 Pilot Testing Program

62-610.567 Reliability and Operator Staffing

62-610.568 Monitoring and Operating Protocol

62-610.571 Setback Distances

62-610.573 Storage Requirements

62-610.574 Access Control, Advisory Signs, and Public Notification

PART VI OVERLAND FLOW SYSTEMS

62-610.610 Waste Treatment and Disinfection

62-610.613 Monitoring of Effluent and Ground Water

62-610.614 Storage Requirements

62-610.617 Surface Runoff Control

62-610.621 Setback Distances

PART VII INDUSTRIAL USES OF RECLAIMED WATER

62-610.650 Description of System

62-610.652 Waste Treatment, Disinfection, and Monitoring

62-610.656 Storage Requirements

62-610.662 Setback Distances

62-610.668 Cooling Water Applications

62-610.669 Use of Reclaimed Water at Wastewater Treatment Plants

62-610.670 Industrial Discharge Limitations

PART VIII PERMITTING

62-610.800 Permitting Requirements

62-610.810 Classification of Projects as “Reuse” or “Disposal”

62-610.820 Reuse Feasibility Studies

62-610.830 Storage Lakes and Ponds

62-610.850 Protection of Surface Water and Ground Water Quality

62-610.860 Limited Wet Weather Discharge

62-610.865 Blending of Demineralization Concentrate with Reclaimed Water

62-610.870 Reporting and Enforcement

62-610.890 General Permit for Adding New Major Users to a Part III Reuse System

PART I GENERAL

62-610.100 Purpose, and Applicability.

(1) Sections 403.064(1) and 373.250(1), F.S., establish the encouragement and promotion of water conservation and reuse of reclaimed water as state objectives and state that water conservation and reuse are in the public interest.

(2) Section 403.021(2), F.S., as amended, establishes that no wastes are to be discharged to any waters of the state without first being given the degree of treatment necessary to protect the beneficial uses of such water. Sections 403.085 and 403.086, F.S., set forth requirements for the treatment and reuse or disposal of domestic wastewater. Section 403.051(2)(a), F.S., requires that any Department planning, design, construction, modification or operating standards, criteria, and requirements for wastewater facilities be developed as a rule. This chapter is promulgated to implement the requirements of sections 403.051, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088, F.S., concerning domestic wastewater facilities.

(3) It is the policy of the Department to encourage an applicant, before submittal of a permit application, to evaluate alternative wastewater management techniques and to discuss alternatives with the Department.

(a) The Department encourages inclusion of public health, economic, scientific, energy, engineering and environmental considerations in such evaluations. Each prospective domestic wastewater facility shall be assessed on an individual basis.

(b) The Department encourages environmentally acceptable alternatives which provide the most economic and energy efficient methods of complying with the requirements of this rule, and promote the beneficial reuse of reclaimed waters and treated residuals.

(4) The Commission, recognizing the complexity of water quality management and the necessity to temper regulatory actions with the realities of technological progress and social and economic well-being, nevertheless, intends to prohibit any discharge that constitutes a hazard to human health.

(5) These rules shall be construed to assure that all waters of the state shall be free from components of wastewater discharges which, alone or in combination with other substances, are acutely toxic; are present in concentrations which are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or teratogenic to humans, animals, or aquatic species; or otherwise pose a serious threat to the public health, safety, and welfare.

(6) This rule contains the specific reuse and land application requirements of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and of Local Pollution Control Programs approved and established pursuant to section 403.182, F.S., where such authority has been delegated to those programs. It may be necessary for domestic wastewater facilities to conform with requirements of other agencies, established via interagency agreements (e.g., for mosquito control). The absence of reference to such arrangements in this rule does not eliminate the need to comply with those requirements.

(1)(7) The purpose of Cchapter 62-610, F.A.C., is to provide design and operation and maintenance criteria for land application systems that may discharge reclaimed waters or domestic wastewater effluent to Class G-II ground waters and to a limited extent to Class G-I and F-I ground waters (as defined by Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C.). This chapter also provides design and operation and maintenance criteria for surface water discharge projects involving reuse for ground water recharge, indirect potable reuse, or other beneficial purposes described in this chapter. The requirements in this rule shall apply to systems involving potential discharges to Class G-I and F-I ground waters (as defined by Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C.) to the extent that these rule provisions do not conflict with requirements for G-I and F-I ground waters. Supported by moderating provisions, it is intended that Cchapter 62-610, F.A.C., establish a framework whereby design flexibility and sound engineering practice can be used in developing systems with which to manage domestic wastewater in an environmentally sound manner. This chapter rule contains operation and maintenance requirements so as much information as possible on reuse and land application can be presented in a single chapter. rule.

(2)(8) Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall be used in conjunction with Cchapter 62-600, F.A.C. Systems shall be designed in accordance with sound engineering practice. Minimum design waste treatment and disinfection standards are specified in Rrules 62-600.420 and 62-600.440, F.A.C. Additional waste treatment standards, where appropriate, are addressed in this chapter. rule.

(3)(9) Applicability.

(a) No change.

(b) Unless specifically provided otherwise in this chapter, requirements in this chapter shall apply to all new reuse and land application systems for which construction permit applications or initial permits which authorize construction are approved by the Department on or after April 5, 1989. This chapter also shall apply to all existing facilities when such facilities are to be modified or expanded, but this chapter shall apply only to the expansion or modification thereof, or if treatment processes are altered such that the quality of reclaimed water or effluent or reliability of such processes is adversely affected. Re-rating of an existing reuse or land application system or site such that the permitted capacity of the system or site is increased shall be considered an expansion, even if there is no increase in physical size of the system or site.

(c) All reuse systems, to which construction permits were approved by the Department on or before April 5, 1989, involving irrigation of public access areas, residential properties, and edible crops (systems subject to regulation under Ppart III of this chapter rule), shall meet the waste treatment and disinfection requirements contained in subsection 62-610.460(1), F.A.C. The waste treatment and disinfection requirements contained in subsection 62-610.460(1), F.A.C., shall not apply to citrus irrigation systems if:

1. Public access shall be restricted,

2. The reclaimed water shall not directly contact the fruit,

3. The fruit that is produced shall be processed before human consumption; and,

4. Secondary treatment and basic disinfection shall be provided.

(d) through (e) No change.

(f) The requirements of Pparts V and VII of this chapter and Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C., shall apply to projects for which complete permit applications that request authorization for construction of domestic wastewater treatment facilities or reuse facilities were received by the Department after August 8, 1999, unless specifically stated otherwise within this chapter.

(g) Requirements for setback distances to unlined storage ponds in subsection 62-610.521(10), F.A.C., shall apply to new unlined storage ponds. These setback distances shall not apply to existing installations, as defined in Rrule 62-521.200, F.A.C.

(h) Subsections and subsections and Rrules 62-610.421(10), 62-610.466, 62-610.471(9), 62-610.472, 62-610.652(5), 62-610.668(2) and 62-610.865, F.A.C., shall apply to projects for which complete permit applications that request authorization for construction of domestic wastewater treatment facilities or reuse facilities were received by the Department on or after August 8, 1999. These subsections and rules also shall apply to existing projects which are being expanded or modified; however, these rule requirements shall apply only to the expanded or modified portion of the project.

(i) No change.

(j) The Cryptosporidium and Giardia sampling required by subsections and paragraphs 62-610.463(4), 62-610.472(3)(d), 62-610.525(13), 62-610.568(10), 62-610.568(11) and 62-610.652(6)(c), F.A.C., shall apply to all (new and existing) facilities that provide reclaimed water for the types of reuse activities regulated by the part of this chapter that contains the rule requiring this sampling. The Cryptosporidium and Giardia sampling required by paragraph 62-610.472(3)(d), F.A.C., shall apply to all (new and existing) facilities that use surface water or treated stormwater as supplemental water supplies for a reuse system regulated under Part III of this chapter.

(k) No change.

(l) Existing facilities (those that had construction permit applications or initial permit applications which authorized construction approved by the Department on or before April 5, 1989) shall comply with the requirements of Ppart III of this chapter. 62-610, F.A.C., on January 1, 2010. This applies only to facilities that make reclaimed water available for one or more activities regulated by Part III of this chapter (such as irrigation of public access areas, residential properties, or edible crops; toilet flushing; fire protection; construction dust control; aesthetic purposes; or other activities listed in Rrule 62-610.480, F.A.C.). These existing projects previously have been granted grandfathering protection under paragraphs 62-610.100(9)(b) and (c), F.A.C. All permit applications submitted for these existing facilities between August 8, 1999 and December 31, 2009, shall describe construction and other actions needed to bring these facilities into compliance with the Part III requirements by January 1, 2010. Existing facilities are exempt from tThe following portions of Ppart III of this chapter: will not apply to existing facilities on January 1, 2010:

1. Minimum system size in Rrule 62-610.451, F.A.C.

2. The color coding requirements in paragraph 62-610.469(7)(f), F.A.C. This exemption applies exclusion will apply to all existing reclaimed water pipes installed before January 10, 2010.

3. Setback distance requirements in Rrule 62-610.471, F.A.C. This exemption applies exclusion will apply to all existing reclaimed water pipes and existing areas receiving reclaimed water. Pipes installed constructed on or after January 1, 2010, and new or expanded areas constructed on or after January 1, 2010, to receive reclaimed water shall comply with the setback distance requirements.

(4)(10) Other Reuse and Land Application Systems. The Department shall approve preapplication treatment, disinfection, reliability, storage, setback distance, monitoring, and other design and operational control measures for reuse and land application systems not addressed in Pparts II, III, IV, V, VI, or VII, including systems comprising components of slow-rate, rapid-rate, or overland flow involving potential discharges to ground water or surface water, if the applicant provides reasonable assurances in the engineering report that the design and operational controls proposed by the applicant will result in compliance with ground water quality and surface water quality standards and that public health will be protected. To the extent practicable, design and operational control measures should be established based on the most similar reuse or land application type described in Pparts II, III, IV, V, VI, or VII based on system design, application rates, land management practices, and potential for affecting ground water or surface water quality and uses.

(5)(11) The Department encourages efficient and effective use of reclaimed water featuring relatively high potable quality water offset or recharge fractions such as described in Table 5 in the publication entitled, Water Reuse for Florida: Strategies for Effective Use of Reclaimed Water.

(6) Potable reuse projects are considered projects of hightened public interest for the purpose of subection 62-110.106(6), F.A.C., and subparagraph 62-110.106(7)(a)1, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.064, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.064, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.100, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, 11-19-07, .

62-610.200 Definitions.

Terms used in this chapter rule shall have the meaning specified below. The meaning of any term not defined below may shall be taken from definitions in other rules of the Department.

(1) No change.

(2) “Aquifer” means the same as defined in Rule 62-520, F.A.C. a geological formation, group of formations, or part of a formation (stratum) that is capable of yielding potentially usable quantities of water from wells or springs.

(3) through (4) No change.

(5) “Blend ratio” means the ratio of the flow of reclaimed water to the flow of concentrate in a blending operation, as described in Rrule 62-610.865, F.A.C.

(6) “Carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand (CBOD5)” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. the quantity of oxygen utilized in the carbonaceous biochemical oxidation of organic matter present in a water or wastewater, reported as a five-day value determined using approved methods.

(7) No change.

(8) “Demineralization concentrate” means the same as defined in Rule 62-620.200, F.A.C. the concentrated byproduct water, brine, or reject water produced by ion exchange or membrane separation technologies (such as reverse osmosis, membrane softening, ultra-filtration, membrane filtration, electrodialysis, and electrodialysis reversal) used for desalinization, softening, or reducing total dissolved solids during water treatment for public water supply purposes. Within this chapter, demineralization concentrate will also be referred to as “concentrate.”

(9) through (10) No change.

(11) “Direct contact irrigation” and “direct application” mean an irrigation method, such as spray irrigation, resulting in reclaimed water directly contacting the edible crop.

(11)(12) “Disinfection” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. selective destruction of pathogens in reclaimed water, wastewater effluents, and residuals.

(13) through (14) renumbered (12) through (13) No change.

(14)(15) “Domestic wastewater” means the same as defined in Rule 62-620.200, F.A.C. wastewater derived principally from dwellings, business buildings, institutions, and the like; sanitary wastewater; sewage. Where wastewater from sources other than typical domestic sources (e.g., industrial sources) is combined and treated with wastes from domestic sources, the determination of whether or not the wastewater treatment plant is designated as “domestic” shall be made by the Department considering any or all of the following: residuals classification; whether wastewaters have been pretreated or contain constituents within 50-150%, by concentration, of typical domestic wastewater; and whether the permittee, when not required to provide more stringent or otherwise specific levels of treatment, can provide assurance of facility compliance with domestic wastewater treatment standards contained in chapter 62-600, F.A.C.

(16) through (18) renumbered (15) through (17) No change.

(18)(19) “Effluent limitation” means the same as defined in Rule 62-620.200, F.A.C. any restriction established by the Department on quantities, rates, or concentrations of chemical, physical, biological, or other constituents which are discharged from sources into the environment of the state.

(19)(20) No change.

(20)(21) “Estuary” means the same as defined in Rule 62-303.200, F.A.C. a semi-enclosed naturally existing coastal body of water which has a free connection with the open sea and within which the chloride concentration at the surface is equal to or greater than 1,500 milligrams per liter.

(21)(22) No change.

(22)(23) “Ground water” means the same as defined in Rule 62-520.200, F.A.C. water below the land surface in the zone of saturation where water is at or above atmospheric pressure.

(23)(24) “Holding pond” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. a storage tank or artificial impoundment or pond constructed above, on, below, or partly below the ground surface that is designed and maintained to store a specific volume of fluid and minimize fluid losses other than those primarily occurring by evaporation; generally, holding ponds are not intended to provide a mechanism for pollutant reduction. When used in conjunction with rapid-rate land application systems or other systems described in this rule, holding ponds can also provide a mechanism to accomplish nitrogen reduction.

(24)(25) No change.

(25)(26) “Indirect application irrigation” and “Iindirect contact irrigation” mean irrigation methods, such as ridge and furrow irrigation, drip irrigation, and subsurface distribution systems, which minimize direct contact of reclaimed water with the edible crops crop.

(27) through (28) renumbered (26) through (27) No change.

(28)(29) “Land application” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. reuse of reclaimed water or the disposal of effluent on, above, or into the surface of the ground through spray irrigation, other irrigation techniques, rapid-rate systems, absorption fields, overland flow systems, or other methods.

(30) “Local program” means any county, municipality, or combination thereof that has established and administers a pollution control program approved by the Department in compliance with section 403.182, F.S., as amended.

(31) “Milligrams per liter (mg/L)” means the quantity of material present in water or wastewater expressed on the basis of the weight (milligrams) per unit volume of solution (liter).

(29)(32) “Modification” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. any alteration, expansion, upgrade, extension, addition, or replacement of an existing wastewater or reuse facility for which a permit is required from the Department after the effective date of this rule.

(30)(33) “Monitoring well” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. a strategically located well from which ground water levels are measured and samples are withdrawn for water quality analysis.

(31)(34) “Nitrate (NO3)” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. nitrogen content present in water or wastewater attributable to the nitrate (NO3-) ion and expressed as elemental nitrogen, N, as determined using approved methods.

(32)(35) No change.

(33)(36) “Operator” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. any person who is principally engaged in and is in charge on-site of the actual treatment plant operation and includes the person who is in charge of treatment plant operation for a shift or period of operation during any part of the day, as certified in accordance with chapter 61E12-41, F.A.C.

(37) through (38) renumbered (34) through (35) No change.

(36)(39) “Permittee” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. person or entity to which a permit for a wastewater facility is issued by the Department. The term “permittee” shall be functionally synonymous with the terms “owner” and “licensee,” but shall not include licensed individuals (e.g., operators) unless they are the person(s) to whom a facility permit is issued by the Department. The term shall extend to a permit “applicant” for purposes of this rule. To the extent that this rule imposes duties with respect to the construction, operation, maintenance or monitoring of a facility and for reporting to or securing permits from the Department, ultimate responsibility lies with the owner of the facility. Nevertheless, chapter 403, F.S., creates joint and several liability for those responsible for violations.

(37)(40) “pH” means the the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C.negative common logarithm of the hydrogen-ion activity in moles per liter, as determined using approved methods.

(38)(41) “Pollution” means same as defined in Section 403.031(7), F.S. the presence in the outdoor atmosphere or waters of the state of any substances, contaminants, noise, or man-made or man-induced alteration of the chemical, physical, biological, or radiological integrity of air or water in quantities or levels which are or may be potentially harmful or injurious to human health or welfare, animal or plant life, or property, including outdoor recreation.

(42) through (43) renumbered (39) through (40) No change.

(41)(44) “Preapplication waste treatment” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. that level of treatment provided prior to application of reclaimed water or wastewater to a land application system.

(42)(45) No change.

(43)(46) “Public water supply well” means a well constructed for the purpose of supplying water to a public water system, as defined in Rrule 62-550.200, F.A.C., or in chapter 64E-8, F.A.C.

(44)(47) No change.

(45)(48) “Reclaimed water,” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. except as specifically provided in chapter 62-610, F.A.C., means water that has received at least secondary treatment and basic disinfection and is reused after flowing out of a domestic wastewater treatment facility.

(49) through (51) renumbered (46) through (48) No change.

(49)(52) “Reuse” means the deliberate application of reclaimed water, in compliance with Department and District rules, for a beneficial purpose. Criteria used to classify projects as “reuse” or “effluent disposal” are contained in Rrule 62-610.810, F.A.C.

(50)(53) No change.

(51)(54) “Secondary treatment” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. wastewater treatment to a level that will achieve the effluent limitations specified in paragraph 62-600.420(1)(a), F.A.C.

(52)(55) “Secretary” means the same as defined in Section 403.803(12), F.S. Secretary of the Department.

(56) through (58) renumbred (53) through (55) No change.

(56)(59) “Subsurface application system” means a network of small diameter, porous or perforated pipes installed horizontally at depths generally less than 12 inches for the purpose of releasing reclaimed water at or near the root zone of the vegetated cover. The release of reclaimed water shall be below the ground surface. This type of application system shall be permitted under Ppart II, part III, or part IV of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., depending on the loading rates used, degree of public access, characteristics of the site, system design, and mode of operation.

(57)(60) No change.

(58)(61) “Surface water” means surface water as defined in Section 373.019(21), F.S. water upon the surface of the earth, whether contained in bounds created naturally or artificially or diffused. Water from natural springs shall be classified as surface water when it exits from the spring onto the eart’s surface.

(59) “Technology-based efflent limitation (TBEL)” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C.

(60)(62) “Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. sum of free ammonia and organic nitrogen compounds in water or wastewater and expressed as elemental nitrogen, N, as determined using approved methods.

(61)(63) “Total suspended solids (TSS)” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. solids that either float on the surface of, or are suspended in, water or wastewater; the quantity of material removed from a sample in a laboratory test referred to as nonfilterable residue, as determined using approved methods.

(62)(64) “Treatment” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. any method, technique, or process which changes the physical, chemical, or biological character or composition of wastewater and thereby reduces its potential for polluting waters of the state.

(63)(65) “Treatment plant” means the same as domestic wastewater treatment plant as defined in Section 403.866(2), F.S. any plant or other works used for the purpose of treating, stabilizing, or holding wastes.

(64)(66) No change.

(65)(67) “Type I facility” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. a wastewater facility having a design average daily flow of 500,000 gallons per day or greater.

(66)(68) “Type II facility” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. a wastewater facility having a design average daily flow of 100,000 up to but not including 500,000 gallons per day.

(67)(69) “Type III facility” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. a wastewater facility having a design average daily flow of over 2,000 up to but not including 100,000 gallons per day.

(68)(70) “Underground injection” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. effluent disposal by well injection into underground geologic formations.

(69)(71) “Unrestricted access” means that access to the reuse site by the general public is uncontrolled or that the site is frequently used by humans. An area having unrestricted access is a “public access area” as defined in subsection 62-610.200(42) 62-610.200(45), F.A.C.

(70) “Underground source of drinking water (USDW)” means the same as defined in Rule 62-528.200, F.A.C.

(71)(72) No change.

(72)(73) “Wastes” means the same as defined in Section 403.031(12), F.S. sewage, industrial wastes, and all other liquid, gaseous, solid, radioactive, or other substances which may pollute or tend to pollute any waters of the State.

(73)(74) “Wastewater” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. combination of liquid and water-carried pollutants from residences, commercial buildings, industrial plants, and institutions together with any ground water, surface runoff or leachate that may be present.

(74)(75) “Wastewater facilities” means the same as defined in Rule 62-620.200, F.A.C. any or all of the following: the collection/transmission system, the treatment plant, and the reuse or disposal system.

(75)(76) “Waters” means the sameshall be as defined in Ssection 403.031(13), F.S.

(76)(77) “Water quality-based effluent limitation (WQBEL)” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. an effluent limitation, which may be more stringent than a technology-based effluent limitation, that has been determined necessary by the Department to ensure that water quality standards in a receiving body of water will not be violated.

(77)(78) “Water quality standards” means the same as defined in Rule 62-600.200, F.A.C. standards comprised of designated most beneficial uses (classification of waters), the numerical and narrative criteria applied to the specific water use or classification, the Florida anti-degradation policy, and the moderating provisions contained in chapters 62-302 and 62-4, F.A.C.

(78)(79) “Water table” means the same as defined in Rule 62-520.200, F.A.C. upper surface of the zone of saturation where ground water pressures are equal to atmospheric pressure, except where that surface is formed by an impermeable stratum.

(79)(80) “Wellhead protection area” means the same as defined in Rule 62-521.200, F.A.C. an area designated by the Department in chapter 62-521, F.A.C., consisting of a 500-foot radial setback distance around a potable water well, as defined in rule 62-521.200, F.A.C., where ground water is provided the most stringent protection measures to protect the ground water source for a potable water well and includes the surface and subsurface area surrounding the well.

(80) “Zone of Discharge” means the same as defined in Rule 62-520.200, F.A.C.

62-610.300 General Technical Guidance, Related Rules, Technical Publications and Forms.

(1) The technical standards and criteria contained in the following standard manuals and technical publications listed below are hereby incorporated by reference and shall be applied, if applicable, in determining whether permits allowing construction, modification or implementation of reuse and land application projects shall be issued or denied. The following publications are referenced as technical guidance to assist utilities and engineers in planning, design, construction, and implementation of reuse and land application projects. Specific publications or portions of publications which contain enforceable criteria are specifically referenced elsewhere in this chapter. Information in the publications listed below does not supersede the specific requirements in this chapter.

(a) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1981. Land Treatment of Municipal Wastewater-Process Design Manual. EPA Center for Environmental Research Information, 26 West Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268.

(b) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1977. Wastewater Treatment Facilities for Sewered Small Municipalities-Process Design Manual. EPA Center for Environmental Research Information, 26 West Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268.

(e) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1980. Design Manual-Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems. EPA Center for Environmental Research Information, 26 West Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268.

(f) through (g) redesignated (c) through (d) No change.

(h) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1984. Land Treatment of Municipal Wastewater – Supplement on Rapid Infiltration and Overland Flow – Process Design Manual. EPA Center for Environmental Research Information, 26 West Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268.

(i) Water Pollution Control Federation, 1989. Manual of Practice SM-3. Water Reuse. W.P.C.F., 601 Wythe Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314-1994.

(j) Water Environment Federation and American Water Works Association, 1998. Using Reclaimed Water to Augment Potable Water Resources. W.E.F., 601 Wythe Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314-1994, or A.W.W.A., 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235.

(k) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Agency for International Development. 1992. Guidelines for Water Reuse. Report EPA/625/R-92/004. EPA Center for Environmental Research Information, 26 West Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268.

(l) redesignated (e) No change.

(m) National Research Council, 1998. Issues in Potable Reuse: The Viability of Augmenting Drinking Water Supplies With Reclaimed Water. National Academy Press, 2101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20418.

(n) Reuse Coordinating Committee and Water Conservation Initiative Water Reuse Workgroup, 2003. Water Reuse for Florida: Strategies for Effective Use of Reclaimed Water. Department of Environmental Protection, Domestic Wastewater Section, MS 3540, Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400 (www.dep.state.fl.us/water/reuse/).

(2) Members of the public may request and obtain copies of the publications listed in subsection 62-610.300(1), F.A.C., by contacting the appropriate publisher at the address indicated. Copies of the above publications are on file with the Florida Secretary of State and the Joint Administrative Procedures Committee. Copies are also on file and available for review in the Department’s Tallahassee offices and in the Department’s district and branch offices where they may be reviewed during normal business hours.

(2)(3) Related rules. The following Department rules may be applicable to reuse and land application projects, depending on the nature and scope of the project. This listing is provided solely for the purpose of noting other Department rules which the applicant may need to consult and comply with during the planning, design, construction, and operation of reuse or land application projects. This listing is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of every rule which may be applicable.

(a) Antidegradation policy requirements are contained in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

(b) Cross-connection control program requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-555, F.A.C.

(c) Disinfection criteria are contained in Rrule 62-600.440, F.A.C., which lists the design and performance standards for high-level, intermediate, basic, and low-level disinfection.

(d) Domestic wastewater facility requirements are contained in Cchapters 62-600, and 62-600, F.A.C., contains design, operation, and compliance requirements for all domestic wastewater facilities. Treatment levels, disinfection requirements, and pH requirements also are contained.

(e) Drinking water standards are contained in Cchapter 62-550, F.A.C.

(f) Fees related to permitting are listed in Cchapter 62-4, F.A.C.

(g) Ground water quality standards are contained in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C.

(h) Industrial pretreatment requirements (within Department rules these are referred to as “pretreatment requirements”) are contained in Cchapter 62-625, F.A.C.

(i) Monitoring requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C. Requirements for ground water monitoring plans are contained in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C.

(j) Operator certification requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-602 61E12-41, F.A.C.

(k) Operator staffing requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-699, F.A.C.

(l) Permitting requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C.

(m) pH requirements are contained in Rrule 62-600.445, F.A.C.

(n) Pretreatment requirements (sometimes referred to as “industrial pretreatment requirements”) are contained in Cchapter 62-625, F.A.C.

(o) BiosolidsResiduals (formerly referred to as “residuals” or “sludge”) management requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-640, F.A.C.

(p) Secondary treatment is defined in Rrule 62-600.420, F.A.C.

(q) Surface water discharge requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C.

(r) Surface water quality standards are contained in Cchapter 62-302, F.A.C.

(s) Underground injection control requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C. Additional information related to domestic wastewater facilities is contained in Cchapter 62-600, F.A.C.

(t) Wellhead protection requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-521, F.A.C.

(u) Wetlands discharge requirements are contained in Cchapter 62-611, F.A.C.

(3)(4) Forms.

(a) The forms and instructions used by the Department are listed in this rule below. The rule numbers are the same as the form numbers. The forms are incorporated by reference in this rule. Copies of these forms and instructions may be obtained by writing to the Wastewater Management Program Bureau of Water Facilities Regulation, Mail Station 3545 3535, Department of Environmental Protection, Bob Martinez Center, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400. In addition, these forms are available at the Department’s District Offices and from the. Forms are also available on the web site page for the Department’s Division of Water Resource Management at https://floridadep.gov/waterwww.dep.state.fl.us/water. The Department adopts and incorporates by reference in this section the following forms:

1. Notice of Intent to Use General Permit for Addition of a Major User of Reclaimed Water, DEP Form 62-610.300(3)(a)1., 62-610.300(4)(a)1., effective (effective date of the rule), http://www.flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-XXXXX.January 1, 1996.

2. Annual Reuse Report, DEP Form 62-610.300(3)(a)2., 62-610.300(4)(a)2., effective (effective date of the rule), http://www.flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-XXXXX.March 9, 2006.

3. Application for Permission to Place a Public Access Reuse System in Operation, DEP Form 62-610.300(3)(a)3., 62-610.300(4)(a)3., effective (effective date of the rule), http://www.flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-XXXXX.January 1, 1996.

4. Pathogen Monitoring, DEP Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4., 62-610.300(4)(a)4., effective (effective date of the rule), http://www.flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-XXXXX. March 9, 2006.

(b) Additional forms used for domestic wastewater and reuse facilities are included in Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C.

(c) Subsection 62-600.660(2) 62-601.300(4), F.A.C., requires domestic wastewater treatment facilities with a permitted capacity of 100,000 gpd or greater that discharge to ground waters via reuse and land application systems to annually monitor reclaimed water or effluent for the primary and secondary drinking water standards contained in Cchapter 62-550, F.A.C. Except for asbestos, total coliforms, color, odor and residual disinfectants, all parameters listed as primary and secondary drinking water standards in Chapter 62-550, F.A.C., shall be monitored and reported on the Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR), Form 62-620.910(10). The DMR forms shall be electronically submitted to the Department by June 28 using the DEP Business Portal at http://www.fldepportal.com/go/. color, and corrosivity, all parameters listed as primary and secondary drinking water standards in chapter 62-550, F.A.C., shall be monitored and reported on the DMR with submittal to the Department by June 28. Approved analytical methods identified in paragraph 62-620.100(3)(j), F.A.C., shall be used for analysis. If no method is included for a parameter, methods specified in Cchapter 62-550, F.A.C., shall be used.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.064 FS. Law Implemented 403.051, 403.061(7), (13), 403.064, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.300, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, 3-9-06, 11-19-07, . .

62-610.310 Engineering Report.

(1) In accordance with the requirements and provisions of Cchapters 62-600 and 62-620, F.A.C., an engineering report shall be submitted in support of permit applications for new or expanded reuse or land application projects. The engineering report will serve as the preliminary design report for reuse and land application projects. The requirement for an engineering report for modifications of existing systems and for those existing facilities which have had past violations of permit conditions or water quality standards shall be a case-by-case determination by the Department based on the frequency and severity of past violations, the potential for adverse effects on reclaimed water quality and on surface and ground water quality, and the scope of proposed modifications.

(2) No change.

(3) The engineering report shall include the following:

(a) Land Use Requirements.

1. The exact boundaries of the reuse or land application project, with setback distances shown, shall be located on the most recent USGS topographic maps (7.5 minutes series, where available). These maps, or similar scale maps, shall show present land uses and anticipated land uses for the next 10 years within one mile of the site boundaries, based on approved Local Government Comprehensive Land Use Plans where available. The Florida Land Use Cover and Forms Classification System (paragraph 62-610.300(1)(d)(g), F.A.C.), shall be utilized in designating the character of the surrounding area.

2. through 3. No change.

4. Surface waters classified pursuant to Cchapter 62-302, F.A.C., within one mile of the project area, shall be located on the maps and shall be described, with respect to their classification, uses, and approximate distance from the site.

(b) No change.

1. Hydrogeologic data necessary to evaluate the capability of the proposed project to perform successfully at the site on a long-term basis shall be provided. A proposed ground water monitoring plan, if applicable, meeting the requirements of Cchapters 62-520 62-522 and 62-600 62-601, F.A.C., shall be provided. This information shall include, but not be limited to, geophysical information concerning known “solution openings” and sinkhole features within one mile of the site; the identification (with applicable geologic sections), extent or continuity, and hydrologic characterization of aquifers and confining zones underlying the site (i.e., horizontal and vertical hydraulic conductivities, porosity, thickness); head relationships between aquifer systems; and information on the annual range of ground water elevations at the proposed site.

2. through 8. No change.

9. For aquifer storage and recovery projects regulated under Rrule 62-610.466, F.A.C., and ground water recharge projects involving injection to G-II ground water, the engineering report shall characterize the total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration in ground water contained in the aquifer at the point of injection. See subsection 62-610.800(11), F.A.C. For aquifer storage and recovery projects, this shall include characterization of TDS concentrations within the proposed extended zone of discharge, as described in subsection 62-610.466(14), F.A.C. For injection projects having a zone of discharge, as described in subsection 62-610.560(3) and Rrule 62-610.562, F.A.C., the engineering report shall include characterization of TDS concentrations at the point of injection and within the zone of discharge. The methods used to make the TDS characterization shall be described.

(d) Land Management System.

1. The present and intended soil-vegetation management program shall be discussed and the vegetative covers identified. Reclaimed water or effluents to be applied shall be characterized in terms of their physical, chemical, and biological properties. Data and other documentation to verify the uptake of nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus), moisture and salt tolerances, pollutant toxicity levels, yield of crops and similar information shall be provided. For projects permitted under Pparts II, III, IV, V, and VI of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., detailed water and nutrient budgets (balances) for the projects shall be included in the engineering report.

2. through 5. No change.

(e) Project Evaluation.

1. No change.

2. For projects that will have a limited wet weather discharge, the data required by Rrule 62-610.860, F.A.C., shall be included.

3. Justification and documentation for using setback distances, selection of hydraulic loading rates, loading and resting cycles, determining that the reclaimed water or effluents will not violate the standards set by Cchapters 62-600 and 62-610, F.A.C., and use of any design criteria for which flexibility is provided in this rule also shall be provided.

4. For projects regulated by Pparts III or V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., or by Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C., an evaluation of the pretreatment program required by Rrule 62-610.330, F.A.C., shall be provided.

5. through 9. No change.

10. For projects regulated by Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., a description of public notification activities required by subsections 62-610.468(2) and (6), F.A.C., shall be provided.

(f) The requirements of each section within the appropriate part of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall be addressed in the engineering report or abbreviated engineering report. (For example, a project to be permitted as a rapid-rate land application system shall have the requirements of all sections in Ppart IV of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., addressed in the engineering report.)

(g) No change.

(h) Engineering report requirements specific to projects permitted under Pparts V and VII of this chapter are contained in subsections 62-610.310(4) and (5), F.A.C., respectively.

(i) Engineering report requirements specific to aquifer storage and recovery projects are contained in Rrule 62-610.466, F.A.C. Requirements for notification of public water supply authorities are described in subsection 62-610.466(16), F.A.C.

(j) Engineering report requirements specific to blending of concentrate with reclaimed water are contained in Rrule 62-610.865, F.A.C.

(4) The engineering report for projects involving ground water recharge and indirect potable reuse regulated under Part V of this chapter shall address the following:

(a) The full engineering report requirements of Rrule 62-610.310, F.A.C., shall apply.

(b) In addition, the engineering report shall address the following:

1. through 3. No change.

4. The minimum treatment and disinfection requirements imposed by Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., for the proposed uses shall be presented.

5. through 8. No change.

(5) The engineering report for projects involving industrial uses of reclaimed water permitted under Ppart VII of this chapter shall address the following:

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) The minimum treatment and disinfection requirements imposed by Ppart VII of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., for the industrial uses shall be presented.

(d) Any additional treatment and disinfection requirements beyond the minimum requirements imposed by Ppart VII which have been agreed to by the domestic wastewater permittee and the industry shall be described.

(e) through (f) No change.

(g) Each requirement in each section of Ppart VII in this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall be discussed.

(h) Unless noted otherwise in this rule, the full requirements of Rrule 62-610.310, F.A.C., shall not be applied. The best available information shall be presented to meet the requirements of paragraphs 62-610.310(3)(a), 62-610.310(3)(e) and 62-610.310(3)(g), F.A.C.

(i) No change.

(j) If the industrial uses will be accomplished as part of a reclaimed water system permitted under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., an abbreviated engineering report meeting the requirements of Rrule 62-610.310, F.A.C., shall be prepared for the overall Ppart III project.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.0877, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.310, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, .

62-610.320 Operation and Maintenance Requirements and Operating Protocols.

(1) Land application systems shall be operated and maintained to achieve applicable waste treatment requirements, before final release of reclaimed water or effluent to the environment, as required in this chapter. rule 62-600.530, F.A.C.

(a) Where all land used as part of the treatment/reuse/disposal system is under the direct control of the permittee for the useful life of the facilities, an operator shall perform the duties for which he is certified under Cchapter 62-602 61E12-41, F.A.C. The permittee shall maintain control over, and be responsible for, all activities inherent to all reuse and land application systems (e.g., crop removal) to ensure that the entire reuse or waste treatment system operates as approved by the Department.

(b) Where the wastewater treatment plant permittee reuses reclaimed water or disposes of effluent using property owned by another party, a binding agreement between the involved parties is required to ensure that construction, operation, maintenance, and monitoring meet the requirements of Cchapters 62-600, 62-620 and 62-610, F.A.C. Such binding agreements are required for all reuse or disposal sites not owned by the permittee. The permittee shall retain primary responsibility for ensuring compliance with all requirements of the Florida Administrative Code.

(2) No change.

(3) Ground water sampling parameters, schedules, and reporting requirements (where necessary) shall be established pursuant to the provisions of Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C. For each report on ground water quality the permittee shall verify to the Department (based on ground water elevations) the direction(s) of ground water movement from the land application site. In accordance with Rrule 62-520.600 62-522.600, F.A.C., other information requirements shall be imposed on any facility whenever there is a change in the permitted volume, location, or composition of the discharge.

(4) No change.

(5) Operation and Maintenance Manual.

(a) An operation and maintenance manual or an addition to the treatment plant operation and maintenance manual or stand-alone instructional booklet, as appropriate, shall be published for all reuse or land application systems, in accordance with Rrules 62-600.720 and 62-620.630, F.A.C.

(b) In addition to the requirements specified in Cchapters 62-600 62-620 and 62-620 62-600, F.A.C., the reuse/land application system operation and maintenance instructions shall provide the operator with an adequate description and schedule of routine reclaimed water or effluent application rates and cycles involved with the system; operation procedures (including any notification and reporting requirements of appropriate agencies) during adverse climatic conditions and maintenance of equipment; schedules for harvesting and crop removal; routine maintenance required for the continued design performance of the system; ground water monitoring procedures and schedules; listings of spare parts to have on hand; and any other information essential to the operation of the system in accordance with the requirements of this chapter. rule.

(6) Operating Protocols.

(a) No change.

(b) Operating protocols are required for the following types of projects:

1. Projects regulated under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. See Rrule 62-610.463, F.A.C.

2. Projects involving blending of concentrate with reclaimed water. See Rrule 62-610.865, F.A.C. For blending projects regulated under Ppart III of this chapter, two operating protocols are required (one governing compliance with high-level disinfection requirements and a second governing the blending operation). In cases where two operating protocols are required, at the permittee’s discretion, the two operating protocols may be combined into a single document.

3. Projects regulated under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. See Rrule 62-610.568, F.A.C.

(g) Subsections 62-610.463(2) and 62-610.568(3), F.A.C., require continuous monitoring of turbidity for use in operating protocols as a means of controlling operation of treatment facilities to ensure that only acceptable quality reclaimed water is released to the reuse system or to system storage. In these cases, the Department shall allow use of other types of continuous monitoring equipment, if all of the following conditions are met:

1. through 3. No change.

4. The proposed monitoring equipment shall be calibrated according to the requirements of Cchapters 62-160 and 62-600 62-601, F.A.C.

5. through 6. No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061(7), 403.062, 403.064, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.320, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, 3-9-06, .

62-610.330 Pretreatment Programs.

(1) A pretreatment program shall be developed and implemented, in accordance with Cchapter 62-625, F.A.C., for reuse projects regulated under Pparts III or V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., or under Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C., if the wastewater facility receives discharges from significant industrial users, as defined in Rrule 62-625.200, F.A.C. Pretreatment program requirements apply only to public utilities, as defined in Rrule 62-625.200, F.A.C.

(2) A pretreatment program shall not be required for Part III or V reuse projects, if the applicant indicates on Department Form 62-620.910(2) that the wastewater facility has no significant industrial users, as defined in Rrule 62-625.200, F.A.C., and that no significant industrial users are anticipated during the next five-year permit period. To continue the pretreatment program exemption, subsequent permit renewal applications must demonstrate that the wastewater facility continues to have no significant industrial users and none are anticipated during the next five-year permit period.

(3) Within 60 days of learning of the intent of a significant industrial user, as defined in Rrule 62-625.200, F.A.C., to discharge to a wastewater facility permitted under Pparts III or V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., the permittee shall provide written notification of the proposed discharge to the Department. Upon concurrence by the Department that the proposed discharger meets the definition of significant industrial user, the Department shall include conditions for development and implementation of a pretreatment program in the permit in accordance with Rrule 62-625.500, F.A.C. The permit revision shall be deemed a minor revision subject to the procedure in Rrule 62-620.330, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.330, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, .

PART II SLOW-RATE LAND APPLICATION SYSTEMS; RESTRICTED PUBLIC ACCESS

62-610.412 Monitoring of Reclaimed Water and Ground Water.

(1) No change.

(2) Ground water monitoring.

(a) A ground water monitoring program shall be established by the permittee and approved by the Department, pursuant to Cchapter 62-600 62-601, and Rrule 62-520.600 62-522.600, F.A.C., (unless otherwise exempted).

(b) The manual referenced in paragraph 62-610.300(1)(b) 62-610.300(1)(d), F.A.C., contains general technical guidance regarding the design and construction of monitoring wells and ground water sampling procedures. Ground water test wells resulting from hydrogeologic exploratory programs, background water quality determinations or other requirements shall be approved by the Department for use as part of the compliance monitoring well system if the permittee provides reasonable assurances in the engineering report and ground water monitoring plan that the well meets the requirements of Rrule 62-520.600 62-522.600, F.A.C., and that the well construction is such that migration of fluids from the surface to subsurface formations or between subsurface formations will not occur.

(c) Ground water sampling parameters for monitoring background and receiving water quality will be established by the Department based upon the quality of reclaimed water to be discharged, site specific soil and hydrogeologic characteristics, and other considerations, in accordance with Cchapter 62-600 62-601, and Rrule 62-520.600 62-522.600, F.A.C. Water levels shall be recorded before evacuating wells for sample collection. Elevation references shall include the top of the well casing and land surface at each well site (NGVD allowable) at a precision of plus or minus 0.010.1 foot.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Formerly 17-610.412, Amended 1-9-96, .

62-610.414 Storage Requirements.

(1) System storage ponds as described herein shall not be required where it is documented in the engineering report that an alternative system (e.g., permitted surface water discharge, deep wells) is incorporated into the system design to ensure continuous facility operation in accordance with the requirements of Cchapter 62-600, F.A.C. If system storage is not required, provision of flow equalization or storage shall be evaluated in the engineering report to ensure that reclaimed water flows will match the demand pattern during a diurnal cycle.

(2) through (4) No change.

(5) System storage ponds may be unlined if designed to provide both storage and percolation functions. When designed for percolation such ponds are subject to the provisions of Ppart IV of this chapter rule. System storage ponds may be unlined if high-level disinfection is provided.

(6) through (9) No change.

62-610.417 Surface Runoff Control and Subsurface Drainage.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) If a subsurface drain system is necessary to prevent the water table from rising into the plant root zone, the system shall be designed in accordance with appropriate portions of paragraph 62-610.300(1)(c) 62-610.300(1)(f), F.A.C., concerning Natural Resources Conservation Service criteria for subsurface drains. The drainage system shall be designed so that the water table is drawn down generally to provide for 36 inches of unsaturated soil thickness during the time when irrigation is not practiced; unsaturated thicknesses less than this value shall be approved only when justified in the engineering report on the basis of renovating and agronomic aspects of the soil-plant system. The requirements of subsection 62-610.850(1), F.A.C., shall apply to discharges to surface waters from the drainage system.

62-610.418 Access Control and Advisory Signs.

(1) No change.

(2) The permittee may allow public access to the land application site if a subsurface application system is used. Subsurface application systems may be used to irrigate residential properties, if the requirements of Ppart II of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., are met.

62-610.419 Application/Distribution Systems and Cross-Connection Control.

(1) No change.

(2) Subsurface application systems may be used if the reclaimed water is made available to the plant root zone and the hydraulic loading rates and cycles comply with Rrule 62-610.423, F.A.C.

(3) No cross-connections to potable water systems shall be allowed. For systems permitted under subsection 62-610.418(2), F.A.C., the permittee shall develop and obtain Department acceptance for a cross-connection control and inspection program as discussed in Rrules 62-610.469 and 62-555.360, F.A.C.

(4) For all systems, there shall be readily identifiable “non-potable” notices, marking, or coding on application/distribution facilities and appurtenance.

62-610.421 Setback Distances.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) A 500-foot setback distance shall be provided from the edge of the wetted area to potable water supply wells that are existing or have been approved by the Department or by the Department of Health (but not yet constructed); Class I surface waters; or Class II surface waters. This distance shall be reduced to 200 feet if facility Class I reliability is provided in accordance with subsection 62-610.462(1), F.A.C. This distance shall be reduced to 100 feet if facility Class I reliability is provided in accordance with subsection 62-610.462(1), F.A.C., and if high-level disinfection is provided. Reductions in the 500-foot setback distance to potable water wells, as described in Rrule 62-521.200, F.A.C., shall not be allowed. Setback distance requirements apply to all Class II waters, regardless of Department classification (such as open, closed, approved, conditionally approved, restricted, conditionally restricted, prohibited, or unclassified).

(4) through (12) No change.

PART III SLOW-RATE LAND APPLICATION SYSTEMS; PUBLIC ACCESS AREAS,

RESIDENTIAL IRRIGATION, AND EDIBLE CROPS

62-610.450 Description of System.

(1) No change.

(2) Public access also may be provided to sites irrigated using subsurface application systems as described and regulated by Ppart II of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. Subsurface application projects regulated by Part II are not subject to the requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

62-610.451 Minimum System Size.

(1) Except as provided in subsection 62-610.451(2), F.A.C., no treatment facility with a design average daily flow of less than 0.1 mgd shall have the produced reclaimed water made available for reuse activities covered by Ppart III (Rrules 62-610.450 through 62-610.491, F.A.C.,) of this chapter.

(2) through (3) No change.

62-610.460 Waste Treatment and Disinfection.

(1) Preapplication waste treatment shall result in a reclaimed water that meets, at a minimum, secondary treatment and high-level disinfection. The reclaimed water shall not contain more than 5.0 milligrams per liter (mg/L) of suspended solids before the application of the disinfectant.

(2) An operating protocol as described in Rrules 62-610.320 and 62-610.463, F.A.C., shall be developed and implemented.

(3) Filtration shall be provided for TSS control. Chemical feed facilities for coagulant, coagulant aids, or polyelectrolytes shall be provided. Such chemical feed facilities may be idle if the TSS limitation is being achieved without chemical addition. Filtration is an important component of a wastewater treatment facility that provides reclaimed water for the types of activities allowed by Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. By removing TSS before disinfection, filtration serves to increase the ability of the disinfection process to inactivate virus and other pathogens. Filtration also serves as the primary barrier for removal of protozoan pathogens (Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and others). Addition of chemical coagulants generally increases the effectiveness of pathogen removal.

(4) A pretreatment program shall be prepared and implemented in accordance with Rrule 62-610.330, F.A.C.

62-610.462 Reliability and Operator Staffing.

(1) The following reliability requirements shall apply. Facility reliability shall have a minimum Class I reliability as described in paragraph 62-610.300(1)(a) 62-610.300(1)(c), F.A.C. The Department shall approve alternative levels of treatment facility reliability if the permittee provides reasonable assurances in the engineering report that the facility will provide a level of reliability equivalent to Class I reliability. Class I reliability shall not be required if a permitted alternate treatment or discharge system exists which has sufficient capacity to handle any reclaimed water flows which do not meet the performance criteria established in the operating protocol.

(a) Multiple aeration basins shall not be required for an oxidation ditch facility to comply with Class I reliability requirements, if the following conditions are met:

1. The construction permit application was approved by the Department on or before April 5, 1989,

2. through 3. No change.

(2) Except as provided in subsection 62-610.462(3) and (4), F.A.C., the wastewater treatment facility shall be staffed by a Class C or higher operator 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. The lead/chief operator shall be at minimum Class B, or higher if required by Cchapter 62-699, F.A.C.

(3) The minimum staffing requirement at the wastewater treatment facility shall be reduced to staffing by a Class C or higher operator 6 hours per day, 7 days per week, unless Cchapter 62-699, F.A.C., requires additional operator presence or a higher level of operator. The lead/chief operator shall be at minimum Class C, or higher if required by Cchapter 62-699, F.A.C. This minimum staffing requirement shall be allowed only in conjunction with at least one of the following.

(a) through (b) No change.

(4) If the facility does not send reclaimed water to the public access reuse system on one or both weekend days, the 7 day per week staffing requirement in subsection 62-610.462(3), F.A.C., shall be reduced to 6 hours per day on each day reclaimed water is sent to the public access reuse system. On weekend days when reclaimed water is diverted to an alternative reuse or disposal system, a daily visit shall be required.

62-610.463 Monitoring and Operating Protocol.

(1) No change.

(2) The treatment facility shall include continuous on-line monitoring for turbidity before application of the disinfectant. Continuous on-line monitoring of total residual chlorine residual or for residual concentrations of other disinfectants, if used, shall be provided at the compliance monitoring point. Instruments for continuous on-line monitoring of turbidity and disinfectant residuals shall be equipped with an automated data logging or recording device. Continuous on-line monitoring instruments shall be calibrated according to the requirements of Cchapters 62-160 and 62-600 62-601, F.A.C. Continuous on-line monitoring instruments shall be maintained according to the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance instructions. In accordance with Rrule 62-610.320, F.A.C., the permittee shall develop, and the Department shall approve, an operating protocol designed to ensure that the high-level disinfection criteria will be met before the reclaimed water is released to the system storage or to the reclaimed water reuse system. The operating protocol shall be reviewed and updated as required in Rrule 62-610.320, F.A.C. Reclaimed water produced at the treatment facility that fails to meet the criteria established in the operating protocol shall not be discharged into system storage or to the reuse system. Such substandard reclaimed water (reject water) shall be either stored for subsequent additional treatment or shall be discharged to another permitted reuse system requiring lower levels of preapplication treatment or to a permitted effluent disposal system.

(3) Ground water monitoring.

(a) Monitoring of ground water requirements shall be as contained in Cchapters 62-520 62-601 and 62-600 62-522, F.A.C.

(b) No change.

(4) Monitoring for Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

(a) For treatment plants having capacities of 1.0 mgd or larger, the permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia as follows:

1. Sampling shall be conducted at one time during each two-year period. Intervals between sampling shall not be greater than two years. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before November 28 of each even numbered year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

2. No change.

(b) For treatment plants having capacities less than 1.0 mgd, the permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia as follows:

1. Sampling shall be conducted at one time during each five-year period. Intervals between sampling shall not be greater than five years. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before November 28 of that year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

2. No change.

(d) If the wastewater treatment facility uses chlorination for disinfection, samples collected for analysis of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be dechlorinated.

(e) A grab sample for TSS shall be taken such that it is representative of the water leaving the filters at the treatment facility during the period when pathogen samples are being obtained. This TSS sample shall be taken during the period when pathogen samples are collected. In addition, the permittee shall record the lowest total residual chlorine observed during the period when pathogen samples are collected.

(f) EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods for reclaimed water or nonpotable waters, adjusted appropriately to accommodate the detection limit requirements, shall be used. Methods previously allowed for EPA’s Information Collection Rule (ICR) shall not be used. The full requirements of the approved method, including quality assurance and quality control, are to be met. Quality assurance and sampling requirements of Chapter 62-160, F.A.C., shall apply.

Two concentrations of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be recorded on Part III of Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

1. Total cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using EPA Method 1623 or other appoved methods.

2. Potentially viable cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using the DAPI staining technique contained in EPA Method 1623 or similar enumeration techniques included in other approved methods. Cysts and oocysts that are stained DAPI positive or show internal structure by D.I.C. shall be considered as being potentially viable. If the laboratory reports separate values for DAPI positive and for cysts or oocysts having internal structure, the larger of the two concentrations will be reported as being potentially viable.

(g) If the number of potentially viable cysts of Giardia reported exceeds 5 per 100 liters or oocysts of Cryptosporidium reported exceeds 22 per 100 liters, a subsequent sample shall be taken and analyzed using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods. This subsequent sample shall be collected within 90 days of the date the initial sample was taken, analyzed for both Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and the results of the subsequent analysis shall be submitted to the Department within 60 days of sample collection using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)(4).

62-610.464 Storage Requirements.

(1) System storage shall not be required where another permitted reuse system or effluent disposal system is incorporated into the system design to ensure continuous facility operation in accordance with the requirements of Cchapter 62-600, F.A.C. If system storage is not required, provision of flow equalization or storage should be evaluated in the engineering report to ensure that reclaimed water flows will match the demand pattern during a diurnal cycle.

(2) Unless exempted by subsection 62-610.464(1), F.A.C., system storage ponds shall have capacities determined as follows.

(a) Requirements for system storage pond capacity shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.414, F.A.C., for restricted access slow-rate land application systems. System storage or a limited wet weather discharge authorization shall be required for wet weather conditions. At a minimum, system storage capacity shall be the volume equal to three times that portion of the average daily flow of the total reuse capacity for which no alternative reuse or disposal system is permitted.

(3) In addition, a separate, off-line system for storage of reject water shall be provided, unless another permitted reuse system or effluent disposal system is capable of discharging the reject water in accordance with requirements of Cchapter 62-600, F.A.C. Reject water storage shall have sufficient capacity to ensure the retention of reclaimed water of unacceptable quality. At a minimum, this capacity shall be the volume equal to one day flow at the average daily design flow of the treatment plant or the average daily permitted flow of the reuse system, whichever is less. Provisions for recirculating this reject water to other parts of the treatment plant for further treatment shall be incorporated into the design.

(4) Requirements for system storage and reject water holding ponds shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.414, F.A.C., except for the following:

(a) through (c) No change.

(5) The permittee shall maintain an inventory of storage systems. The inventory shall be submitted to the Department at least 30 days before reclaimed water will be introduced into any new storage systems. The inventory shall be submitted annually to the Department with the annual reuse report required by subsection 62-610.870(3), F.A.C. The inventory shall include the following:

(a) through (f) No change.

62-610.466 Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR).

(1) No change.

(2) ASR Aquifer storage and recovery can be an effective and environmentally sound approach to provision of storage for reclaimed water for reuse systems regulated under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. ASR Aquifer storage and recovery by itself does not constitute “reuse.” It is only when reclaimed water, which has been stored in an aquifer, is recovered and used for beneficial purposes that the reclaimed water is considered to be “reused.” ASR Aquifer storage and recovery systems are considered components of the overall reuse system.

(3) ASR Aquifer storage and recovery systems shall meet the technical and permitting requirements of the Department’s underground injection control program which are contained in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C., and shall obtain an underground injection control construction and operation permit, as appropriate, in addition to any permits required under Cchapters 62-610 and 62-620, F.A.C.

(4) In the engineering report submitted with the initial application to implement an ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system, the applicant shall provide an evaluation of the anticipated changes in the characteristics of the reclaimed water during the injection, storage, and recovery phases. In the engineering report, the applicant shall evaluate the need for additional treatment or disinfection upon recovery before introduction of the recovered water into system storage or the reuse system. The engineering report shall include an initial characterization of the ground water at the point of injection. The ground water characterization shall include analyses for all parameters for which ground water quality standards have been established in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C., and for fecal coliforms. The characterization of TDS at the point of injection is discussed in subparagraph 62-610.310(3)(c)9. and subsection 62-610.800(11), F.A.C.

(5) The water recovered from the aquifer storage and recovery system shall meet the performance standards for fecal coliforms as specified for high-level disinfection before use in a reuse system regulated under Ppart III of this chapter.

(6) No change.

(7) Use of Class G-IV ground water.

(a) Wells may be used to inject reclaimed water into Class G-IV ground water for ASR Aquifer storage and recovery if all of the following conditions in either subparagraph 1. or 2. are met:

1. Wells may be used to inject reclaimed water into Class G-IV ground water for ASR Aquifer storage and recovery if all of the following conditions are met:

a. The reclaimed water meets all the preapplication treatment and disinfection criteria established in Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., before injection.

b. Technical and permitting requirements in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C., are met.

2. Wells may be used to inject effluent into Class G-IV ground water for ASR Aquifer storage and recovery if all of the following conditions are met:

a. No change.

b. Technical and permitting requirements in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C., are met.

c. The treatment and disinfection requirements in Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall be met upon recovery of the water. Treatment and disinfection upon recovery shall include filtration and chemical feed facilities, as described in Rrule 62-610.460, F.A.C., high-level disinfection, Class I reliability, operator attendance and staffing, operating protocol, reject storage, and monitoring requirements.

(8) Use of Class G-I or F-I ground water.

(a) Wells may be used to inject reclaimed water into Class G-I or F-I ground water for ASR Aquifer storage and recovery if all of the following requirements are met:

1. The reclaimed water meets the full treatment and disinfection criteria established in Rrule 62-610.563, F.A.C., for ground water recharge projects.

2. Technical and permitting requirements in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C., are met.

(b) No change.

(9) Use of Class G-II ground water containing 3000 mg/L or less of total dissolved solids.

(a) Wells may be used to inject reclaimed water into Class G-II ground water containing 3000 mg/L or less of total dissolved solids for ASR Aquifer storage and recovery if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The reclaimed water meets the full treatment and disinfection criteria established in Rrule 62-610.563, F.A.C., for ground water recharge projects.

2. Technical and permitting requirements in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C., are met.

(b) If the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration that the receiving ground water contains between 1,000 and 3,000 mg/L (inclusive) of total dissolved solids, is not currently used as a source of public water supply, and that the receiving ground water is not reasonably expected to be used for public water supply in the future, the preapplication treatment and disinfection requirements shall be as follows:

1. The principal treatment and disinfection requirements in Rrule 62-610.563, F.A.C., shall apply, with the following modifications:

a. No change.

b. The secondary drinking water standards shall not be applied as reclaimed water limitations. As described in paragraph 62-610.466(14)(a), F.A.C., the ground water standard for sodium shall be met at the edge of the zone of discharge. As described in paragraph 62-610.466(14)(f), F.A.C., the ground water standard for sodium and the ground water standards corresponding to the secondary drinking water standards shall be met at the edge of the extended zone of discharge.

c. No change.

d. The extended zone of discharge shall not extend into zones having TDS concentrations less than 1000 mg/L (based on the initial TDS characterization in the engineering report and subsequent information).

(10) Use of Class G-II ground water containing greater than 3000 mg/L of total dissolved solids.

(a) Wells may be used to inject reclaimed water into Class G-II ground water containing greater than 3000 mg/L of total dissolved solids for ASRaquifer storage and recovery if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The principal treatment and disinfection requirements in Rrule 62-610.563, F.A.C., shall apply, with the following modifications:

a. through c. No change.

d. The extended zone of discharge shall not extend into zones having TDS concentrations less than 3000 mg/L (based on the initial TDS characterization in the engineering report and subsequent information).

2. Technical and permitting requirements in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C., are met.

(b) No change.

(11) If an aquifer exemption pursuant to subsection 62-528.300(3), F.A.C., or a parameter exemption pursuant to Rrule 62-520.500, F.A.C., has been obtained, the Department shall modify the discharge limitations in the permit to reflect the terms of the exemption.

(12) Monitoring.

(a) Reclaimed water shall be monitored before injection in accordance with the requirements of Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C.

(b) Water recovered from the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system.

1. Except as provided in subparagraphs 62-610.466(12)(b)2. and 3., F.A.C., the reclaimed water recovered from the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system shall be monitored for TSS, and fecal coliforms at the same frequency specified in Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C., for the treatment facility providing reclaimed water to the reuse system. CBOD5 shall be monitored monthly. If the reclaimed water withdrawn from an ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system fails to meet the CBOD5, TSS, or fecal coliform limits established for a reuse project regulated under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., the Department shall require that additional treatment or disinfection facilities be provided to ensure compliance with these limits. If the CBOD5 limits are not met, the Department shall increase the sampling frequency for CBOD5 to the level required in Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C.

2. If the reclaimed water injected into the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system meets the full treatment and disinfection requirements in Rrule 62-610.563, F.A.C., fecal coliforms shall be monitored monthly in the water recovered from the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system.

3. If additional treatment or disinfection is provided after recovery of the water from the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system, the monitoring requirements in Rrule 62-610.463, F.A.C., shall apply and an operating protocol shall be implemented pursuant to Rrule 62-610.463, F.A.C.

1. A ground water monitoring plan pursuant to Rrule 62-520.600 62-522.600, F.A.C., shall be implemented before placing the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system into operation. The monitoring plan shall be designed to verify compliance with the ground water standards and to monitor the performance of the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system. As part of this monitoring plan, the permittee shall monitor a measure of inorganics concentration (such as chloride or TDS) and specific conductance for the water being injected, ground water, and the recovered water.

2. No change.

(d) No change.

(13) No change.

(14) Extended zone of discharge.

(a) Projects described in paragraph 62-610.466(9)(b), and subsection (10), F.A.C., may shall have an extended zone of discharge included in the permit. The extended zone of discharge shall only apply to parameters listed as secondary drinking water standards in Chapter 62-550, F.A.C. and for sodium. Zones of discharge will not be provided for parameters listed as primary drinking water standards in Chapter 62-550, F.A.C. (except for sodium).

(b) A zone of discharge under this rule shall not be allowed for projects featuring injection that causes or allows movement of fluid into or between underground sources of drinking water which may adversly affect the health of persons. Except as provided in paragraph 62-610.466(14)(a), F.A.C., zones of discharge will not be allowed for projects featuring injection into other Class G-II ground waters or into Class G-I, F-I, or G-IV ground waters.

(c) An The extended zone of discharge will extend radially to the permittee’s property line. This may be greater than the 100 feet normally allowed for a zone of discharge in Rrule 62-520.465 62-522.410, F.A.C. The applicant may request an extended zone of discharge that extends beyond the property boundary, if the conditions and procedures in paragraphs 62-520.470(3)(d) and (e) 62-522.500(3)(d), and (e), F.A.C., are met. The applicant may request an extended zone of discharge beyond the property line at the time of initial permit application or with subsequent permit renewals or permit modifications.

(d) No change.

(e) The extended zone of discharge shall extend vertically from the base to the top of a specifically designated aquifer, aquifers, or portion of an aquifer. The vertical and lateral limits of the extended zone of discharge shall be designated. Injection and recovery wells used in the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system shall be included within the extended zone of discharge. As noted in sub-subparagraphs 62-610.466(9)(b)1.d., and 62-610.466(10)(a)1.d., F.A.C., the extended zone of discharge shall not extend into zones having TDS concentrations less than the specified threshold (based on the initial TDS characterization in the engineering report and subsequent information).

(f) No change.

(15) No change.

(16) Applicants proposing ASR Aquifer storage and recovery systems using Class F-I, G-I, or G-II ground water shall comply with the public and utility notification requirements contained in Rrule 62-610.574, F.A.C.

(17) The permittee shall assess the performance of the ASR Aquifer storage and recovery system on a monthly basis.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) Nothing in subsection 62-610.466(17), F.A.C., shall preclude the Department from taking enforcement action to compel compliance with the requirements of Rule 62-610.466, F.A.C., the requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., or the ground water standards contained in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 8-8-99, .

62-610.469 Application/Distribution Systems and Cross-Connection Control.

(1) through (4) No change.

(5) Reclaimed water may be used to irrigate landscaped areas with a tank truck only if the following requirements are met:

(a) All applicable requirements in Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., are met;

(b) No change.

(c) The truck used to transport and distribute reclaimed water is not used to transport waters or other fluids that do not meet, at a minimum, the requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., unless the tank has been evacuated and properly cleaned prior to the addition of the reclaimed water.

(6) No change.

(7) Cross-connection control.

(a) No cross-connections to potable water systems shall be allowed. The permittee shall submit documentation of Department acceptance for a cross-connection control and inspection program, pursuant to Rrule 62-555.360, F.A.C., for all public water supply systems located within the area to be served by reclaimed water.

(b) Reclaimed water shall not enter a dwelling unit or a building containing a dwelling unit except as allowed by Rrules 62-610.476 and paragraph 62-610.480(2)(i) 62-610.479, F.A.C.

(d) The provisions of Cchapter 62-604, F.A.C., are applicable to in-ground crossings. No vertical or horizontal separation distances are required for above-ground crossings.

(e) through (h) No change.

62-610.471 Setback Distances.

(1) through (10) No change.

(11) For ASR Aquifer storage and recovery projects regulated under Rrule 62-610.466, F.A.C., setback distance requirements for injection and recovery wells and for extended zones of discharge are contained in subsections 62-610.466(13) and (14), F.A.C.

62-610.472 Supplemental Water Supplies.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Surface water and stormwater supplies.

(a) Surface water supplies may be used to supplement the reclaimed water supply, if all of the following conditions are met:

1. through 2. No change.

3. A one-way flow device shall be provided on each surface water or stormwater supply line to prevent backflow of reclaimed water into the surface water or into the stormwater treatment facilities. This does not have to be an approved device as listed in Rrule 62-555.360, F.A.C. A check valve, flap valve, or other device may be used.

4. Continuous monitoring for disinfectant residual shall be performed on the disinfected surface water or stormwater supply at a point before mixing with the reclaimed water. Fecal coliforms and TSS shall be monitored at this point in accordance with the schedule established in Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C., for high-level disinfection facilities, based on the permitted capacity of the largest domestic wastewater treatment facility providing reclaimed water to the reuse system.

5. No change.

(b) Subparagraphs 62-610.472(3)(a)1. through 5., F.A.C., shall apply to situations involving the introduction of stormwater or surface water directly into a reclaimed water distribution system. Cases involving storage of reclaimed water in lakes and ponds which are part of a stormwater management system are described in, and regulated by, Rrules 62-610.464 and 62-610.830, F.A.C., and are not subject to Rrule 62-610.472, F.A.C., shall not apply to system storage and reclaimed water distribution facilities that are on the property of and are operated by the user of reclaimed water (such as a golf course or farm).

(c) Stormwater may be introduced into the sanitary sewerage system to augment the supply of reclaimed water, if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The resulting mixture of stormwater and domestic wastewater receives the full level of treatment and disinfection required by Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

2. through 3. No change.

(d) Monitoring for Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

1. For treatment plants having capacities of 1.0 mgd or larger, the permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia as follows:

a. Sampling shall be conducted at one time during each two-year period. Intervals between sampling shall not be greater than two years. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before November 28 of each even numbered year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

b. No change.

2. For treatment plants having capacities less than 1.0 mgd, the permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia as follows:

a. Sampling shall be conducted at one time during each five-year period. Intervals between sampling shall not be greater than five years. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before November 28 of that year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

b. No change

3. Samples shall be taken during peak flow periods between the months of August and October.

4. If the wastewater treatment facility uses chlorination for disinfection, samples collected for analysis of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be dechlorinated.

5. A grab sample of TSS that is representative of the surface water or treated stormwater as it is added to the reclaimed water system shall be taken during the period when pathogen samples are collected. In addition, record the lowest total residual chlorine observed during the period when pathogen samples are collected.

6. EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods for reclaimed water or nonpotable waters, adjusted appropriately to accommodate the detection limit requirements, shall be used. Methods previously allowed for EPA’s ICR shall not be used. The full requirements of the approved method, including quality assuance and quality control, are to be met. Quality assurance and sampling requirements in Chapter 62-160, F.A.C., shall apply.

Two concentrations of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be recorded in Part III of Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

1. Total cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods.

2. Potentially viable cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using the DAPI staining technique contained in EPA Method 1623 or similar enumeration techniques included in other approved methods. Cysts and oocysts that are stained DAPI postive or show internal structure by D.I.C. shall be considered as being potentially viable. If the laboratory reports separate values for DAPI positive and for cysts or oocysts having internal structure, the larger of the two concentrations will be reported as being potentially viable.

7. If the number of potentially viable cysts of Giardia reported exceeds 5 per 100 liters or oocysts of Cryptosporidium reported exceeds 22 per 100 liters, a subsequent sample shall be taken and analyzed using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods. This subsequent sample shall be collected within 90 days of the date the initial sample was taken, analyzed for both Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and the results of the subsequent analysis shall be submitted to the Department within 60 days of sample collection using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

(4) Ground water supplies.

(a) Ground water supplies may be used to supplement the reclaimed water supply, if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The applicant shall provide an affirmative demonstration that the quality of the resulting mixture of reclaimed water and ground water will be acceptable for the permitted uses of the reclaimed water within the reclaimed water distribution system. This shall include an evaluation of the factors contained in subparagraph 62-610.472(3)(a)2., F.A.C. This shall include an analysis of the ground water source for all of the parameters included in the ground water quality standards listed in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C.

2. An approved backflow prevention device, as described in Rrule 62-555.360, F.A.C., shall be provided on the pipe from each well connected into the reclaimed water system.

3. through 4. No change.

(b) If the initial analysis of the ground water supply reveals that the ground water supply does not meet ground water quality standards in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C., the parameters for which the ground water standards are not met shall be added to the quarterly monitoring of the ground water supply.

(5) Drinking water supplies. Drinking water from a public water supply system may be used to supplement the reclaimed water supply, if all of the following conditions are met:

(a) An air gap separation, as described in Rrule 62-555.360, F.A.C., shall be provided on each connection from the public water supply system into the reclaimed water system.

(b) through (d) No change.

(6) through (7) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 8-8-99, .

62-610.473 Hydraulic Loading Rates.

Loading rates generally shall be as specified in Rrule 62-610.423, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Formerly 17-610.473, .

62-610.475 Edible Crops at Commercial Agricultural Operations.

(1) through (4) No change.

(5) The permittee shall maintain an inventory of commercial agricultural operations using reclaimed water to irrigate edible crops. An initial and updated The inventory of edible crop irrigation shall be submitted to the Department at least 30 days before any agricultural operation which will use reclaimed water for irrigation of edible crops will be added to the reused system. The inventory of edible crop irrigation shall be submitted annually to the Department with the annual reuse report of reclaimed water utilization required by subsection 62-610.870(3), F.A.C. The inventory of edible crop irrigation shall include the following:

(a) through (f) No change.

(6) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 9-13-89, Formerly 17-610.475, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, .

62-610.476 Toilet Flushing and Fire Protection.

(1) Toilet flushing.

(a) No change.

(b) If reclaimed water will be used only for toilet flushing, the Department shall approve alternative levels of reliability, operation controls, and operator attendance if the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration in the engineering report that alternative controls will provide controls on reclaimed water production equivalent to the full requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., and the engineering report presents reasonable assurances that public health will be protected. The engineering report shall document cross-connection control measures and controls on facility operation sufficient to ensure reliable production of reclaimed water of suitable quality.

(2) Fire protection.

(a) through (c) No change.

(d) If reclaimed water will be used only for fire protection, the Department shall approve alternative levels of reliability, operation controls, and operator attendance if the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration in the engineering report that alternative controls will provide controls on reclaimed water production equivalent to the full requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., and the engineering report presents reasonable assurances that public health will be protected. The engineering report shall document cross-connection control measures and controls on facility operation sufficient to ensure reliable production of reclaimed water of suitable quality.

62-610.480 Other Reuse Applications.

(1) The Department shall approve other uses and resultant discharges of reclaimed water if the following requirements are met:

(a) All requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., are met; and,

(b) The engineering report provides reasonable assurance that the intended use will meet applicable rules of the Department and will protect the public health.

(2) Additional uses which are approved include the following provided resultant discharges meet applicable rules of the Department and will protect the public health:

(a) Water supply for commercial laundries;.

(b) Vehicle washing;.

(d) Mixing of concrete;.

(e) Manufacture of ice for ice rinks;.

(f) Cleaning roads, sidewalks, and outdoor work areas;.

(g) Hydrostatic testing of force mains;

(h) Dust control at construction site; and

(i) Indoor or outdoor aesthetic purposes (e.g., decorative pools, fountains, ponds, lagoons, and other aesthetic features).

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.480, Amended 1-9-96, .

62-610.491 Additional Operation and Maintenance Requirements.

(1) In addition to the operation and maintenance requirements specified in Rrule 62-610.320, F.A.C., and the engineering report requirements specified in Rrule 62-610.310, F.A.C., the following requirements apply to reuse systems for irrigation in public access areas.

(a) The permittee shall develop and obtain Department approval of an operating protocol as discussed in Rrules 62-610.320 and 62-610.463, F.A.C.

(b) The permittee shall develop and obtain Department acceptance for a cross-connection prevention and inspection program as discussed in Rrule 62-610.469, F.A.C.

(d) A pretreatment program shall be developed and implemented pursuant to Rrule 62-610.330, F.A.C.

(2) No change.

PART IV RADID-RATE LAND APPLICATION SYSTEMS

(RAPID INFILTRATION BASINS AND ABSORPTION FIELDS)

62-610.500 Description of System.

(1) No change.

(2) Absorption fields.

(a) No change.

(b) Absorption fields shall be designed to use the soil/plant overburden. They shall not be designed to have paved or impervious overburden surfaces. Systems designed with paved or impervious overburden surfaces shall meet the requirements of Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C. Particular attention shall be given to the reliability and flexibility of operating and maintaining the proposed application/distribution system as well as the level of preapplication treatment and surface drainage effects on the absorption fields.

(3) Because of the somewhat limited ability of these systems to renovate reclaimed water, the permittee shall, in the engineering report, address (in detail) the ability of the proposed project to meet ground water criteria at the edge of the zone of discharge. Projects having hydrogeologic or other project characteristics unfavorable for achieving the combined objectives of wastewater renovation, effluent disposal or reuse of reclaimed water, and ground water protection shall meet the requirements of Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C. New rapid-rate land application projects involving continuous loading to a single basin, RIB, percolation cell, or absorption field shall meet the requirements in Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C.

62-610.510 Waste Treatment, Disinfection, and Monitoring.

(1) At a minimum, preapplication waste treatment shall result in a reclaimed water meeting secondary treatment and basic disinfection levels prior to spreading into the rapid infiltration basins or absorption field system. The nitrate concentration in the applied reclaimed water shall not exceed 12 mg/L (as nitrogen) unless reasonable assurance is provided in the engineering report that nitrate as measured in any hydraulically down-gradient monitoring well located at the edge of the zone of discharge established in accordance with Chapter 62-520 rule 62-522.600, F.A.C., will not exceed 10 mg/L or background levels in the receiving ground water, whichever is less stringent. Design nitrate content of the reclaimed water prior to reuse shall be established by the permittee subject to Department approval. Additional treatment may be required as a result of the pond location, subsurface drainage, and hydraulic loading rate provisions contained below.

(2) No change.

(3) Monitoring.

(a) No change.

(b) Requirements for ground water monitoring shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.412, F.A.C.

62-610.514 Storage Requirements.

(1) No change.

(2) Where holding ponds are provided for reclaimed water storage, such ponds are subject to the requirements of Rrule 62-610.414, F.A.C.

62-610.517 Surface Runoff Control and Subsurface Drainage.

(1) No change.

(2) Subsurface drainage.

(a) If subsurface drain systems are needed, they shall be designed in accordance with appropriate portions of paragraph 62-610.300(1)(c) 62-610.300(1)(f), F.A.C., concerning Natural Resources Conservation Service criteria for subsurface drains. The drainage system shall be designed so that the seasonal high water table is drawn down to a minimum of 36 inches below pond bottoms during resting periods. The requirements of subsection 62-610.850(1), F.A.C., shall apply to discharges to surface waters from the drainage system.

(b) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.517, Amended 1-9-96, .

62-610.521 Setback Distances.

(1) No change.

(2) A setback distance of 500 feet shall be provided from the edge of the rapid infiltration basin, percolation pond, basin, or trench embankments, or from the edge of an absorption field to potable water supply wells that are existing or have been approved by the Department or by the Department of Health (but not yet constructed); Class I surface waters; or Class II surface waters. The setback distance to Class I and II surface waters shall be reduced to 100 feet if high-level disinfection is provided. Setback distance requirements apply to all Class II waters, regardless of Department classification (such as open, closed, approved, conditionally approved, restricted, conditionally restricted, prohibited, or unclassified). The setback distance to potable water supply wells, which are not potable water wells, as described in Rrule 62-521.200, F.A.C., shall be reduced to 200 feet if all of the following requirements are met:

(a) through (c) No change.

(3) through (9) No change.

(10) A 500-foot setback distance shall be provided from new unlined storage ponds to potable water wells, as described in Rrule 62-521.200, F.A.C.

(11) No change.

62-610.523 Design and Operation Requirements.

(1) Hydraulic loading rates shall be developed on the basis of representative percolation tests (drainfield percolation tests described in Cchapter 64E-6, F.A.C., are inappropriate) which simulate actual loading conditions that will prevail during the design life of the rapid-rate system. This shall involve bench-scale or pilot-scale hydraulic testing with either the actual reclaimed water to be applied, or other water properly adjusted to correspond to the composition of the reclaimed water to be applied. The design loading rate shall allow for the expected gradual reduction in percolation rate due to long-term application of reclaimed water.

(2) No change.

(3) Initial average annual hydraulic loading rates shall be limited to 3 inches per day, or 1.9 GPD/FT2, as an annual average where hydrogeologically feasible and as applied to the total bottom area of rapid infiltration basins, percolation cells, or absorption fields. For absorption fields, the bottom area shall be calculated by multiplying the bottom width of the absorption field trench by the length of the absorption field application/distribution lines. An applicant may request higher average annual loading rates based on justification provided in the engineering report, but such rates shall not exceed 9 inches per day (5.6 GPD/FT2), unless the requirements of Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C., are met. The average annual hydraulic loading rate shall be related to the clear water saturated vertical hydraulic conductivity for the most restrictive layer in the unconsolidated medium underlying the site. However, application rates during the loading cycle for individual rapid infiltration basins, percolation cells, or portions of the absorption field comprising the system will depend on the average annual hydraulic loading rate and the loading/resting cycle for the system. Application rates during the loading cycle shall be conservative and shall not exceed 25 percent of the documented vertical hydraulic conductivity, as described above, to control ground water mounding and ensure hydraulic performance of the system. Application rates during the loading cycle may exceed the maximum average annual hydraulic loading rates specified above. Justification for the use of selected design hydraulic criteria shall be required in the engineering report. These design criteria shall be based on the pollutant load in the reclaimed water to be applied, the characteristics of the underlying soil and aquifer system, loading and resting cycles to be used, and other process design considerations (including denitrification reactions that may be incorporated into the facility’s design).

(4) Hydraulic loading and resting cycles shall be developed so as to restore operating percolation rates of the pond system to design levels by the end of the resting period. Hydraulic loading periods of 1-7 days with resting periods of 5-14 days to dry the cell bottoms and enable scarification or removal of deposited solids are required. Design loading and resting cycles and other maintenance measures required to ensure system performance shall be described in the engineering report. Systems which achieve restoration of design operating percolation rates on a diurnal cycle shall meet the requirements of Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C. Loading and resting cycles are required for absorption fields. Loading and resting periods for absorption fields may vary from the requirements for rapid infiltration basins, if the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration that the alternative loading and resting cycle will enable compliance with the ground water criteria at the edge of the zone of discharge.

(5) through (8) No change.

(9) The physical characteristics of unconsolidated materials overlying the bedrock shall be such that direct rapid movement (short-circuit) of the applied reclaimed water to underlying aquifers does not occur, unless the requirements of Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C., are met.

62-610.525 Projects Involving Additional Levels of Preapplication Treatment.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) In accordance with Rrule 62-610.100, F.A.C., the Secretary or the Secretary’s designee may apply the requirements in Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C., to existing, rapid-rate land application facilities where violations of permit conditions or water quality standards have occurred to ensure future compliance with permit conditions and water quality standards.

(4) through (7) No change.

(8) Drinking water standards.

(a) Wastewater treatment facilities shall be designed and operated to meet the primary and secondary drinking water standards established in Rrules 62-550.310 and 62-550.320, F.A.C.

1. through 5. No change.

(b) The Department shall approve less restrictive discharge limits for parameters which are included as primary or secondary drinking water standards under any of the following circumstances:

1. The applicant provides an affirmative demonstration in the engineering report that a zone of discharge is appropriate and that the corresponding ground water standards contained in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C., will be met at the edge of the zone of discharge.

2. through 3. No change.

4. A parameter exemption has been granted, as provided in Rrule 62-520.500, F.A.C.

(9) Class I reliability as described in paragraph 62-610.300(1)(a) 62-610.300(1)(c), F.A.C., shall be provided. The Department shall approve alternative levels of treatment facility reliability if the permittee provides reasonable assurances in the engineering report that the facility will provide a level of reliability equivalent to Class I reliability. Class I reliability shall not be required if a permitted alternate treatment or discharge system exists which has sufficient capacity to handle any reclaimed water flows which do not meet the performance criteria for the reuse system.

(10) A ground water monitoring plan meeting the requirements of Rrule 62-520.600 62-522.600, F.A.C., is required. A proposed monitoring plan shall be included in the engineering report. Approval of the monitoring plan by the Department shall be a prerequisite for issuance of the initial permit.

(11) Setback distances shall be as established in Rrule 62-610.521, F.A.C.

(12) A pretreatment program shall be prepared and implemented in accordance with Rrule 62-610.330, F.A.C., for domestic wastewater treatment facilities which have permitted capacities of 0.1 mgd or larger and discharge all or part of their reclaimed water to rapid-rate land application systems regulated under Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C.

(13) The permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia. The following requirements shall be met:

(a) Sampling shall be conducted once every two years. Intervals between sampling shall not exceed two years. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before November 20 of each even numbered year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

(b) Samples shall be taken at a point immediately following the disinfection process.

(d) If the wastewater treatment facility uses chlorination for disinfection, samples collected for analysis of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be dechlorinated.

(e) A grab sample for TSS shall be taken such that it is representative of the water leaving the filters at the treatment facility during the period when pathogen samples are taken. In addition, the permittee shall record the lowest total residual chlorine observed during the period when pathogen samples are collected.

(f) EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods for reclaimed water or nonpotable waters, adjusted appropriately to accommodate the detection limit requirements, shall be used. Methods previously allowed for EPA’s ICR shall not be used. The full requirements of the approved method, including quality assurance and quality control, are to be met. Quality assurance and sampling requirements of Chapter 62-160, F.A.C., shall apply.

Two concentrations of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be recorded on Part III of Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

1. Total cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using EPA Method 1623 or other appoved methods.

PART V GROUND WATER RECHARGE AND INDIRECT POTABLE REUSE

62-610.550 Description of System.

(1) Ground water recharge.

(a) This type of reuse system involves the planned use of reclaimed water to augment Class F-I, G-I, or G-II ground waters. Types of ground water recharge systems include:

1. Injection of reclaimed water into Class F-I, G-I, or G-II ground waters, as described in Rrule 62-610.560, F.A.C.

2. Rapid-rate land application systems, as described and regulated by Ppart IV of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

3. Use of reclaimed water to create barriers to the landward or upward migration of salt water within Class F-I, G-I, or G-II ground waters, as described in Rrule 62-610.562, F.A.C. Rapid-rate land application or injection facilities may be used for salinity barrier control.

4. Discharge to surface waters which are directly connected to Class F-I, G-I, or G-II ground waters, as described in Rrule 62-610.555, F.A.C.

(b) No change.

(2) Indirect potable reuse. This type of reuse system involves the planned use of reclaimed water to augment surface water resources which are used or will be used for public water supplies. Indirect potable reuse systems include:

(a) Discharges to Class I surface waters, as described in Rrule 62-610.554, F.A.C.

(b) Discharges to other surface waters which are directly or indirectly connected to Class I surface waters, as described in Rrule 62-610.555, F.A.C.

62-610.553 Minimum System Size.

Reclaimed water from treatment facilities with a design average daily flow of less than 0.1 mgd shall not be used for ground water recharge or indirect potable reuse under the provisions of Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, .

62-610.554 Discharge to Class I Surface Waters.

(1) No change.

(2) Discharge of reclaimed water to wetlands located within Class I surface waters is allowed, if the requirements of Cchapters 62-611, and this part of 62-610, F.A.C., are met.

(3) through (4) No change.

(5) Discharges to surface waters shall meet reclaimed water or effluent limits established by procedures contained in Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C., and the requirements of the antidegradation policy contained in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

(6) through (7) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, Amended 8-8-99, .

62-610.555 Discharge to Other Surface Waters.

(1) Discharge to waters contiguous to or tributary to Class I waters.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) Discharge of reclaimed water or effluent to waters contiguous to or tributary to Class I waters shall be in accordance with Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C. Discharges shall meet the requirements of the antidegradation policy contained in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

(d) through (f) No change.

(2) Discharge upstream of Class I waters.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) Discharge of reclaimed water or effluent upstream of Class I waters shall be in accordance with Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C. Discharges shall meet the requirements of the antidegradation policy contained in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

(d) No change.

(3) Surface water discharges located greater than 24 hours travel time to Class I waters shall not be considered as indirect potable reuse. Discharges located greater than 24 hours travel time to Class I waters are not subject to regulation under Cchapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(4) Discharge to other surface waters which are directly connected to Class F-I, G-I, or G-II ground waters.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) A wetlands or other surface water which may recharge an underlying aquifer through percolation downward through unconsolidated material shall not be considered as being directly connected to ground water for purposes of this paragraph. Discharges to wetlands are subject to the requirements of Cchapter 62-611, F.A.C. Discharges to other surface waters are subject to the requirements of Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C. Discharge to a wetlands or other surface water which recharges ground water through vertical percolation also are subject to regulation under the ground water rules in Cchapters 62-520 and 62-522, F.A.C. These surface water discharges are not subject to regulation under Cchapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(d) through (e) No change.

(f) Discharges to surface waters shall meet reclaimed water or effluent limits established by procedures contained in Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C. Discharge limits shall be established to ensure that ground water quality criteria established in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C., will be met at the point or points where the surface water enters the ground water system. These surface water discharges shall meet the requirements of the antidegradation policy contained in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, Amended 8-8-99, .

62-610.556 Land Application.

It is recognized that land application projects can and do recharge ground water and can be used to augment ground waters used for potable purposes. Land application systems are regulated by Pparts II, III, IV, and VI of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. As a result, land application projects are not subject to regulation under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, .

62-610.560 Ground Water Recharge by Injection.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Reclaimed water may be injected into Class G-II ground water containing greater than 3000 mg/L of total dissolved solids, if the following conditions are met:

(a) through (b) No change.

(b) The reclaimed water shall meet the primary drinking water standards as described in paragraph 62-610.563(3)(b), F.A.C., before injection. The disinfection standards in sub-subparagraph 62-610.563(3)(b)1.a., F.A.C., shall govern. The fecal coliform limitations associated with high-level disinfection shall not apply. Zones of discharge shall not be provided for parameters listed as primary drinking water standards (except for sodium).

(c) The reclaimed water does not have to comply with the secondary drinking water standards before injection. A zone of discharge, as described in Rrule 62-520.465 62-522.410, F.A.C., shall be provided for the parameters included in the secondary drinking water standards and for sodium. The ground water shall meet all ground water quality standards at the edge of the zone of discharge. If the natural background ground water quality does not meet the ground water quality standards, the injection system shall be operated such that the ground water quality will be no worse than the natural background ground water quality at the edge of the zone of discharge.

(d) The zone of discharge shall not extend into zones having TDS concentrations less than 3000 mg/L (based on the initial TDS characterization in the engineering report and subsequent information).

(4) All injection projects shall comply with the technical and permitting requirements in Cchapter 62-528, F.A.C., and shall obtain an underground injection control construction and operation permit, as appropriate, in addition to any permits required under Cchapters 62-610 and 62-620, F.A.C.

(5) The Department shall approve less restrictive discharge limitations for parameters which are included as drinking water standards in either of the following circumstances:

(a) No change.

(b) A parameter exemption has been granted, as described in Rrule 62-520.500, F.A.C.

(6) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087, 403.859 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088, 403.859 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.560, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99,

62-610.562 Salinity Barrier Systems.

(1) No change.

(2) If rapid-rate land application systems are used to create such barriers, the requirements in Ppart IV of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall apply. Rapid-rate land application systems are not subject to regulation under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(3) Except as provided in subsection 62-610.562(4), F.A.C., if injection systems are used, the requirements of Rrule 62-610.560. F.A.C., shall apply.

(4) Salinity barrier systems involving injection to Class G-II ground water containing 1000 to 3000 mg/L of total dissolved solids. Treatment requirements specified in subsection 62-610.560(3), F.A.C., shall apply to this case, if all of the following conditions are met:

(a) through (d) No change.

(e) The zone of discharge shall not extend into zones having TDS concentrations less than 1000 mg/L (based on the initial TDS characterization in the engineering report and subsequent information).

(5) The Department shall approve less restrictive discharge limitations for parameters which are included as drinking water standards in either of the following circumstances:

(a) No change.

(b) A parameter exemption has been granted, as described in Rrule 62-520.500, F.A.C.

(6) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, Amended 8-8-99, .

62-610.563 Waste Treatment and Disinfection.

(1) Rule 62-610.563, F.A.C., defines two levels of treatment and disinfection: “principal treatment and disinfection,” and “full treatment and disinfection.” These two levels of treatment and disinfection, or specific components of these levels of treatment and disinfection, shall be applied to ground water recharge and indirect potable reuse projects as required by other rules within Ppart V of this chapter.

(2) Principal treatment and disinfection requirements.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) Total nitrogen shall be limited to 10 mg/L as nitrogen as a maximum annual average limitation. Monthly average and single sample permit limitations shall be established using the multipliers in subparagraph 62-600.740(1)(b)2., F.A.C. For surface water discharges, WQBELs established under Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C., may place additional limitations on nitrogen or other parameters.

(3) Full treatment and disinfection requirements.

(a) No change.

(b) Drinking water standards.

1. Wastewater treatment facilities shall be designed and operated to meet the primary and secondary drinking water standards established in Rrules 62-550.310 and 62-550.320, F.A.C.

a. through c. No change.

(4) Treatment and disinfection requirements imposed by Rrule 62-610.563, F.A.C., are additive to other effluent or reclaimed water limitations imposed by other rules (such as WQBEL limits designed to protect surface water quality, which are imposed by Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C.).

(5) All ground water recharge and indirect potable reuse projects regulated by Ppart V of this chapter shall implement pretreatment programs in accordance with Rrule 62-610.330, F.A.C.

(6) No change.

62-610.564 Pilot Testing Program.

(1) No change.

(2) The pilot testing program shall be designed to demonstrate the ability of the selected treatment processes to meet the requirements of Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., and to generate a supply of reclaimed water that can be used to evaluate the suitability of the reclaimed water for ground water recharge or indirect potable reuse. Pilot testing shall be done using wastewater/reclaimed water.

(3) through (5) No change.

62-610.567 Reliability and Operator Staffing.

(1) A minimum of Class I reliability, as described in paragraph 62-610.300(1)(a) 62-610.300(1)(c), F.A.C., shall be provided at all domestic wastewater treatment facilities providing reclaimed water for ground water recharge and indirect potable reuse systems, which are regulated by Ppart V this of chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(a) through (b) No change.

(2) No change.

(3) Except as provided in subsection 62-610.567(4), F.A.C., domestic wastewater treatment facilities which are not required to provide full treatment and disinfection shall be staffed by a Class C or higher operator 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. The lead/chief operator shall be at minimum Class B, or higher if required by Cchapter 62-699, F.A.C.

(4) The minimum staffing requirement at the wastewater treatment facility shall be reduced to staffing by a Class C or higher operator 6 hours per day, 7 days per week, unless Cchapter 62-699, F.A.C., requires additional operator presence or a higher level of operator. The lead/chief operator shall be at minimum Class C, or higher if required by Cchapter 62-699, F.A.C. This minimum staffing requirement shall be allowed only in conjunction with at least one of the following:

(a) through (b) No change.

(5) No change.

62-610.568 Monitoring and Operating Protocol.

(1) Only acceptable quality reclaimed water shall be discharged to reuse systems regulated under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(2) No change.

(3) The treatment facility shall include continuous on-line monitoring for turbidity before application of the disinfectant. Continuous monitoring for total residual chlorine residual or for residual concentrations of other disinfectants, if used, shall be provided at the compliance monitoring point. Instruments for continuous on-line monitoring shall be equipped with an automated data logging or recording device. Continuous online monitoring instruments shall be calibrated according to the requirements of Cchapters 62-160 and 62-600 62-601, F.A.C. Continuous online monitoring instruments shall be maintained according to the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance instructions.

(4) through (5) No change.

(6) Other reclaimed water monitoring shall meet the requirements of Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C.

(7) In accordance with Rrule 62-610.320, F.A.C., the permittee shall develop, and the Department shall approve, an operating protocol designed to ensure that the reclaimed water limitations will be met before the reclaimed water is released to the reuse system. For treatment facilities required to provide full treatment and disinfection, the operating protocol shall include monitoring and control of key treatment processes for removal of organic compounds required by subsection 62-610.563(3), F.A.C., and shall incorporate the fail safe “lock-out” provisions of subsection 62-610.567(2), F.A.C. In the engineering report, the applicant shall describe and justify the operational controls on the key treatment processes for removal of organic compounds. Reclaimed water produced at the treatment facility that fails to meet the criteria established in the operating protocol shall not be released to the system storage or reuse system. Such substandard reclaimed water (reject water) shall be either stored for subsequent additional treatment or shall be discharged to another permitted reuse system requiring lower levels of preapplication treatment or to a permitted effluent disposal system. The operating protocol shall be reviewed and updated by the permittee as required by Rrule 62-610.320, F.A.C. The permittee shall submit the current operating protocol to the Department for review with any application to renew or modify the permit.

(8) Ground water monitoring requirements shall be as specified in Rrule 62-610.412, F.A.C. A ground water monitoring plan meeting the requirements of Cchapters 62-520 62-522, 62-600 62-601, and 62-610, F.A.C., is required. Submittal and approval of ground water monitoring plans shall be in accordance with Rrule 62-520.600 62-522.600, F.A.C. Department approval of the ground water monitoring plan is a prerequisite for issuance of the initial permit.

(9) No change.

(10) Except as noted in subsection 62-610.568(11), F.A.C., the permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia. The following requirements shall be met:

(a) Sampling shall be conducted quarterly. Intervals between sampling shall not exceed three months. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before February 28, May 28, August 28, and November 28 of each year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

(b) No change.

1. Discharge to Class I surface waters, as described in Rrule 62-610.554, F.A.C.

2. No change.

3. Injection projects used for ground water recharge or salinity barrier control, as described in Rrule 62-610.560 or 62-610.562, F.A.C.

4. No change.

(d) Samples shall be taken during peak flow periods between the months of August and October.

(e) If the wastewater treatment facility uses chlorination for disinfection, samples collected for analysis of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be dechlorinated.

(f) A grab sample for TSS shall be taken such that it is representative of the water leaving the filters at the treatment facility during the period when pathogen samples are taken. In addition, the permittee shall record the lowest total residual chlorine observed during the period when pathogen samples are collected.

(g) EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods for reclaimed water or nonpotable waters, adjusted appropriately to accommodate the detection limit requirements, shall be used. Methods previously allowed for EPA’s ICR shall not be used. The full requirements of the approved method, including quality assurance and quality control, are to be met. Quality assurance and sampling requirements in Chapter 62-160, F.A.C., shall apply. Two concentrations of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be recorded on Part III of Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

1. Total cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods.

(h) If the number of potentially viable cysts of Giardia reported exceeds 5 per 100 liters or oocysts of Cryptosporidium reported exceeds 22 per 100 liters, a subsequent sample shall be taken and analyzed using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods. This subsequent sample shall be collected within 90 days of the date the initial sample was taken, analyzed for both Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and the results of the sebsequent analysis shall be submitted to the Department within 60 days of sample collection using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

(11) For projects involving discharge to waters upstream of Class I surface waters, as described in subsection 62-610.555(2), F.A.C., the permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia. The following requirements shall be met:

(a) Sampling shall be conducted at one time during each two-year period. Intervals between sampling shall not exceed two years. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before November 28 of each even numbered year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

(b) No change.

(d) If the wastewater treatment facility uses chlorination for disinfection, samples collected for analysis of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be dechlorinated.

(f) EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods for reclaimed water or nonpotable waters, adjusted appropriately to accommodate the detection limit requirements, shall be used. Methods previously allowed for EPA’s ICR shall not be used. The full requirements of the approved method, including quality assurance and quality control, are to be met. Quality assurance and sampling requirements in Chapter 62-160, F.A.C., shall apply.

Two concentrations of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be recorded on Part III of Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

1. Total cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods.

62-610.571 Setback Distances.

(1) Setback distances for injection facilities shall be established in accordance with Rrule 62-610.521, F.A.C.

(2) No change.

(3) Where zones of discharge are allowed by this part and by Rrule 62-520.465 62-522.410, F.A.C., the zone of discharge shall not extend closer than 500 feet to a potable water supply well.

(4) No change.

(5) For potable water supply wells that are not potable water wells, as described in Rrule 62-521.200, F.A.C., the Department shall approve smaller setback distances than those required by subsections 62-610.571(3) and (4), F.A.C., if the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration in the engineering report that confinement exists between the injection zone and the potable water supply well such that the injection will not adversely affect the quantity or quality of water withdrawn from the potable water supply well.

(6) No change.

62-610.573 Storage Requirements.

(1) No change.

(2) If system storage is provided, the requirements for system storage ponds shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.464, F.A.C.

(3) A separate, off-line system shall be provided for storage of reject water. Reject water storage shall have sufficient capacity to ensure retention of reclaimed water of unacceptable quality. At a minimum, for treatment facilities required to provide full treatment and disinfection, this capacity shall be the volume equal to three days flow at the average daily permitted flow of the treatment plant, or the average daily permitted flow of the reuse system, whichever is less. If full treatment and disinfection is not required, the capacity requirement shall be reduced to one day’s flow. Provisions for recirculating this reject water to other parts of the treatment plant for further treatment shall be incorporated into the design. Reject storage shall not be required if another permitted reuse system or effluent disposal system is capable of discharging the reject water in accordance with the requirements of Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C. Reject storage ponds shall be lined or sealed to prevent measurable seepage, as described in Rrule 62-610.414, F.A.C.

(4) No change.

62-610.574 Access Control, Advisory Signs, and Public Notification.

(1) Access control for storage ponds shall be as described in Rrule 62-610.518, F.A.C.

(2) Chapter 62-620, F.A.C., requires public notification and provides opportunities for a public meeting for projects involving surface water discharges. Chapter 62-528, F.A.C., requires public notification and provides opportunities for a public meeting for projects involving underground injection. These public notification and public meeting requirements contained in Cchapters 62-528 and 62-620, F.A.C., shall apply to injection and surface water discharge projects, respectively, regulated under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(3) Permittees developing ground water recharge or indirect potable reuse projects that will be regulated under Ppart V this of chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall implement public education and public participation programs during the planning stages of the reuse program. The public education and public participation programs shall be described in detail in the engineering report.

(4) Applicants shall provide written notice to affected public water supply utilities within the area to be affected by the proposed project. For projects involving discharges to Class I waters, affected utilities shall include public water supply utilities drawing source water from the Class I water. For ASR Aquifer storage and recovery projects and injection projects regulated by Rrules 62-610.466, 62-610.560, or 62-610.562, F.A.C., affected utilities shall include public water supply utilities withdrawing ground water for public water supply within two miles of the proposed injection well, or within the area of review established in accordance with Rrule 62-528.300(4), F.A.C., whichever is larger. For projects involving discharges to surface waters that are directly connected to ground water, which serve as ground water recharge, as described in subsection 62-610.555(4), F.A.C., affected utilities shall include public water supply utilities withdrawing ground water for public water supply within two miles of the point of discharge and within two miles of the point or points where the surface water enters the ground water. Written notice also shall be provided to the appropriate county health department. These written notifications shall be accomplished before the submittal of the initial permit application. Documentation of this notification procedure shall be included in the engineering report. These notices to affected utilities and to the county health department are required for the following types of projects:

(a) Discharge to Class I surface waters, as described in Rrule 62-610.554, F.A.C.

(b) No change.

(c) Injection projects used for ground water recharge or salinity barrier control, as described in Rrule 62-610.560 or 62-610.562, F.A.C.

(d) No change.

PART VI OVERLAND FLOW SYSTEMS

62-610.610 Waste Treatment and Disinfection.

(1) Approval of projects involving preapplication treatment below secondary treatment and basic disinfection levels shall be given provided the physical site conditions in Rrule 62-610.625, F.A.C., are met. Proposed preapplication treatment levels shall provide reasonable assurance that long-term performance of the land treatment system shall, at a minimum, result in an effluent meeting the secondary treatment and basic disinfection levels before release of effluent to the environment by final surface water discharge from land treatment sites. The pollutant content of the final effluent may be more stringently limited by effluent limitations required in Cchapters 62-600 and 62-650, F.A.C., as required to satisfy water quality requirements.

(2) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Amended 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.610, Amended 1-9-9, .

62-610.613 Monitoring of Effluent and Ground Water.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Ground water monitoring requirements, if any, shall be established pursuant to Rrule 62-610.412, F.A.C.

62-610.614 Storage Requirements.

(1) through (3) No change.

(4) Requirements for system storage holding ponds shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.414, F.A.C. Where a continuous aquitard is present at the overland flow site, the aquitard may be used to provide assurance of compliance with the liner or seal requirements of Rrule 62-610.414, F.A.C.

62-610.617 Surface Runoff Control.

Requirements for control of runoff entering the land application site shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.417, F.A.C. All discharges from the application site shall result in maintenance of water quality standards.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-4-89, Formerly 17-610.617, .

62-610.621 Setback Distances.

(1) No change.

(2) Overland flow land application systems shall maintain a distance of 100 feet from the edge of the wetted area of the land application area to buildings that are not part of the treatment facilities, utilities system, or municipal operations; or to the site property line, and to potable water supply wells, which are not potable water wells, as described in Rrule 62-521.200, F.A.C., that are existing or have been approved by the Department or by the Department of Health (but not yet constructed).

(3) A setback distance of 500 feet shall be provided from the edge of the wetted area to Class I surface waters; or Class II surface waters, or to potable water wells, as described in Rrule 62-521.200, F.A.C., that are existing or have been approved by the Department or by the Department of Health (but not yet constructed). Setback distance requirements apply to all Class II waters, regardless of Department classification (such as open, closed, approved, conditionally approved, restricted, conditionally restricted, prohibited, or unclassified).

(4) through (6) No change.

PART VII INDUSTRIAL USES OF RECLAIMED WATER

62-610.650 Description of System.

(1) No change.

(2) Use of treated industrial wastewaters for land application, recycling within the industrial facility, or other reuse or disposal methods is not governed by Cchapter 62-610, F.A.C. Reuse or disposal of industrial wastewaters is regulated by the Department’s industrial wastewater rules.

(3) The reclaimed water flowing out of the industrial process shall be considered as an industrial wastewater and shall be subject to regulation under Cchapters 62-4, 62-302, 62-520, 62-521, 62-522, 62-620, 62-621, 62-650, 62-660, 62-670, 62-671, 62-672, and 62-673, F.A.C., except as provided in Rrule 62-610.668, F.A.C.

(4) No change.

62-610.652 Waste Treatment, Disinfection, and Monitoring.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Except as provided in paragraph 62-610.668(2)(d), F.A.C., domestic wastewater treatment or disinfection provided at the industrial facility before reuse of the reclaimed water at the industrial facility shall be subject to domestic wastewater permitting if the treatment or disinfection at the industrial site is needed to meet the minimum treatment and disinfection requirements imposed by this Ppart of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(4) No change.

(5) All requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., including minimum system size requirements, shall be met if reclaimed water will be used in open cooling tower applications, except as provided in paragraph 62-610.668(2)(c) or (d), F.A.C.

(6) Monitoring.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) For facilities that provide reclaimed water for use in open cooling towers, the permittee shall sample the reclaimed water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia. The following requirements shall be met:

1. Sampling shall be conducted at one time during each two-year period. Intervals between sampling shall not exceed two years. This sampling frequency is independent of the treatment plant’s capacity. The sample results shall be submitted to the Department on or before November 28 of each even numbered year using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

2. No change.

3. Samples shall be taken during peak flow periods between the months of August and October.

4. If the wastewater treatment facility uses chlorination for disinfection, samples collected for analysis of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be dechlorinated.

5. A grab sample for TSS shall be taken such that it is representative of the water leaving the filters at the treatment facility during the period when pathogen samples are taken. In addition, the permittee shall record the lowest total residual chlorine observed during the period when pathogen samples are collected.

6. EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods for reclaimed water or nonpotable waters, adjusted appropriately to accommodate the detection limit requirements, shall be used. Methods previously allowed for EPA’s ICR shall not be used. The full requirements of the approved method, including quality assurance and quality control, are to be met. Quality assurance and sampling requirements in Chapter 62-160, F.A.C., shall apply.

Two concentrations of Giardia and Cryptosporidium shall be recorded on Part III of Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

a. Total cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods.

b. Potentially viable cysts and oocysts shall be enumerated using the DAPI staining technique contained in EPA Method 1623 or similar enumeration techniques included in other approved methods. Cysts and oocysts that are stained DAPI positive or show internal structure by D.I.C. shall be considered as being potentially viable. If the laboratory reports separate values for DAPI positive and for cysts or oocysts having internal structure, the larger of the two concentrations will be reported as being potentially viable.

7. If the number of potentially viable cysts of Giardia reported exceeds 5 per 100 liters or oocysts of Cryptosporidium reported exceeds 22 per 100 liters, a subsequent sample shall be taken and analyzed using EPA Method 1623 or other approved methods. This subsequent sample shall be collected within 90 days of the date the initial sample was taken, analyzed for both Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and the results of the subsequent analysis shall be submitted to the department within 60 days of sample collection using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)4.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, Amended 8-8-99, .

62-610.656 Storage Requirements.

(1) No change.

(2) If system storage facilities are provided at the domestic wastewater treatment facility, the following requirements apply:

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), below, requirements for design and operation of system storage facilities shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.414, F.A.C.

(b) If all requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., are met, requirements for design and operation of system storage facilities shall be as contained in Rrule 62-610.464, F.A.C.

(3) If system storage facilities are provided at the industrial facility, these storage facilities are subject to regulation under the facility’s industrial wastewater permit. These system storage facilities located at the industrial facility will not be regulated under Cchapter 62-610, F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, Amended 8-8-99, .

62-610.662 Setback Distances.

(1) No change.

(2) If reclaimed water which meets the requirements of Ppart II of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., is used to irrigate landscaped areas on the industrial site, the setback distance requirements in Rrule 62-610.421, F.A.C., shall apply.

(3) If reclaimed water which meets the requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., is used to irrigate landscaped areas on the industrial site, the setback distance requirements in Rrule 62-610.471, F.A.C., shall apply.

(4) A 300-foot setback distance shall be provided from an open cooling tower that receives reclaimed water to the site property line. If the full requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., or of paragraph 62-610.668(2)(d), F.A.C., are met, no setback distance from the cooling tower to the site property line shall be required.

(5) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, Amended 8-8-99, .

62-610.668 Cooling Water Applications.

(1) Once-through cooling.

(a) No change.

(b) Setback distances shall be as established in Rrule 62-610.662, F.A.C.

(2) Open cooling towers.

(a) No change.

(b) All requirements of Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., including minimum system size requirements, shall be met.

(d) As an alternative to the requirements in paragraph 62-610.668(2)(b), F.A.C., all of the following requirements shall be met in the facility’s industrial wastewater permit:

1. through 3. No change.

4. In lieu of the operation, staffing, and reliability provisions in Rrule 62-610.462, F.A.C., operation, maintenance, staffing and reliability requirements shall be addressed in the facility’s industrial wastewater permit in accordance with applicable industrial wastewater rules.

5. No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, Amended 8-8-99, .

62-610.669 Use of Reclaimed Water at Wastewater Treatment Plants.

(1) No change.

(2) Reclaimed water may be used to irrigate landscaped areas at the wastewater treatment plant.

(a) If the reclaimed water has received secondary treatment and basic disinfection, the requirements of Ppart II of this chapter, including setback distance requirements, shall be met. Reclaimed water meeting the secondary treatment definition contained in subparagraph 62-600.420(1)(b)2., F.A.C., may be used for this irrigation. Storage shall not be required.

(b) If the reclaimed water meets the treatment and disinfection requirements in Ppart III of this chapter, the irrigation shall be regulated under Ppart III.

(3) through (5) No change.

(6) Partially treated or undisinfected wastewater may be used for process water or other purposes at the wastewater treatment plant if the wastewater is collected after use and returned to the wastewater treatment plant for additional treatment or disinfection. Use of partially treated wastewater shall not be classified as reuse, unless the water has received a minimum of secondary treatment as defined in subparagraph 62-600.420(1)(b)2., F.A.C. Water that has received a minimum of secondary treatment as defined in subparagraph 62-600.420(1)(b)2., F.A.C. (with or without disinfection), which is used for a beneficial purpose under this paragraph shall be considered “reclaimed water” and the use shall be considered “reuse.” Partially treated wastewater which does not meet the minimum treatment and disinfection criteria established in Cchapters 62-600 and 62-610, F.A.C., shall not be released to the environment.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 1-9-96, .

62-610.670 Industrial Discharge Limitations.

(1) Disposal or reuse of industrial wastewater resulting from the use of reclaimed water or other water sources in industrial processes shall be subject to Department regulation under the industrial wastewater program. Chapter 62-650, F.A.C., and Department rules governing industrial wastewater, as contained in Cchapters 62-4, 62-302, 62-520, 62-521, 62-522, 62-620, 62-621, 62-650, 62-660, 62-670, 62-671, 62-672, and 62-673, F.A.C., shall apply.

(2) Reclaimed water used for once-through cooling shall have effluent discharge limitations for surface water discharge established by Ssection 403.086(4), F.S., if all the following conditions are met:

(a) The reclaimed water delivered to the industrial site meets the requirements contained in Ssection 403.086(4), F.S.

(b) The discharge to surface water is located within the geographic area defined in Ssection 403.086(1)(c), F.S.

(e) Department rules governing thermal discharges in Rrule 62-302.520, and paragraph 62-620.106(1)(f), F.A.C., will apply at the discharge point.

PART VIII PERMITTING

62-610.800 Permitting Requirements.

(1) Construction, modification, or operation of reuse or land application systems requires a permit from the Department in accordance with Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C., and with this chapter.

(2) The permittee shall comply with applicable design and performance criteria pursuant to this chapter and the permitting requirements contained in Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C.

(3) through (4) No change.

(5) Implementation of Slow-Rate Land Application Projects in Public Access Areas, Residential Irrigation, and Edible Crop Irrigation.

(a) The reuse/land application permit for a project regulated by Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall meet the requirements of Rrules 62-620.310 and 62-620.630, F.A.C.

(b) A general permit pursuant to Rrule 62-610.890, F.A.C., is needed for the addition of a new major user that is not identified in the existing permit and is located within the area designated in an existing permit. This general permit shall only be used if the permittee does not request modification of the permitted capacity.

(6) Record drawings.

(a) Record drawings are required for reuse and land application systems as discussed in Rrule 62-620.630, F.A.C.

(b) For projects permitted under Pparts III or VII of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., record drawings are not required for facilities located on individual sites using reclaimed water. It is recommended, but not required, that permittees and users of reclaimed water maintain record drawings or other detailed records of the locations of reclaimed water facilities located on these sites.

(7) Placing a Facility in Operation.

(a) The permittee shall obtain written approval from the Department before placing the initial part, portion, or phase of a reuse system permitted under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., into operation. Written application shall be made using Form 62-610.300(3)(a)3 62-610.300(4)(a)3. Requirements for placing the reuse system into operation are contained in Rrule 62-620.630, F.A.C. Approval shall be granted if the requirements in Rrule 62-620.630, F.A.C., are met.

(b) Requirements for placing reuse and land application systems permitted under Ppart II, IV, V, VI, or VII of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., into operation are contained in Rrule 62-620.630, F.A.C.

(8) Backup discharge permitting. There are several mechanisms for obtaining permits for surface water discharges which will serve as backup discharges for reuse systems. These include:

(a) The normal procedures for obtaining a surface water discharge permit using the provisions of Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C. Upon request, discharge limitations can be developed on a seasonal basis.

(b) The limited wet weather discharge provisions in Rrule 62-610.860, F.A.C. This mechanism has potential application for inland projects where the receiving water provides sufficient dilution.

(c) Section 403.086(5), F.S., provides minimum treatment standards for all surface water discharges located within the geographic area specified in Ssection 403.086(1)(c), F.S. Advanced wastewater treatment is required.

(d) The Florida APRICOT Act, contained in Ssection 403.086(7), F.S., allows backup discharges anywhere in the state, if the requirements in Ssection 403.086(7), F.S., are met.

(9) Abnormal Events.

(a) Abnormal events shall be regulated under the “bypass” and “upset” provisions in Rrule 62-620.610, F.A.C.

(b) Discharges permitted pursuant to Rrule 62-610.860, F.A.C., as a limited wet weather discharge shall not be considered as abnormal events.

(10) Water Management District Coordination.

(a) Domestic wastewater permits issued by the Department shall be consistent with requirements for reuse included in applicable consumptive use permits issued by the water management district, if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The requirements for reuse in the consumptive use permit are consistent with Department rules in this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

2. through 3. No change.

(b) No change.

(11) For aquifer storage and recovery projects regulated under Rrule 62-610.466, F.A.C., and ground water recharge projects regulated under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., which require characterization of the total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration of ground water contained in the aquifer receiving reclaimed water, this characterization shall be made at the time of the initial permit application. Normally, this TDS characterization will be based on best available information. If available information is not sufficient to classify a proposed project based on the TDS at the point of injection, an exploratory well program shall be conducted before submittal of the engineering report in order to make a definitive determination of TDS at the point of injection. For injection to G-II ground water, the TDS determination shall be made at the point of injection and will not consider TDS in contiguous ground waters. The TDS determination made at the time of the initial permit application shall remain unchanged, even if the injection of reclaimed water alters the TDS concentration over a period of time.

(12) No change.

(13) The Department encourages utilities implementing reuse projects to meter and charge for the use of reclaimed water as described in Ssection 403.064(16), F.S.

(14) The Department encourages efficient and effective use of reclaimed water featuring relatively high potable quality water offset or recharge fractions as described in Table 5 in the publication entitled, Water Reuse for Florida: Strategies for Effective Use of Reclaimed Water.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.064, 403.087, 403.0881 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.064, 403.087, 403.088, 403.0881 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.800, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, 11-19-07, .

62-610.810 Classification of Projects as “Reuse” or “Disposal.”

(1) No change.

(2) Reuse projects. The following shall be classified as “reuse:”

(a) Slow-rate land application projects with restricted access permitted under Ppart II of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(b) Projects permitted under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(c) Rapid-rate land application systems permitted under Ppart IV of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall be classified as “reuse” for ground water recharge.

(d) Projects making reclaimed water from domestic wastewater sources available for industrial applications, as described in Ppart VII of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(e) Ground water recharge projects permitted under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(f) Indirect potable reuse projects permitted under Ppart V of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(g) No change.

(h) Other uses.

1. Other uses specifically addressed in Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., such as toilet flushing, fire protection, construction dust control, aesthetic purposes, and recreational uses, shall be classified as “reuse.”

2. Other uses not addressed elsewhere in this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall be classified as “reuse” if the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration that reclaimed water will be used for a beneficial purpose or the use of reclaimed water will eliminate the need for use of a potable water or a water that could be used as a source of potable water.

(i) No change

(3) Effluent disposal projects. The following shall be classified as “effluent disposal:”

(a) No change.

(b) Overland flow systems permitted under Ppart VI of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., unless the final reclaimed water produced by the overland flow system is subsequently used for a beneficial purpose and meets the criteria in subsection 62-610.810(2), F.A.C.

(d) No change.

(e) Continuously loaded rapid-rate land application systems or absorption fields, unless they meet the criteria for ground water recharge or indirect potable reuse systems established in subsection 62-610.810(2), F.A.C., or meet the requirements of Rrule 62-610.525, F.A.C.

(f) Rapid-rate land application systems using perimeter drainage features or underdrains which collect and discharge more than 50 percent of the applied reclaimed water, as discussed in Rrule 62-610.517, F.A.C.

(4) Wetlands creation, restoration, or enhancement projects shall be reviewed with each permit renewal. The applicant for permit renewal shall submit with the application for permit renewal documentation that the project continues to function as designed and that the wetlands creation, restoration, or enhancement aspects remain applicable. If the documentation does not provide an affirmative demonstration that the wetlands creation, restoration, and enhancement attributes of the project continue, the Department shall reclassify the project as “effluent disposal” and shall require submittal of an antidegradation demonstration meeting the requirements of Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

(5) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087, 403.0881 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088, 403.0881 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.810, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, .

62-610.820 Reuse Feasibility Studies.

(1) Reuse feasibility studies are required by the following:

(a) No change.

(b) The Indian River Lagoon system and Basin Act, contained in Cchapter 90-262, Laws of Florida.

(d) No change.

(2) No change.

(3) Applicants meeting both of the following conditions are not required to submit reuse feasibility studies with permit applications for domestic wastewater facilities:

(a) The only rule or statute that requires preparation of a reuse feasibility study is Ssection 403.064, F.S.; and,

(b) One of the following conditions exists:

1. through 2. No change

(4) Reuse feasibility studies required by one or more of the items listed in paragraph 62-610.820(1)(a), (b), or (c), F.A.C., when being prepared by or on behalf of a local government or utility which has responsibility for domestic wastewater management, shall be prepared in accordance with paragraph 62-610.300(1)(e) 62-610.300(1)(l), F.A.C.

(5) The Department shall approve deviations or modifications from the required format or content specified in paragraph 62-610.300(1)(e) 62-610.300(1)(l), F.A.C., for a reuse feasibility study, if the alternative format or study content provides the same level of evaluation as specified in paragraph 62-610.300(1)(l), F.A.C. Some examples of areas of possible deviations or modifications include: alternatives to be evaluated; definitions of the levels of reuse to be evaluated; methods of evaluating rates and fees; allocation of costs to all benefitted parties; consideration of other alternative investments to achieve goals (ASR, conservation, others); methods of valuing water saved, including possible adjustments for periods when water supplies are sufficient without the reclaimed water system; and presentation formats. Multiple types of reuse may be combined to formulate alternatives for evaluation.

(6) through (7) No change.

(8) Subsection 403.064(5), F.S., states that a reuse feasibility study prepared for the Department under subsection 403.064(2), F.S., satisfies a water management district requirement to conduct a reuse feasibility study imposed on a local government or utility that has responsibility for wastewater management. As a result, local governments or utilities located within, serving a population within, or discharging within a designated water resource caution area, which are preparing a reuse feasibility study in response to one or more of the items identified in paragraph 62-610.820(1)(a), (b), or (c), F.A.C., are encouraged, but shall not be required by the Department, to do the following as part of their reuse feasibility study:

(a) No change.

(b) If additional alternatives are identified by the water management district, the applicant is encouraged, but shall not be required by the Department, to evaluate these alternatives using the methods specified in paragraph 62-610.300(1)(e) 62-610.300(1)(l), F.A.C.

(9) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.064, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.0877, 403.088 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.820, Amended 1-9-96, .

62-610.830 Storage Lakes and Ponds.

(1) Lakes, ponds, and other surface waters may be used to store reclaimed water as part of reuse systems permitted under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. Lakes included under this rule include golf course lakes, stormwater ponds, and other lakes or ponds used as decorative features.

(2) If these storage lakes are waters of the state, the discharge into the lakes must be permitted under Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C. Discharge limits shall be established using the provisions in Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C. The discharge shall be subject to the requirements of the antidegradation policy in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

(3) If these storage lakes discharge intermittently or continuously to waters of the state, the discharge into the lakes must be permitted under Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C. Discharge limits shall be established using the provisions in Cchapter 62-650, F.A.C. The discharge shall be subject to the requirements of the antidegradation policy in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C.

(4) Storage lakes which are part of the stormwater management system.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) Technology-based effluent limitations (TBELs) shall be imposed on the discharge of reclaimed water to the storage lake. The TBELs TBEL will be established based on the treatment and disinfection requirements in Rrule 62-610.460, F.A.C.

(d) through (e) No change.

(5) Discharge of reclaimed water to isolated storage lakes which do not discharge to waters of the state do not require a permit under Cchapter 62-620, F.A.C.

(6) Storage lakes regulated under Rrule 62-610.830, F.A.C., shall be included in the inventory of storage systems required by subsection 62-610.464(5), F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087, 403.0881 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.087, 403.088, 403.0881 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.830, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, .

62-610.850 Protection of Surface Water and Ground Water Quality.

(1) Protection of surface water quality, including springs.

(a) Reuse and land application projects shall not cause or contribute to violations of water quality standards in surface waters and springs.

(b) Projects having point source discharges (e.g., indirect potable reuse projects permited under Part V and , such as overland flow projects permitted under Ppart VI of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., and underdrained slow-rate and rapid-rate land application systems), shall be subject to all applicable discharge and permitting requirements contained in Department rules, Florida Statutes, and Laws of Florida, including the following:

1. Permitting requirements and effluent or reclaimed water limits in chapter 62-620, F.A.C.

2. Permitting requirements and effluent or reclaimed water limits in chapter 62-600, F.A.C.

3. WQBEL provisions imposed by chapter 62-650, F.A.C.

4. Permitting requirements and effluent or reclaimed water limits imposed by chapter 62-611, F.A.C.

5. Outstanding Florida Waters provisions in chapter 62-302, F.A.C.

6. Effluent or reclaimed water limits imposed by Ssection 403.086(4), F.S., for discharges within the areas identified in Ssection 403.086(1)(c), F.S., and Chapter 2020-150, Laws of Florida.

7. Effluent or reclaimed water limits imposed by Cchapter 90-262, Laws of Florida, for discharges within the area identified in Cchapter 90-262, Laws of Florida.

8. Florida Springs and Aquifer Protection Act povisions in Sections 373.801-373.813, F.S.

9.8. Compliance with water quality standards established in chapter 62-302, F.A.C.

10.9. Compliance with the antidegradation policy contained in chapters 62-4 and 62-302, F.A.C.

(c) Ground water discharges from reuse or land application projects which flow by interflow and affect water quality in surface waters shall not cause or contribute to violations of water quality standards in surface waters and springs.

(d) The engineering report shall provide reasonable assurances that applicable surface water quality standards for surface waters and springs contained in chapter 62-302, F.A.C., will be met. If water quality standards cannot be met, additional treatment or disinfection shall be provided or other operational control measures shall be implemented.

(e) If the applicant is unable to provide reasonable assurances in the engineering report that the applicable water quality standards will be met, the applicant shall do the following in the engineering report:

1. Propose additional treatment or disinfection or other operational controls designed to ensure compliance with the water quality standards.

2. Provide reasonable assurances that the additional treatment or disinfection or other operational control measures will ensure compliance with the water quality standards.

(2) Protection of Ground Water Quality.

(a) Reuse and land application projects shall be designed and operated to ensure compliance with ground water quality standards contained in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C.

(b) No change.

(c) If the applicant is unable to provide reasonable assurances in the engineering report that the minimum preapplication treatment and disinfection requirements contained in this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., are sufficient to ensure compliance with the ground water quality standards, the applicant shall do the following in the engineering report:

1. through 2. No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087, 403.0881 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.087, 403.088, 403.0881 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.850, Amended 1-9-96, .

62-610.860 Limited Wet Weather Discharge.

(1) No change.

(2) An applicant requesting a permit for a limited wet weather discharge shall include the following information in the engineering report:

(a) through (f) No change

(g) Calculation of the required minimum stream dilution factor as follows:

SDF	=	P(0.085 CBOD5 + 0.272 TKN - 0.484)
Where:
SDF	=	minimum required stream dilution factor (dimensionless),
P	=	percent of the days of the year that limited wet weather discharge will occur during an average rainfall year (e.g. if discharge will occur on 73 days; P = 100% × (73/365) = 20; if P is less than 1, use P = 1),
CBOD5	=	the treatment facility’s design monthly maximum limitation for CBOD5 in mg/Lmilligrams per liter,
TKN	=	the treatment facility’s design monthly maximum limitation for TKN expressed in mg/Lmilligrams per liter of nitrogen.

(h) Documentation required by the antidegradation policy in Rrules 62-4.242 and 62-302.300, F.A.C., if the limited wet weather discharge will be a new or expanded surface water discharge.

(i) No change.

(3) Limited wet weather discharge for a reuse project shall be permitted without the need for a WQBEL or other water quality analyses only if all of the following requirements are met:

(a) through (d) No change.

(e) The reuse system is a slow-rate land application system regulated by Ppart II or III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(4) through (6) No change.

(7) A stream gauging station shall be furnished at a point upstream of the discharge point. In cases where stream gauging is not possible, the applicant shall provide an affirmative demonstration that alternative means of measuring or estimating flows and dilution provide reasonable assurances that the dilution requirements in Rrule 62-610.860, F.A.C., will be met during periods of discharge.

(8) through (13) No change.

(14) A limited wet weather discharge is not an emergency discharge pursuant to this chapter. 62-610, F.A.C. A limited wet weather discharge is not an abnormal event pursuant to rules 62-600.750 and 62-610.880, F.A.C.

(15) No change

62-610.865 Blending of Demineralization Concentrate with Reclaimed Water.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Demineralization concentrate may be blended with reclaimed water which will be used in reuse systems regulated under Pparts II, III, IV, and VII of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., if all of the requirements of Rrule 62-610.865, F.A.C., and the appropriate parts part of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., are met.

(4) Permittees wishing to blend demineralization concentrate with reclaimed water are urged to proceed cautiously. Concentrate typically contains elevated concentrations of dissolved solids and inorganic constituents, which normally are not removed from the reclaimed water as it travels through the unsaturated or saturated zones beneath the Earth’s surface. As a result, the ability of a reuse or land application project to meet ground water quality criteria at the edge of the zone of discharge shall be addressed in the engineering report. Elevated concentrations of dissolved solids and salts may harm sensitive vegetation being grown on the reuse or land application site and may decrease the hydraulic capacity of reuse and land application sites, especially where reclaimed water will be used to irrigate landscape areas and edible food crops, as allowed by Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(5) Engineering report.

(a) The engineering report shall provide reasonable assurances that ground water criteria contained in Cchapter 62-520, F.A.C., will be met at the edge of the zone of discharge.

(b) through (g) No change.

(6) Demineralization concentrate, reclaimed water, and blend quality.

(a) No change

(b) The reclaimed water shall meet all requirements of the appropriate part of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., at a point upstream from the addition of the concentrate.

(c) The blend shall meet all requirements of the appropriate part of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., at the point where it is introduced into the reclaimed water conveyance or distribution system.

(d) No change.

(7) Permitting.

(a) through (d) No change.

(e) Adding concentrate to the reclaimed water at an existing domestic wastewater facility and reuse system shall be considered as a modification which will subject the reuse facilities to the requirements of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.

(8) Monitoring.

(a) Reclaimed water shall be monitored as required by the appropriate part of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. Monitoring requirements in Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C., shall apply.

(b) through (c) no change.

(d) Continuous monitoring equipment shall be equipped with an automated data logging or recording device. Continuous monitoring equipment shall be maintained according to the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance instructions. Continuous monitoring equipment shall be calibrated according to the requirements of Cchapters 62-160 and 62-600 62-601, F.A.C.

(e) The blend shall be monitored as required by the appropriate part of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C. Monitoring requirements in Cchapter 62-600 62-601, F.A.C., shall apply to the blend. Total suspended solids, fluoride, total dissolved solids, chlorides, pH, and sodium adsorption ratio shall be monitored weekly in the blend. Additional parameters to be sampled and analyzed for in the blend on a weekly basis shall be established in the permit based on characterization of the concentrate and the blend contained in the engineering report. After the first year of operation, the Department shall reduce the sampling frequency if the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration that ground water standards will be met and that site vegetation and public health will be protected.

(f) An annual scan of the parameters listed as primary and secondary drinking water standards in Cchapter 62-550, F.A.C. (except for asbestos turbidity, total coliforms, color, odor and residual disinfectants corrosivity), shall be accomplished for the reclaimed water, the concentrate, and the blend.

1. Results of the scan shall be reported on DMR Form 62-620.910(10). DMR forms shall be electronically submitted to the Department by January 28 using the DEP Business Portal at http://www-fldepportal.com/go/.

2. Approved analytical methods identified in paragraph 62-620.100(3)(j), F.A.C., shall be used for analysis. If no method is included for a parameter, methods specified in Chapter 62-550, F.A.C., shall be used.

3. After the first year, the Department shall reduce the parameters to be reported in the annual scan if the applicant provides an affirmative demonstration that ground water standards will be met and that site vegetation and public health will be protected. At a minimum, when an application for permit renewal is submitted, least once during each permit cycle, the full list of parameters listed as primary and secondary drinking water parameters, except for the exceptions listed in subsection 62-610.865(8)(f),F.A.C., shall be reported for the reclaimed water and the blend and submitted with the permit application.

(9) Operating protocol.

(a) In accordance with Rrule 62-610.320, F.A.C., the domestic wastewater permittee shall establish an operating protocol for the blending. This operating protocol shall contain procedures designed to ensure that only acceptable quality blend water is released to the reuse system. The acceptability of the reclaimed water will be based on factors addressed in the engineering report, as described in subsection 62-610.865(5), F.A.C., such that protection of public health, environmental quality, and site vegetation will be assured. The two key parameters to be used in making continuous judgments of the acceptability of the blend are the blend ratio and the specific conductance.

(b) Reuse projects regulated under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., will have an additional operating protocol for operation of the domestic wastewater treatment facility, as described in Rrule 62-610.463, F.A.C. The permittee may combine the two operating protocols into a single document.

(10) through (12) No change.

(13) Demineralization concentrate may be discharged into the sanitary sewerage system.

(a) All of the following conditions shall be met:

1. The resulting mixture of concentrate and domestic wastewater receives the full level of treatment required by the part of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., which regulates the reuse system.

2. through 6. No change.

(b) No change.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.087 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS. History–New 8-8-99, .

62-610.870 Reporting and Enforcement.

(1) Reporting and enforcement procedures shall be pursuant to Cchapters 62-600 62-601 and 62-620, and rule 62-600.740, F.A.C.

(2) For facilities having an approved limited wet weather discharge, reporting and enforcement requirements are specified in Rrule 62-610.860, F.A.C.

(3) Annual Reuse Report.

(a) Permittees having responsibility for domestic wastewater treatment facilities (new and existing) having permitted capacities of at least 0.1 mgd that discharge all or part of their reclaimed water to reuse systems permitted under this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall submit an annual report to the Department and the appropriate water management Department district office. This reporting requirement also applies to all permittees responsible for operation of reuse authorities. Domestic wastewater permits issued by the Department identify portions of domestic wastewater projects that are categorized as “reuse.” The report shall be electronically submitted annually on or before January 1 of each year in accordance with Form 62-610.300(3)(a)2, F.A.C. One copy of the annual report shall be submitted to each of the following addresses:

1. Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Reuse Coordinator, Mail Station 3540, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

2. The appropriate Department of Environmental Protection district office.

3. The appropriate water management district.

(b) The annual report shall be delivered or mailed to these addresses on or before January 1 of each year.

(e) Form 62-610.300(4)(a)2. shall be used for these annual reports.

(d)(f) Permittees shall attach their inventory of storage facilities, as required by Rrules 62-610.464 and 62-610.830, F.A.C., to the annual reuse report.

(e)(g) Permittees making reclaimed water available for activities regulated by Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C., shall attach a summary of their public notification program (including copies of public notification materials), as required by subsection 62-610.468(6), F.A.C., to the annual reuse report.

(f)(h) Permittees making reclaimed water available for activities listed in subsection 62-610.800(13), F.A.C., shall attach a summary of the utility’s metering activities and the rate structure that the utility currently employs or plans to employ, as required by subsection 62-610.800(13), F.A.C., and Ssection 403.064(16), F.S., to the annual reuse report.

Rulemaking Authority 403.051, 403.061, 403.064, 403.087, 403.0881 FS. Law Implemented 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.064, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088, 403.0881 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.870, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, 11-19-07, .

62-610.890 General Permit for Adding New Major Users to a Part III Reuse System.

(1) A general permit is hereby granted to a permittee whose permit includes a reuse system for the addition of a new major user of reclaimed water (using 0.1 mgd or more, as an annual average), provided that:

(a) Notice to the Department under subsection 62-4.530(1), F.A.C., is submitted on Form 62-610.300(3)(a)1.62-610.300(4)(a)1.; and,

(b) The reuse system is permitted under Ppart III of this chapter 62-610, F.A.C.; and,

(f) Reclaimed water will be used by the major user in accordance with this chapter for an activity allowed by Ppart III or part VII of this chapter.

(2) The notice to the Department of the permittee’s intent to use this general permit requires certification by a professional engineer registered in the State of Florida and the applicant on Form 62-610.300(3)(a)1. 62-610.300(4)(a)1.

Rulemaking Authority 403.814(1) FS. Law Implemented 403.061, 403.087, 403.088, 403.814 FS. History–New 4-2-90, Formerly 17-610.890, Amended 1-9-96, 8-8-99, .

NAME OF PERSON ORIGINATING PROPOSED RULE: Alexandra Spencer, Senior Program Analyst, Wastewater Management Program

NAME OF AGENCY HEAD WHO APPROVED THE PROPOSED RULE: Noah Valenstein, Secretary

DATE PROPOSED RULE APPROVED BY AGENCY HEAD: November 23, 2020

DATE NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT PUBLISHED IN FAR: October 5, 2020

Document Information

Comments Open:: 12/15/2020
Summary:: Proposed revisions to Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., correct regulatory references and clarify current language consistent with other title 62 chapters. Revisions include updating DEP Form 62-610.300(2)(a)2 “Annual Reuse Report” to require electronic submittal of the form through the Department’s online business portal. Revisions to DEP Form 62-610.300(2)(a)4, “Pathogen Monitoring” requires the electronic submittal of the form and eliminates the requirement for permittees ...
Purpose:: The Department of Environmental Protection is revising Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., to correct regulatory references and clarify current language which will ensure proper regulation for the use of reclaimed water in the state of Florida. The proposed revisions add clarity to both substantive and administrative aspects of the chapter.
Rulemaking Authority:: 403.051, 403.061, 403.064, 403.087 F.S.
Law:: 403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088 FS.
Related Rules: (15): 62-610.100. Scope, Intent, Purpose, and Applicability; 62-610.200. Definitions; 62-610.300. General Technical Guidance, Related Rules, and Forms; 62-610.310. Engineering Report; 62-610.320. Operation and Maintenance Requirements and Operating Protocols; More ...