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Water: Graywater & Cisterns
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Graywater is wastewater originating from sinks, showers, bathtubs or laundry. A graywater system collects this water to be used as a supplement to potable water used for irrigation. A cistern is a large tank that stores rainwater and is connected to a pressurized drip irrigation system. Currently Cisterns installed in Santa Monica must follow the same guidelines and regulations as graywater systems.
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New Graywater Standards
As of January 20, 2010, there are new standards regulating graywater systems in the State of California. Stay tuned for important permitting changes.
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Important Graywater Resources:
Tap these resources to significantly reduce your water consumption and sewage production. There are some challenges in getting started, but provides the following provides a starting point in the continuing effort to build a more sustainable Santa Monica.
Because there is so much misinformation available, a great place to start your exploration of graywater is with its recognized guru, Art Ludwig. This site provides a good overview of graywater systems and will help you to determine the suitability of a graywater system for your property. Next, consider getting one of Art’s two books described on the website. There is one book for general interest and one for contractors.
Another good resource is Graywater Guidelines available from WaterCASA. The document is based on Arizona State law but includes a lot of helpful information including system diagrams. After you install your system, don’t forget to notify the utility billing office at 310/458-8224. They may give you a discount on your sewer bill.
Finally, a few rules of thumb:
- For minimum hassle, the things you want to water should be downhill from the lowest point in your graywater system. Simple systems cost less and will be cost‑effective in a shorter period of time.
- No matter how much graywater you produce, you will probably still need a conventional irrigation system on at least part of your property.
- Putting in a graywater system is not something that is going to save you a lot of money. But it is one of the most effective things you can do to cut your exterior water use and reduce the waste stream from your home.
Important Cistern Resources
Questions? Call city’s Watershed Management Section at 310/458-8972. |
Last updated: Tuesday, 02/23/2010
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REBATES available for a limited time!
Visit SoCalWaterSmart rebate website for details.
Single Family residents call:
(888) 376-3314.
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Rain Barrel & Cistern Rebate Program
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Harvesting rainwater protects the Bay from runoff and makes watering your yard fun. If that's not enough incentive, what about a generous rebate? Would that help?
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