The Filter Backwash Recycling Rule (FBRR) addresses a statutory requirement of the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments to promulgate a regulation which "governs" the recycling of filter backwash water within the treatment process of public water systems PWSs.

The purpose of the FBRR is to require PWSs to review their recycle practices and, where appropriate, work with the state primacy agency to make any necessary changes to recycle practices that may compromise microbial control.

The materials found on this page are intended to assist public water systems affected by the FBRR comply with the regulation and in state implementation of the LT1ESWTR. 

• Filter Backwash Recycling Rule Technical Guidance Manual (PDF)(178 pp, 4 MB, About PDF) EPA 816-R-02-014

• Filter Backwash Recycling Rule: A Rule Summary for Systems (PDF)(10 pp, 142 K, About PDF) EPA 816-R-02-013

For more information, please see the Surface Water Treatment Rules page.