Abstract: The development and utilization of non-conventional water resources have become important measures taken by countries around the world to alleviate water resource crises. To deepen the understanding of the level and status of China's non-conventional water resource development and utilization and better support its management, in this study, the terminology and implications of non-conventional water resources are highlighted and explained based on field investigations on the development and utilization of different types of such resources. In addition, the current utilization level and modes in the development of non-conventional water resources are summarized, the main problems analyzed, and targeted countermeasures suggested. In recent years, China has intensified the development and utilization of non-conventional water resources, which has increased yearly, reaching 8.64 billion m³ by the end of 2018. However, non-conventional water resources account for less than 1.5% of the total water supply in the country. Moreover, problems still exist in its operation, such as incomplete systems and mechanisms, inadequate planning and design, and shortcomings in engineering technology. These restrict the systematic development and utilization of non-conventional water resources. The development and utilization of non-conventional water resources involve a wide range of fields and a joint effort between all sectors of society is required to usher in a new era in its usage.