CC 2015-12-08_12a Introduction of Landscape Ordinance
MEMORANDUM
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: TERESA McCLISH, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
BY: KELLY HEFFERNON, ASSOCIATE PLANNER
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 16.84
OF THE ARROYO GRANDE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING WATER
EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS AND ADOPTING BY
REFERENCE THE MODEL WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
ORDINANCE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND MANDATORY
PLUMBING FOR GREYWATER REUSE FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL AND
MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT; DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT
CASE NO. 15-002; LOCATION – CITYWIDE; APPLICANT – CITY OF
ARROYO GRANDE
DATE: DECEMBER 8, 2015
RECOMMENDATION:
The Planning Commission recommends the City Council: 1) introduce an Ordinance
amending Chapter 16.84 of the Arroyo Grande Municipal Code adopting by reference
the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance of the State of California as contained
in the California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Waters, Division 2.7, Model Water
Efficient Landscape Ordinance, Sections 490 et. seq., including mandatory plumbing for
greywater reuse capabilities for new residential and mixed-use development; and 2)
schedule January 12, 2016 as the date for a public hearing to adopt the Ordinance
pursuant to Government Code Section 50022.3.
IMPACT ON FINANCIAL AND PERSONNEL RESOURCES:
No fiscal impact is identified at this time. There will be additional staff time necessary
to review water efficient landscape plans and materials to determine compliance with
State regulations, create a tracking and reporting system, prepare reports and transmit
annual reports to the State. The costs related to these additional activities are
unknown.
This item addresses the City’s Critical Needs Action Plan measure to “implement
recommendations to address the City’s water needs through a combination of
conservation measures, potential recycling efforts and additional water supply sources
that may become available.”
Item 12.a. - Page 1
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 16.84 OF THE ARROYO
GRANDE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
REQUIREMENTS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE MODEL WATER EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND MANDATORY PLUMBING
FOR GREYWATER REUSE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT;
DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT CASE NO. 15-002; LOCATION – CITYWIDE;
APPLICANT – CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE
DECEMBER 8, 2015
PAGE 2
BACKGROUND:
In 2006, the State Legislature adopted the “Water Conservation in Landscaping Act”
(Assembly Bill 1881), requiring the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to update
the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). The updated model
ordinance contained several new landscape and irrigation design requirements aimed at
reducing water consumption and waste in landscape irrigation. All local land use
agencies were required to adopt the model ordinance, or develop an ordinance that is at
least as effective.
On June 14, 2011, the City adopted a Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance that was
determined to be as effective in achieving water conservation goals as the State’s
model, but was simpler to comprehend and implement, making it less onerous on
property owners and developers and less expensive to implement (reduce costs for new
homes and reduce the City’s administrative costs as compared to the State’s
requirements). The Ordinance was incorporated into a new Chapter 16.84 of Title 16 of
the City’s Municipal Code.
In April 2015, the Governor of California issued an executive order directing the DWR to
update the State’s Model Water Efficient Ordinance (CA MWELO) in order to address
the current four (4) year drought and build resiliency for future droughts. In June 2015,
the DWR invited comment on the new draft and held several public meetings. The
draft, meeting notices, and additional information can be found at:
http://www.water.ca.gov/wateruseefficiency/docs/2015/EO_B_29_15_MWELO_Update_
06_12_15%28VL%29_Public_Draft.pdf.
The DWR adopted the proposed CA MWELO in July 2015 and on September 15, 2015
the California Secretary of State ordered the regulations to be incorporated into Division
2, Title 23, California Code of Regulations to amend Chapter 2.7 Model Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance, Sections 490 through 495. Attachment 1 shows the regulations
as submitted by the State for publication.
On November 3, 2015, the Planning Commission considered this item and
recommended that the City Council adopt the CA MWELO, including greywater
plumbing requirements for new residential and mixed-use development.
ANALYSIS OF ISSUES:
State law requires all land-use agencies to adopt a water-efficient landscape ordinance
that is at least as efficient as the CA MWELO prepared by DWR. DWR’s model
ordinance takes effect in those cities and counties that fail to adopt their own. Cities
acting on their own are required to adopt their new MWELO by December 1, 2015.
Because it is anticipated that future amendments will be made to the CA MWELO,
Item 12.a. - Page 2
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 16.84 OF THE ARROYO
GRANDE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
REQUIREMENTS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE MODEL WATER EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND MANDATORY PLUMBING
FOR GREYWATER REUSE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT;
DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT CASE NO. 15-002; LOCATION – CITYWIDE;
APPLICANT – CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE
DECEMBER 8, 2015
PAGE 3
adopting the State’s MWELO, by reference, allows these amendments to occur without
requiring amendments to the City’s Municipal Code. This also allows the City to follow
the State standards without having to add the CA MWELO in its entirety to the City’s
Municipal Code.
The CA MWELO includes several provisions for new landscaping, including
requirements for:
• Landscape documentation submittals • Greywater Systems
• Water efficient landscape worksheet
submittals
• Stormwater and Rainwater
Retention
• Soil Management • Water Waste Prevention
• Landscape and Irrigation Design
Plans
• Public Education
• Irrigation scheduling and efficiency • Annual Reporting
• Recycled Water
In general, the CA MWELO requires specific water efficiency, and will make it difficult to
install and maintain turf in new developments that are dependent on potable water. Use
of recycled water is exempt from these limitations. The revisions to the CA MWELO
reduce the size threshold of landscape projects subject to the water efficiency
requirements from 2,500 square feet of landscaping to 500 square feet of landscaping
for commercial, residential, industrial and institutional projects that require a permit, plan
check or design review. The size threshold for existing landscapes that are
rehabilitated has not changed, remaining at 2,500 square feet. Only rehabilitated
landscapes that are associated with a building permit, plan check or design review are
subject to the CA MWELO. Land-use agencies will also be required to report on
ordinance adoption and enforcement each year, beginning December 31, 2015.
Specifically, the most significant revisions made to the CA MWELO include more efficient
irrigation systems, including requirements for:
1. Dedicated landscape water meters for residential landscapes over 5,000 square
feet, and non-residential landscapes over 1,000 square feet.
2. Irrigation systems to have pressure regulators and master shut-off valves.
3. All irrigation emission devices to meet the national standard stated in the CA
MWELO to ensure that only high efficiency sprinklers are installed.
Item 12.a. - Page 3
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 16.84 OF THE ARROYO
GRANDE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
REQUIREMENTS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE MODEL WATER EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND MANDATORY PLUMBING
FOR GREYWATER REUSE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT;
DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT CASE NO. 15-002; LOCATION – CITYWIDE;
APPLICANT – CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE
DECEMBER 8, 2015
PAGE 4
4. Flow sensors that detect and report high flow conditions due to broken pipes and/or
popped sprinkler heads for landscape areas greater than 5,000 square feet.
5. Ten-foot (10’) minimum width (changed from 8 feet) for areas that can use spray
irrigation. Areas less than ten feet (10’) wide must be irrigated with subsurface drip
or other technology that produces no overspray or runoff.
The CA MWELO revisions also include incentives for greywater usage, improvements for
on-site stormwater capture, limiting the portion of landscapes that can be planted with high
water use plants, and annual reporting requirements for local agencies. Currently, the City
allows for certain types of greywater and rainwater reuse systems. It is anticipated that
mandates for these water reuse systems for new construction will not occur until after
being further vetted through the statewide building code update process.
However, given the multi-year drought conditions and uncertain future water supply, the
Council might consider an addition to the ordinance that all new residential and mixed-use
developments be required to install plumbing for greywater reuse capabilities. To clarify,
greywater is water previously used by the interior of the house from clothes washers,
bathtubs, showers, or bathroom sinks and reused for outdoor irrigation. It does not include
water from toilets, kitchen sinks, or dishwashers. Greywater systems vary from simple and
inexpensive designs that do not require a permit to complex systems that require
adherence to California Plumbing Code regulations. There are basically two types of
greywater systems: gravity fed manual systems and package systems. The manual
systems do not require electricity or pumps because they work on gravity taking the
greywater to the area needed (e.g. “laundry to landscape”). Packaged systems require
electricity but are self-contained and can be installed indoors.
Currently, San Francisco is the only jurisdiction within the State that requires greywater
and blackwater systems to be installed with new large development (250,000 square feet
or more). However, Tucson Arizona adopted a greywater reuse ordinance in 2008 that is
more applicable for residential projects. If Council favors including greywater reuse for all
new residential and mixed-use development, staff recommends that the following
requirements apply (adapted from the Tucson ordinance):
• All new dwellings shall include either a separate multiple pipe outlet or a diverter
valve, and an outside “stub-out” installation on clothes washing machine hook-ups,
allowing separate discharge of greywater for direct irrigation.
• All new dwellings shall include a building drain(s) for bathroom sinks, showers and
bathtubs, segregated from drains for all other plumbing fixtures, and connected a
minimum of three (3) feet from the limits of the foundation, to allow for future
installation of a distributed greywater system.
Item 12.a. - Page 4
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 16.84 OF THE ARROYO
GRANDE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
REQUIREMENTS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE MODEL WATER EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND MANDATORY PLUMBING
FOR GREYWATER REUSE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT;
DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT CASE NO. 15-002; LOCATION – CITYWIDE;
APPLICANT – CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE
DECEMBER 8, 2015
PAGE 5
• All greywater systems shall be designed and operated according to the provisions
of the California Plumbing Code.
See Attachments 2 and 3 for more information on greywater.
ALTERNATIVES:
The following alternatives are presented for the Council’s consideration:
• Introduce the ordinance as proposed, including greywater plumbing requirements
for all new residential and mixed-use developments;
• Modify and introduce the ordinance to exclude greywater plumbing requirements;
• Do not introduce the ordinance and direct staff to develop an alternative
ordinance that is at least as effective as the CA MWELO; or
• Provide other direction to staff.
ADVANTAGES:
Introducing the proposed ordinance would have the following advantages:
1. Reduces municipal water usage for the City;
2. Brings the City into conformance with CA MWELO requirements; and
3. Allows the City to follow the State standards without having to add the CA
MWELO in its entirety to the City’s Municipal Code.
DISADVANTAGES:
1. The CA MWELO includes new reporting by cities to the State. City staff time will
be required to create a system of tracking and reporting, prepare reports and
transmit the annual reports to the State.
2. The size of landscapes subject to the Ordinance has been lowered from 2,500
square feet to 500 square feet for projects requiring a permit, plan check or
design review. Therefore, a greater number of applicants will be subject to the
new regulations, which will add costs to the overall project (e.g. separate
irrigation meters, pressure regulators, master shut-off valves, high efficiency
sprinklers, flow sensors, onsite stormwater capture).
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
This Ordinance has been determined to be exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15307 of the State CEQA Guidelines for
actions by regulatory agencies for protection of natural resources. The Model Water
Efficient Landscape Ordinance addresses the protection of statewide water resources
by requiring certain landscaping projects to analyze their water budget. There is no
evidence that the proposed project may have a potentially significant effect on the
Item 12.a. - Page 5
CITY COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 16.84 OF THE ARROYO
GRANDE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
REQUIREMENTS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE MODEL WATER EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND MANDATORY PLUMBING
FOR GREYWATER REUSE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT;
DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT CASE NO. 15-002; LOCATION – CITYWIDE;
APPLICANT – CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE
DECEMBER 8, 2015
PAGE 6
environment. As such, the project qualifies for exemption pursuant to Section
15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION AND COMMENTS:
The Agenda was posted in front of City Hall on Thursday, December 3, 2015. The
Agenda and report were posted on the City’s website on Friday, December 4, 2015. No
public comments were received.
Attachments:
1. State’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (CA MWELO)
2. San Luis Obispo Guide to the Use of Greywater
3. City of Tucson – Residential Greywater Information Guide
Item 12.a. - Page 6
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF ARROYO GRANDE AMENDING CHAPTER 16.84 OF
THE ARROYO GRANDE MUNICIPAL CODE ADOPTING
BY REFERENCE THE MODEL WATER EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE OF THE STATE OF
CALIFORNIA AS CONTAINED IN THE CALIFORNIA
CODE OF REGULATIONS TITLE 23 WATERS, DIVISION
2, DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES, CHAPTER
2.7, MODEL WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
ORDINANCE, SECTIONS 490 ET. SEQ., INCLUDING
MANDATORY PLUMBING FOR GREYWATER REUSE
CAPABILITIES FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED-
USE DEVELOPMENT
WHEREAS, on January 17, 2014, the Governor of the State of California declared a
state of emergency due to record dry conditions and concerns over the State’s
dwindling water supplies, and on April 25, 2014, the Governor declared a continued
state of emergency due to the persistent drought conditions and the need for additional
expedited actions; and
WHEREAS, on April 1, 2015, Governor Brown issued Executive Order B-29-15, which
ordered the State Water Resources Control Board to impose significant new water use
restrictions, including directing that the Department of Water Resources revise the
existing Model Efficient Landscape Ordinance contained in California Code of
Regulations Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7, Sections 490 et. seq. through expedited
regulations; and
WHEREAS, on July 15, 2015 the new Model Efficient Landscape Ordinance was
adopted by the California Water Commission, and State law requires that all land-use
agencies adopt a water-efficient landscape ordinance that is at least as efficient as the
Model Ordinance prepared by the Department of Water Resources; and
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 50022.1 et seq. provides that ordinances and
codes of the Federal, State or any agency of either of them, may be adopted by
reference, provided that prior to such adoption by reference a noticed public hearing
has been held; and
WHEREAS, greywater systems constructed and operated according to California
Plumbing Code regulations provide a safe method of reducing water demand; and
WHEREAS, greywater systems can save a typical household more than 13,000 gallons
of potable water per year; and
Item 12.a. - Page 7
ORDINANCE NO.
PAGE 2
WHEREAS, installation of sub-outs at the time of construction greatly facilitate the use
of greywater in residences; and
WHEREAS, at its meeting of January 12, 2016 the City Council of the City of Arroyo
Grande conducted a duly noticed public hearing on the matter of adopting the State’s
Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance by amending Chapter 16.84 of the Arroyo
Grande Municipal Code, including mandatory pluming provisions for greywater reuse
capabilities for new residential and mixed-use development.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Arroyo Grande
as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapter 16.84 of the Arroyo Grande Municipal Code is hereby repealed
and amended in its entirety to read as follows:
“Chapter 16.84 – WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS
16.84.010 Adoption of the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
The “Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance” of the State of California, as
contained in California Code of Regulations Title 23 Waters, Division 2 Department of
Water Resources, Chapter 2.7 Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, Sections
490 et. seq. is hereby adopted by reference as the water efficient landscape ordinance
of the City of Arroyo Grande, as the same may be amended from time to time, as if set
out in full in this Chapter. A copy of the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance of
the State of California shall be maintained in the City of Arroyo Grande Community
Development Department office and shall be made available for public inspection while
this ordinance is in force. “Local agency” in the Model Water Efficient Landscape
Ordinance shall mean the City of Arroyo Grande.”
16.84.020 - Greywater Applications
1. All new dwellings shall include either a separate multiple pipe outlet or a diverter
valve, and an outside “stub-out” installation on clothes washing machine hook-ups,
allowing separate discharge of greywater for direct irrigation.
2. All new dwellings shall include a building drain(s) for bathroom sinks, showers and
bathtubs, segregated from drains for all other plumbing fixtures, and connected a
minimum of three (3) feet from the limits of the foundation, to allow for future
installation of a distributed greywater system.
3. All greywater systems shall be designed and operated according to the provisions
of the California Plumbing Code.
SECTION 2. This Ordinance has been determined to be exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 15307 of the State
CEQA Guidelines for actions by regulatory agencies for protection of natural resources.
The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance addresses the protection of statewide
Item 12.a. - Page 8
ORDINANCE NO.
PAGE 3
water resources by requiring certain landscaping projects to analyze their water budget.
There is no evidence that the proposed project may have a potentially significant effect
on the environment. As such, the project qualifies for exemption pursuant to Section
15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines.
SECTION 3. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, or clause of
this Ordinance or any part thereof is for any reason held to be unlawful, such decision shall
not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The
City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection,
subdivision, paragraph, sentence, or clause thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or
more section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, or clause be declared
unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. A summary of this Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper
published and circulated in the City of Arroyo Grande at least five (5) days prior to the
City Council meeting at which the proposed Ordinance is to be adopted. A certified
copy of the full text of the proposed Ordinance shall be posted in the office of the City
Clerk. Within fifteen (15) days after adoption of the Ordinance, the summary with the
names of those City Council Members voting for and against the Ordinance shall be
published again, and the City Clerk shall post a certified copy of the full text of such
adopted Ordinance.
SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its adoption.
On motion by Council Member ______, seconded by Council Member _______, and by
the following roll call vote to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
the foregoing Ordinance was adopted this ____ day of _______, 2016.
Item 12.a. - Page 9
ORDINANCE NO.
PAGE 4
________________________
JIM HILL, MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________
KELLY WETMORE, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
_________________________________
DIANNE THOMPSON, CITY MANAGER
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________
HEATHER WHITHAM, CITY ATTORNEY
Item 12.a. - Page 10
IATTACHMENT 1:
Title 23 Department of Water Resources I § 490
r
entcnng into the loan contract. For investor-owned utilities, meetings or
hearmgs held by the Public Ut1ht1es Commission may serve as Project
Feasibility Meetmgs.
(b) Before a Project Feas1b1hty Meetmg, the supplier shall:
(I) Make available mformat1011 describing the project in a fonn and lo-
cation that will enable the water users to review it and to make appropn-
ate comments The informat10n must be made available for a penod of
at least fifteen days before the Project Feasibility Mcetmg.
(2) Establish a date for the meeting agreeable to the Department and
Department of Health Services.
(3) Notify the Department, the Department of Health Services and ap-
propnate county health agencies m writing at least twenty calendar days
before the meeting, and notify all water users and the local news media
in writing at least fifteen calendar days before the meetmg. The notice
shall state· the date, time, locat10n, and purpose of the meeting and the
location of mformation describing the project for review by the water us-
ers. Sample notice forms will be provided by the Department.
( 4) Obtam a meetmg place of sufficient size and at a convement loca-
tion to accommodate the anticipated attendance.
( c) The agenda of the meeting shall include the following matters: (I)
A discussion of applicable public health and water works standards, ex-
istmg and potential health hazards associated with the water system, how
the proposed project will bnng the system to mmimum health standards,
and alternative solutions to the problem (2) The supplier shall describe
the proposed pro.1ect in detail, using maps, charts, and other illustrative
devices, if appropriate. The discussion shall include the costs, sources of
funds, the amount of the loan-grant commitment, and changes 111 water
costs resulting from the project.
(3) A representative of the State may describe the Act, the State's role
in its admm1strat10n and the Department"s recommcndat10n regardmg
the suppher's loan application. Persons present at the meeting shall be
penmtted to ask questions regarding all subjects discussed at the meet-
ing
( d) If no representative of the Department is present at the meeting, the
supplier shall submit an official wntten report to the Department describ-
ing the meeting and its outcome includmg the results of any vote taken.
Nore Authority cited· Sect10n 13834, Water Code. Reference. Sect10n 13834,
Water Code
§ 489.1. Plans and Specifications.
Before commencing constmction, each Supplier shall provide de-
tailed plans and specifications to the Department of Health Services for
review and approval by a registered Civil Engineer employed by the De-
partment of Health Services. Unless othenvise authonzcd m writmg by
the Department of Health Services, the supplier shall not commence con-
struct10n without written notificat10n from the Department ofHealth Ser-
vices that the plans and specifications have been approved.
NOTE Authority cited: Scct10n 13834, Water Code. Reference: Scct10n 13837,
Water Code.
§ 489.2. Certification of Completion.
Department of Health Services shall mspect the completed project and
1f satisfied that the project has been completed in accordance with ap-
proved plans and specifical!ons, shall provide the supplier and the De-
partment with wntten cerufication to that effect.
NOTE Authonty cited· Section 13834, Water Code. Reference. Section 13834,
Water Code.
Chapter 2.6. Weather Resources
Management [Repealed]
NOTE Authonty cited: Sect10ns 161. 401, 403 and 6078, Water Code Reference:
Sect10ns 401. 402 and 403, Water Code and Sections 21000 et seq .. Public Re-
som ces Code
HISTORY
1 New Subchapter 2 6 (A1t1cles 1-5. Sections 49~95 03, not consecutive) filed
9-28-79, effective th1rt1eth day thereafter (Register 79, No 39)
2 Repealer of Subchaptcr 2 6 (Arncles 1-5, Sections 49~95 03. not consecu-
twc, not prev10usly repealed by OAL Order of Repeal) filed 6-5-86. effective
thJrheth day thereafter (Register 86. No. 23). For puor history, see Register 85,
No. 26; 81, Nos. 40 and 38; and 80. No. 7
Chapter 2.7. Model Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance
§ 490. Purpose.
(a) The State Legislature has found:
( 1) that the waters of the state are oflmuted supply and are subject to
ever increasing demands,
(2) that the continuation of California's economic prosperity 1s depen-
dent on the availabihty of adequate supplies of water for future uses;
(3) that it 1s the pohcy ofthe State to promote the conservation and effi-
cient use of water and to prevent the waste of this valuable resource;
( 4) that landscapes are essential to the quality of life in California by
providing areas for active and passive recreation and as an enhancement
to the environment by cleaning air and water, preventing erosion, offer-
ing fire protection, and replacing ecosystems lost to development;
(5) that landscape design, mstallatton, maintenance and management
can and should be water efficient;
( 6) that Section 2 of Article X of the California Constitution specifies
_ that the right to use water is limited to the ainow1t reasonably reqrnred for
the beneficial use to be served and the right does not and shall not extend
to waste or unreasonable method of use.
(b) Consistent with the legislative fmdings, the purpose of this model
ordinance is to:
( 1) promote the values and benefits oflandscaping practices that mte-
grate and go beyond the conservation and efficient use of water;
(2) establish a structure for planning, des1gmng, installing, mamtain-
ing and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and re-
habihtated projects by encouragmg the use of a watershed approach that
reqrnres cross-sector collaboration of industry, government and proper-
ty owners to achieve the many benefits possible,
(3) establish provisions for water management practices and water
waste prevention for existing landscapes;
( 4) use water efficiently without waste by settmg a Maximum Applied
Water Allowance as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to
the lowest practical amount,
(5) promote the benefits of consistent landscape ordmances with
neighboring local and regional agencies;
(6) encourage local agencies and water purveyors to use economic in-
centives that promote the efficient use of water, such as unplementmg a
tiered-rate structure; and
(7) encourage local agencies to designate the necessary authority that
unplements and enforces the provisions of the Model Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance or 1ls local landscape ordinance.
(c) Landscapes Umt are planned, designed, installed, managed and
mamtained with the watershed based approach can improve California's
environmental cond1t10ns and provide benefits and realize sustainability
goals. Such landscapes will make the urban environment resilient 111 the"
face of chmattc extremes. Consistent with U1e legislative findmgs and
purpose of the Ordinance. conditions in the urban settmg will be im-
proved by:
(1) Creatmg tl1e conditions to support hfe 111 the soil by reducmg com-
paction, incorporating orgamc matter that increases water retent10n, and
promotmg productive plant growth that leads to more carbon storage, ox-
ygen production, shade, habitat and esthetic benefits.
(2) Minnmzing energy use by reducmg 1mgat1on water requirements,
reducing reliance on petroleum based fertilizers and pesticides, and
plantmg climate appropnate shade trees 111 urban areas.
(3) Conservmg water by capturmg and reusmg ramwater and graywa-
ter wherever possible and selecting clnnate appropriate plants that need
mnumal supplemental water after establishment.
( 4) Protectmg mr and water quality by reducmg power equipment use
and landfill disposal tnps, selecting recycled and locally sourced maten-
Page 37 RcgISter 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015 Item 12.a. - Page 11
§ 490.1 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
als, and usmg compost, mulch and efficient irrigat10n eqmpment to pre-
vent erosion.
(5) Protectmg existing habitat and creating new habitat by choosing
local native plants, climate adapted non-natives and avoiding mvasive
plants Utilizing integrated pest management with least toxic methods as
the first course of action
NOTE Authority CJted Secl!on 65593, Government Code; and seet10ns 11and30,
Governor's Exec. Order No B-29-15 (April 1, 2015) Reference. Sec hons 65591.
65593 and 65596, Government Code: and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No
B-29-15 (Apnl I. 2015).
HISTORY
1. New chapter 2.7 (sections 49~95) filed 7-31-92; operative 7-31-92 (Regis-
ter 92, No. 32)
2. Amendment ofseetion and NOTE filed 9-10-2009: operative 9-10-2009 pur-
suant to Govenunent Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37).
3. Amendment of subsectlom, (a)(4) and (b)(l)-(2), new subsect10ns (c)-(c)(5)
and amendment of NOTE filed 9-15-2015, operative 9-15-2015 Exempt from
OAL review and subnutlcd to OAL for printmg only pursuant lo Governor's
Executive Order No B-29-15 (4--1-2015) (Register 2015, No 38).
§ 490.1. Applicability.
(a) After December 1, 2015, and consistent with Executive Order No.
B-29-15, tlus ordmance shall apply to all of the following landscape
projects·
(1) new construcuon projects with an aggregate landscape area equal
to or greater than 500 square feet requiring a buildmg or landscape per-
mit, plan check or design review;
(2) rehabilitated landscape projects with an aggregate landscape area
equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or land-
scape peimit, plan check, or design review;
(3) existing landscapes limited to Sections 493, 493.1 and 493.2: and
( 4) cemetenes. Recognizing the special landscape management needs
of cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to Sections
492.4, 492.11, and 492. 12; and existmg cemeteries are luruted to Sec-
tions 493, 493.1, and 493 2.
(b) For local land use agencies working together to develop a regional
water efficient landscape ordmance, the reporting reqmrements of this
ordinance shall become effective December 1, 2015 and the remamder
of this ordinance shall be effechve no later than Febmaty I, 2016.
( c) Any project with an aggregate landscape area of 2,500 square feet
or less may comply with the pe1fom1ance requirements of this ordinance
or confonn to the prescnptive measures contamed in Appendix D.
( d) For projects using treated or untreated graywater or ram water cap-
tured on site, any lot or parcel within the project that has less than 2500
sq. ft. oflandscape and meet~ the lot or parcel's landscape water reqmre-
ment (Estimated Total Water Use) entirely with treated oruntreated gray-
water or through stored rainwater captured on site is subject only to Ap-
pendix D section (5).
(e) This ordinance does not apply to:
(I) registered local, state or federal historical sites;
(2) ecological restoratJon projects that do not require a pemmnent ir-
ngation system;
(3) mmed-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent
irrigation system; or
(4) existing plant collections, as part ofbotarucal gardens and arbore-
ttuns open to the pubhc.
NOTE. Authority cited Section 65595, Government Code. and sections 11and30,
Governor's Exec Order No B-29-15 (Apnl I, 2015). Reference· Section 65596.
Government Code; and section 11, Governor's Exec Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
1. 2015).
HISTORY
I. New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code sect10n 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37)
2. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015. Ex-
empt from OAL renew and submitted to OAL for pnnting only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4--1-2015) (Reg1ster2015, No. 38).
§ 491. Definitions.
The tem1s used m this ordinance have the meaning set forth below:
(a) "apphed water" means the portion of water supplied by tl1e irriga-
t10n system to the landscape.
(b) "automauc irrigat10n controller" means a timing device used to re-
motely control valves that operate an migation system. Automatic irriga-
tion controllers are able to self-adjust and schedule migation events us-
ing either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or s01l moisture data.
(c) "backflow prevention device" means a safety device used to pre-
vent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse
flow of water from the irrigation system.
(d) "Certificate of Complet1011" means the document required under
Sect10n 492.9. ·
( e) "certified irrigat10n designer" means a person certified to design
irrigation systems by an accredited academic instituhon, a profess10nal
trade organization or other program such as the US Environmental
Protection Agency's WaterSense migation designer certification pro-
gram and Irrigation Association's Certified Irrigation Designer program.
(f) "certified landscape migation auditor'" means a person certified to
perform landscape irrigation audits by an accredited academic mstitu-
t10n, a professional trade orgamzation or other program such as the US
Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense migation auditor certi-
fication program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Ir-
ngation Auditor program.
(g) "check valve" or "anti-dram valve" means a valve located under
a sprinkler head. or other locahon m the irrigat1011 system, to hold water
in the system to prevent dramage from spnnkler heads when the sprinkler
is off. .
(h) "common interest developments" means commumty apartment
projects, condominium projects, planned developments, and stock coop-
eratives per Civil Code Section 1351.
(i) "'compost" means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic
decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plant growth.
(j) "conversion factor (0.62)" means the number that converts acre-
mches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
(k) "distnbutipn uniformity" means the measure of the unifonmty of
irrigation water over a defined area.
({) "drip irrigation" means any non-spray low volume migatwn sys-
tem utilizing emission devices witl1 a flow rate measured in gallons per
hour. Low volume rrngation systems are specifically designed to apply
small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
(m) "ecological restoration project" means a project where the site 1&
mtentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosys-
tem.
(n) "effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall" (Eppt) means the por-
t10n of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.
( o) •·emitter" means a drip irrigat10n emission device that delivers wa-
ter slowly from the system to the soil.
(p) "established landscape" means the point at which plants in the
landscape have developed sigmficant root growth mto the soil. Typical-
ly, most plants arc established after one or two years of growth.
(q) "establishment penod of the plants"' means the first year after
installing the plant in the landscape or the first two years if irrigat10n will
be termmated after establishment. Typically, most plants are established
after one or two years of growth. Native habitat mitigat10n areas and trees
may need tl1ree to five years for establishment.
(r) "Estimated Total Water Use" (ET\VU) means the total water used
for tl1e landscape as descnbed m Section 492.4.
(s) "ET adjustment factor" (ETAF) means a factor of0.55 for residen-
tial areas and 0.45 for non-residential areas, that. when applied to refer-
ence evapotransp1ration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficien-
cy, two major influences upon the amount of water tliat needs to be
applied to the landscape. The ET AF for new and existing (non-rehabili-
tated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ET AF for exist-
ing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
Page 38 Regi.let 2015, No 38, 9-i8-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 12
Title 23 Department of Water Resources § 491
(t) "evapotranspirauon rate" means the quantity of water evaporated
from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a
specified tnne.
(u) "flow rate" means the rate at which water flows through pipes,
valves and em1ss10n deVIces, measured m gallons per minute, gallons per
hour, or cubic feet per second.
(v) "flow sensor" means an inline device mstalled at the supply pomt
of the irrigation system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to
flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to an automatic irrigation con-
troller, or flow monitor capable of receivmg flow signals and operatmg
master valves. This combination flow sensor/controller may also func-
tion as a landscape water meter or submeter.
(w) "friable"' means a soil condit10n that is easily crumbled or loosely
compacted down to a minimum depth per planting material reqmre-
ments, whereby the root strncture of newly planted material will be al-
lowed to spread unimpeded.
(x) "Fuel Modification Plan Gmdcline" means guidelines from a local
fire authority to assist residents and businesses that are developing land
or bmldmg structures m a fire hazard severity zone.
(y) "graywater" means unu·eated wastewater that has not been con-
tammated by any toilet discharge, has not been affected by infect10us,
contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat
from contammation by unhealthful processmg, manufacturing, or oper-
atmg wastes. "Graywater" includes, but 1s not limited to, wastewater
from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing ma-
chine~, and laundry tubs, but does not include wastewater from kitchen
smks or dishwashers. Health and Safety Code Section 17922.12.
(z) "hardscapes" means any durable matenal (perv10us and non-per-
vious).
( aa) "hydrozonc" means a portion of the landscaped area havmg plants
with similar water needs and rooting depth. A hydrozone may be mi-
gated or non-migated.
(bb) "infiltration rate"' means the rate of water entry into the soII ex-
pressed as a depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour)
(cc) "invasive plant species" means species of plants not histoncally
found m California that spread outside cultivated areas and can damage
environmental or economic resources. Invasive species may be regulated
by county agricultural agencies as noxious species. Lists of invasive
plants are mamtained at the California Invasive Plant Inventory and
USDA invasive and noxious weeds database.
( dd) "irrigation audit'" means an 111--depth evaluation of the perfor-
mance of an irrigation system conducted by a Certified Landscape Imga-
tion Auditor. An irrigation audit mcludes, but 1s not lnmted to: mspec-
ilon, system tune-up, system test with distribution urnformity or
emission umforn1ity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland
flow, and preparat10n of an imgat10n schedule. The audit must be con-
ducted ma manner consistent with the Irrigal!on Associat10n's Land-
scape Irrigation Auditor Certification program or other U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency "Waterscnse" labeled auditmg program.
( ee) "imgat10n efficiency" (IE) means the measurement of the amount
of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irriga-
tion efficiency is derived from measmements and estimates of irrigation
system charactenst1cs and management practices. The irrigation effi-
ciency for pm1Joses of this ordinance are 0. 7 5 for overhead spray devices
and 0.81 for drip systems.
(ff) "Irngat10n survey" means an evaluation of an Irngation system
that is less detailed than an 1rrigat10n audit. An irrigation survey mcludes,
but is not limited to: mspection. system test, and wntten recommenda-
tions to improve performance of the Jl'rigat10n system.
(gg) "irrigat10n water use analysis" means an analysis of water use
data based on meter readmgs and billmg data.
(hh) "landscape architect" means a person who holds a license to prac-
tice landscape arclutecture in the state of California Business and Profes-
sions Code. Section 5615.
(ii) "landscape area" means all the planting areas. turf areas, and water
features in a landscape design plan sub.icct to the Maximum Apphcd Wa-
ter Allowance calculation. The landscape area does not mcludc foot-
prints of buildmgs or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots,
decks, pat10s, gravel or stone walks, other perv10us or non-pervious
hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for non-develop-
ment (e.g., open spaces and ex1stmg native vegetation).
Gj) "landscape contractor" means a person licensed by the state of
California to construct, mamtain, repair, install, or subcontract the devel-
opment oflandscape systems
(kk) "Landscape Documentation Package" means the documents re-
qmred under Sect10n 492.3.
(ll) "landscape project" means total area of landscape in a project as
defined in "landscape area" for the purposes of this ordmance, meeting
reqmrements under Section 490.1.
(mm) "landscape water meter" means an inline device installed at the
irrigat10n supply pomt that measmes the flow of water into the irrigation
system and is connected to a totalizer to record water use.
(nn) "lateral line"' means the water delivery pipeline that supplies wa-
ter to the emitters or spnnklers from the valve.
(oo) "local agency" means a city or county, mcludmg a charter city or
charter county, that is responsible for adopting and implementing the or-
dinance. The local agency is also responsible for the enforcement of this
ordinance, mcludmg but not lnmted to, approval of a permit and plan
check or design review of a project.
(pp) "local water purveyor" means any entity, includmg a public
agency, city, county, or pnvate water company that provides retail water
service.
( qq) "low volume irrigat10n" means the application of inigat1on water
at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low-vol-
ume emitters such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low volume miga-
tion systems m·e specifically designed to apply small volumes of water
slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
(rr) ''mam hne'· means the pressunzed p1pclme that delivers water
from the water source to the valve or outlet.
(ss) "master shut-off valve" 1s an automatic valve installed at their-
rigation supply pomt which controls water flow mto the imgation sys-
tem. When tl11s valve 1s closed water will not be supplied to the imgat10n
system A master valve will greatly reduce any water loss due to a leaky
station valve.
(tt) "Maximum Applied Water Allowance"' (MA WA) means the up-
per limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area as
specified in Section 492.4. It 1s based upon the area's reference evapo-
transpiration, the ET Adjustment Factor, and the size of the landscape
area. The Estimated Total Water Use shall not exceed the Maximum Ap-
phed Water Allowance. Special Landscape Areas, mcludmg recreat10n
areas, areas pernmnently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as or-
chards and vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled waler are
subject to U1e MA WA wiU1 an ET AF not to exceed 1.0. MA WA= (ETo)
(0.62) [(ETAF x LA)+ ((1-ETAF) x SLA)]
(uu) "median" is an area between opposing lanes of traffic that may be
unplanted or planted witl1 trees, shrubs, peremuals, and ornamental
grasses.
(vv) "rnicroclimate" means the climate of a small, specific area that
may contrast with the climate of the overall landscape area due to factors
such as wind, sun exposure, plant density, or proximity to reflective sur-
faces.
(ww) "mmed-land reclamation projects" means any surface mmmg
operation with a reclamat10n plan approved in accordance with the Sur-
face Mimng and Reclamation Act of 1975.
(xx) "mulch" means any orgamc matenal such as leaves, bark, straw,
compost, or morganic mineral matenals such as rocks, gravel, or decom-
posed gramte left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial
purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressmg weeds, moderating soil
temperature, and preventmg soil erosion
(yy) "new construct10n" means, for the purposes of this ordmm1ce, a
new buildmg with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park,
playground, or greenbelt without an associated bmldmg.
Page38.1 Reg1Ster2015,1'o 38,9-18-2015 Item 12.a. - Page 13
§ 492 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
(zz) "non-residential landscape" means landscapes in commercial,
institutional, industrial and pubhc settmgs that may have areas desig-
nated for recreation or pub he assembly It also rncludes portions of com-
mon areas of common interest developments with designated recreation-
al areas.
(aaa) '·operating pressure" means the pressure at which the parts of an
irrigat10n system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.
(bbb) "overhead sprmkler 1mgation systems" or "overhead spray ir-
rigation systems" means systems that deliver water through the air (e.g.,
spray heads and rotors).
(ccc) "overspray" means the irrigation water which is delivered be-
yond the target area
(ddd) "parkway" means the area between a sidewalk and the curb or
traffic lane. lt may be planted or unplanted,~ and with or without pedes-
trian egress.
(eee) "permit" means an authorizing document issued by local agen-
cies for new constmction or rehabilitated landscapes.
(fff) "perv10us"' means any surface or matenal that allows the passage
of water through the matenal and into the underlying soil.
(ggg) "plant factor" or "plant water use factor" is a factor, when multi-
plied by ETo, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For pur-
poses of this ordinance, the plant factor range for very low water use
plants is 0 to 0.1, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0.1 to
0.3, the plant factor range for moderate water use plants is 0.4 to 0 6, and
the plant factor range for high wateruse plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors
cited in this ordmance are denved from the publication "Water Use Clas-
sification of Landscape Species". Plant factors may also be obtained
from horhcultural researchers from acadenuc rnstitutions or professional
associations as approved by the California Department of Water Re-
sources (DWR).
(hhh) "project applicant" means the individual or entity submitting a
Landscape Documentation Package required under Section 492.3, to re-
quest a permit, plan check, or design review from the local agency. A
project applicant may be the property owner or his or her designee.
(iii) "rain sensor" or "rain sensmg shutoff device" means a component
winch automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.
UjJ) "record drawing" or "as-builts" means a set ofreproducible draw-
ings which show sigmficant changes 111 the work made during construc-
tion and which are usually based on drawings marked up m the field and
other data furnished by the contractor.
(kkk) "recreational area" means areas, excludmg pnvate single family
residenual areas, designated for active play. recreation or public assem-
bly 111 parks, sports fields, picnic grounds, amphitheaters or golf course
tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens.
(Ill) "recycled water," "reclaimed water," or "treated sewage effluent
water" means treated or recycled waste water of a quality suitable for
nonpotable uses such as landscape rrrigat10n and water features. This wa-
ter is not intended for human consumpt10n.
(mmm) "reference evapotransp1ration" or "ETo" means a standard
measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of
plants. ETo is expressed in inches per day, month. or year as represented
in Appendix A, and is an estimate of the evapotransp1rat1on of a large
field of four-to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that 1s well watered.
Reference evapotranspirat10n 1s used as the basis of detennmmg the
Maximum Apphed Water Allowances so that regional differences in cli-
mate can be acc01mnodated.
(nun) "Regional Water Efficient Landscape Ordmance" means a local
Ordinance adopted by two or more local agencies, water suppliers and
other stakeholders for implementing a consistent set oflandscape provi-
sions throughout a geograplucal region Regional ordinances are strong-
ly encouraged to provide a consistent framework for the landscape indus-
try and applicants to adhere to.
( ooo) "rehab1htated landscape" meai1s any re landscaping project that
requires a permit, plan check, or design review, meets the requirements
of Section 490.1, and the modified landscape area is equal to or greater
than 2,500 square feet.
(ppp) "residential landscape" means landscapes surrounding single or
multifamily homes
( qqq) "mn off' means water which is not absorbed by the soil or land-
scape to winch 1t is app Lied and flows from the landscape area. For exam-
ple, mn off may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (apph-
cation rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a slope.
(rrr) "soil moisture sensing device" or "soil moisture sensor" means
a device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may
also suspend or mitiate an irrigation event.
(sss) "soil texture" means the classification of soil based on its percent-
age of sand, silt, and clay.
(ttt) "Special Landscape Arca" (SLA) means an area of the landscape
dedicated solely to edible plants, rccreat10nal areas, areas migated \Vi th
recycled water, or water features usmg recycled water.
(uuu) "spnnkler head" or "spray head" means a device which delivers
water through a nozzle.
(vvv) '·static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water
supply pressure when water is not flowmg.
(www) "station" means an area served by one valve or by a set of
valves that operate srmultaneously.
(xxx) "swing Joint" means an irrigation component that provides a
flexible, leak-free connection between the emission device and lateral
pipeline to allow movement m any direction and to prevent eqmpment
damage.
(yyy) "submeter" means a metering device to measure water apphed
to the landscape that is installed after the primary utihty water meter.
(zzz) "turf' means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual
bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Perenmal ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall
fescue are cool-season grasses. Bennudagrass, Kikuyugrass, Seashore
Paspall!lll, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Buffalo grass are warm-
scason grasses.
(aaaa) "valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the
irngation system
(bbbb) "water conserving plant species" means a plant species identi-
fied as having a very low or low plant factor.
( cccc) "water feature" means a design element where open water per-
forms an aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds,
lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools
(where water is artificially supplied). The surface area of water features
is included in the ]ugh water use hydrozone of the landscape area.
Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment or stormwa-
ter best management practices that are not imgated and used solely for
water treatment or stormwaterretention are not water features and, there-
fore, are not subject to the water budget calculation.
( dddd) "watering window" means the time of day imgation is allowed.
(eeee) "WUCOLS" means the Water Use Classification of Landscape
Species published by the University ofCaliforma Cooperative Extension
ai1d the Department of Water Resources 2014.
NOTE. Authority cited: Section 65595, Government Code, and sections 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (April 1, 2015). Reference: Secl!ons 65592
and 65596, Government Code, and scc(ion 11, Governor's Exec. Order No
13-29-15 (April 1. 2015).
HlSTORY
1. New section filed 7-31-92. operative 7-31-92 (Register 92, No 32).
2. Amendment of section and Norn filed 9-10-2009, operative 9-10-2009 pur-
suant to Government Code sect10n 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37).
3. Amendment ofsect10n and Norn filed 9-15-2015, operative 9-15-2015 Ex-
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for pnntmg only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4--1-2015) (Reg1ster2015, No. 38)
§ 492. Provisions for New Construction or Rehabilitated
Landscapes.
(a) A local agency may designate by mutual agreement, another
agency, such as a water purveyor, to implement some or all of the require-
ments contained in tlus ordinance. Local agencies may collaborate with
water purveyors to define each entity's specific responsibilities relating
to this ordinance
NOTE Authonty cited: Secllon 65595. Government Code, and sect10ns 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl !, 2015). Reference. Section 65596,
Page38.2 Reg1ste1 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 14
Title 23 Department of Water Resources § 492.5
Government Code; and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
I. 2015).
HISTORY
1. New sect10n filed 7-31-92; operative 7-31-92 (Register 92, No. 32).
2 Amendment of sect10n heading, repealer and new sect1011 and amendment of
NOTE filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government Code
section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No 37).
3 Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015. operative 9-15-2015. Ex-
empt from OAL review and subnutted to OAL for printing only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No B-29-15 (4-l-2015)(Reg1ster2015,No 38).
§ 492.1. Compliance with Landscape Documentation
Package.
(a) Prior to construction, the local agency shall:
( 1) provide the project applicant with the ordinance and procedures for
permits, plan checks or design reviews;
(2) review the Landscape Documentation Package submitted by the
project applicant;
(3) approve or deny the Landscape Documentation Package;
(4) issue a pem1it or approve the plan check or design review for the
project applicant; and
(5) upon approval of the Landscape Documentation Package, submit
a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape W orkshcet to the local water
purveyor.
(b) Prior to construction, the project applicant shall:
(1) submit a Landscape Documentation Package to the local agency.
(c) Upon approval of the Landscape Documentation Package by the
local agency, the pro.iect applicant shall:
(1) receive a pennit or approval of the plan check or design review and
record the date of the permit m the Certificate of Completion;
(2) submit a copy of the approved Landscape Documentation Package
along with the record drawings, and any o lher mformation to the property
owner or his/her designee; and
(3) submit a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet to the
local water purveyor.
NOTE Aulhonly cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference. Section
65596, Govennnent Code.
HISlORY
1. New section filed 9-10-2009, operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No 37).
§ 492.2. Penalties.
(a) A local agency may establish and administer penalties to the proj-
ect applicant for non-compliance with the ordinance to the extent per-
mitted by law.
NOTE Authonty cited: Section 65595. Government Code. Reference Section
65596, Government Code.
HISTORY
I. New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant lo Government
Code sect10n 11343 4 (Register 2009, No. 37).
§ 492.3. Elements of the Landscape Documentation
Package.
(a) The Landscape Documentation Package shall mclude the follow-
ing six (6) elements.
( 1) project rnfom1ation;
(A) date
(B) project applicant
(C) project address (1f available, parcel and/or lot number(s))
(D) total landscape area (square feet)
(E) project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery,
homeowner-installed)
(F) water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the lo-
cal retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well
(G) checklist of all documents in Landscape Documentat10n Package
(H) project contacts to mclude contact information for the project ap-
plicant and property owner
(I) applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with
the requirements of the water efficient landscape ordinance and submit
a complete Landscape Documentat10n Package".
(2) Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet;
(A) hydrozone information table
(B) water budget calculations
1. Maximwn Applied Water Allowance (MA WA)
2. Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU)
(3) soil management report;
(4) landscape design plan;
(5) irrigation design plan; and
( 6) gradmg design plan.
NOTE-Authonty cited. Sect10n 65595, Government Code. Reference. Scct10n
65596, Government Code
HISTORY
I. New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code sect10n 11343 4 (Register 2009. No. 37).
§ 492.4. Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
(a) A project applicant shall complete the Water Efficient Landscape
Worksheet in Appendix B which contains mformation on the plant fac-
tor, irngation method, irrigation efficiency, and area associated with
each hydrozone. Calculations are then made to show that U1e evapotran-
spiration adjustment factor (ET AF) for the landscape project docs not ex-
ceed a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for non-rcs1dent1.al
areas, exclusive of Special Landscape Areas The ET AF for a landscape
project is based on the plant factors and irrigation methods selected. The
Maximum Applied Water Allowance is calculated based on the maxi-
mum ETAF allowed (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for non-residen-
tial areas) and expressed as annual gallons required. The Estimated Total
Water Use (ETWU) 1s calculated based on the plants used and irrigation
method selected for the landscape design. ETWU must be below the
MAWA.
(1) In calculating the Maximum Applied Water Allowance and Esti-
mated Total Water Use, a project applicant shall use the ETo values from
the Reference Evapotransp1rat10n Table in Appendix A. For geographic
areas not covered in Appendix A, use data from other cities located
nearby in the same reference evapotranspiralion zone, as found m the
CIMIS Reference Evapolranspiration Zones Map, Department of Water
Resources, 1999.
(b) Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following require-
ments:
( 1) The plant factor used shall be from WU COLS or from horticultural
researchers with academic institutions or profess10nal associat10ns asap-
proved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). The
plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.1 for very low water using plants, 0.1 to
0.3 for low water use plants, from 0 .4 to 0.6 for moderate water use plants,
and from 0. 7 to 1.0 for high water use plants.
(2) All water features shall be included m the lugh wateruse hydrozone
and temporarily irrigated areas shall be mcluded in the low water use hy-
drozone
(3) All Special Landscape Areas shall be identified and their water use
calculated as shown in Appendix B.
(4) ETAF fornew and exislmg (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape
Areas shall not exceed l 0.
NOTE Authonty cited. Section 65595. Government Code; and sect10ru. 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec Order No B-29-15 (April 1, 2015). Reference· Section 65596,
Government Code, and section 11. Governor's Exec Order No B-29-15 (April
1, 2015)
HISTORY
l. New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section I 1343 4 (Register 2009. No. 37).
2. Amendment of sect10n and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015. Ex-
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for pnntmg only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015, No. 38).
§ 492.5. Soil Management Report.
(a) In order to reduce nm off and encow·age healthy plant growth, a soil
management report shall be completed by the pro.iect applicant, or his/her
des1gnee, as follows:
(I) Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommenda-
tions.
Page38.3 Register 2015. No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 15
§ 492.6 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
(A) Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory
protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the
intended plants.
(B) The soil analysis shall mclude:
1. soil texture;
2. infiltration rate determmed by laboratory test or soil texture infiltra-
tion rate table;
3.pH;
4. total soluble salts;
5. sodium;
6. percent organic matier; and
7. recommendations.
(C) In projects with multiple landscape mstallations (i.e. production
home developments) a soil sampling rate of 1 in 7 lots or approximately
15% will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample
at a rate eqmvalent to l m 7 lots.
(2) The project applicant, or ]us/her designee, shall comply with one
of the followmg:
(A) If significant mass gradmg is not planned, the soil analysis report
shall be submitted to the local agency as part of the Landscape Docwnen-
tation Package; or
(B) If s1gmficant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall
be submitted to the local agency as part of the Certificate of Completion
(3) The soil analysis report shall be made available. in a timely manner,
to the profess10nals prepanng the landscape design plans and migation
design plans to make any necessary adjustments to the design plans.
( 4) The project applicant, or his/her de~ignee, shall submit documenta-
tJon verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendat10ns
to the local agency with Certificate of Completion.
NOTE Authority cited: Sect101165595, Government Code; and sections 11and30,
Governor's Exec. Order No. 13-29-15 (April I, 2015). Reference· Section 65596.
Government Code; and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No B-29-15 (Apnl
1. 2015)
HISTORY
l. New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code qect10n 11343.4 (Register 2009. No. 37).
2 Amendment of subsect10n (a )(I )(B). new subsection ( a)(l )(C) and amendment
of NOTE filed 9-15-2015, operative 9-15-2015 Exempt from OAL review and
submitted to OAL for prmtmg only pursuant to Governor's Executive Order No.
B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015, No. 38).
§ 492.6. Landscape Design Plan.
(a) For the efficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefully de-
signed and planned for the intended function of the project. A landscape
design plan meetmg the following design criteria shall be submitted as
part of the Landscape Documentat10n Package.
(1) Plant Matenal
(A) Any plant may be selected for the landscape, providing the Esti-
mated Total Water Use m the landscape area does not exceed the Maxi-
mum Apphed Water Allowance. Methods to achieve water efficiency
shall include one or more of the following:
1. protect10n and preservation of native species and natural vegetation;
2. selection of water-conserving plant, tree and turf species, especially
local nal!ve plants:
3. select10n of plants based on local climate suitabihty, disease and
pest resistance;
4. selection of trees based on applicable local tree ordinances or tree
shading guidelines, and size at maturity as appropnate for the plantmg
area; and
5. selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant
lists.
6. selection of plants from local Fuel Modificat10n Plan Guidelines.
(B) Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use,
with the exception ofhydrozones with p !ants of mixed water use, as spe-
cified m Section 492.7(a)(2)(D)
(C) Plants shall be selected and planted appropriately based upon the1r
adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the
project site. Methods to acluevc water efficiency shall include one or
more of the following:
l. use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System which takes into ac-
count temperature, humidity, elevation. terrain, latitude, and varying de-
grees of continental and marine influence on local climate;
2. recognize the horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant
size, mvasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or mfra-
structure [ e.g , bmldmgs, sidewalks, power lines]; allow farad equate soil
volume for healthy root growth; and
3. consider the solar orientat10n for plant placement to maximize sum-
mer shade and winter solar gain.
(D) Turfis not allowed on slopes greater than 25% where the toe of the
slope is adjacent to an impenneable hardscape and where 25% means I
foot of vertical elevation change for every 4 feet of horizontal length (rise
divided by run x I 00 = slope percent).
(E) High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of0.7 to 1.0,
are prohibited m street medians.
(F) A landscape design plan for projects in fire--prone areas shall ad-
dress fire safety and prevention. A defensible space or zone around a
buildmg or structure is required per Public Resow·ces Code Section
4291 (a) and (b ). A void fire--prone plant matenals and lughly flammable
mulches. Refer to the local Fuel Modification Plan guidelines.
(G) 111e use of mvasive plant species, such as those listed by the
California Invasive Plant Council. 1s strongly discouraged.
(H) The architectural guidelines of a common interest development,
which include commumty apartment projects, condommiums, planned
developments, and stock cooperatives, shall not prohibit or mclude
conditions that have the effect of prohibiting the use of low-water use
plants as a group.
(2) Water Features
(A) Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.
(B) Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for deco-
rative water features
(C) Surface area of a water feature shall be included 111 the high water
use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation.
(D) Pool and spa covers are lughly recommended.
(3) Soil Preparation, Mulch and Amendments
(A) Pnor to the planting of any matenals, compacted soils shall be
transformed to a fnable condition On engineered slopes, only amended
planting holes need meet this reqmrement.
(B) Soil amendments shall be incorporated accordmg to recommenda-
llons of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected (see
Section 492.5).
( C) For landscape installations, compost at a rate of a mmimwn of four
cubic yards per 1,000 square feet of penneable area shall be incorporated
to a depth of six inches into the soil. Soils with greater than 6% organic
matter in the top 6 rnches of soil are exempt from adding compost and
till mg.
(D) A mm1mum three mch (3") layer of mulch shall be applied on all
exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except m tmf areas, creeping or
rootmg groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is con-
traindicated. To provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife,
up to 5 % of the landscape area may be left without mulch. Designated
mscct habitat must be mcluded 111 the landscape design plan as such.
(E) Stabilizing mulchmg products shall be used on slopes that meet
current engmeering standards.
(F) The mulchmg portion of the seed/mulch slurry m h-ydro-seeded
applications shall meet the mulching requirement.
(G) Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer
shall take precedence over morganic matenals or virgin forest products
unless the recycled post-consumer orgamc products are not locally avail-
able. Organic mulches are not reqmred where prohibited by local Fuel
Modification Plan Guidelines or other applicable local ordinances.
(b) The landscape design plan, at a minimum, shall:
Page 38.4 Rcg1ster2015,No 38,9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 16
Title 23 Department of Water Resources § 492.7
(1) delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other
method;
(2) identify each hydrozone as low, moderate, high water, or mixed
water use. Temporarily migated areas of the landscape shall be mcluded
in the low water use hydrozone for the water budget calculation;
(3) identify recreation,al areas;
(4) identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants;
(5) identify areas imgated with recycled water;
(6) identify type of mulch and applicatrnn depth;
(7) identify soil amendments, type, and quantity;
(8) identify type and surface area of water features;
(9) identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious);
(10) identify location, installat10n details, and 24-hour retention or m-
filtrat1on capacity of any applicable stonnwater best management prac-
tices that encourage on-site retention and mfiltration of stom1water.
Proj6ct applicants shall refer to the local agency or regional Water Quali-
ty Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater technical
requirements. Stonnwater best management practices are encouraged in
the landscape design plan and examples are provided m Section 492.16
( 11) identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies
as discussed 111 Sect10n 492.16 and their 24-hour retention or infiltrat10n
capacity;
(12) identify any applicable graywater discharge piping, system com-
ponents and area(s) of distribution;
(13) contam the following statement: "I have complied with the cnte-
na of the ordinance and apphed them for the efficient use of water in the
landscape design plan"'; and
( 14) bear tl1e signature of a licensed landscape arc hi lect, licensed land-
scape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape.
(See Sections 5500.1, 5615, 5641. 5641.1, 5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4,
5641.5, 5641.6, 6701, 7027 .5 of the Business and Professions Code, Sec-
t10n 832.27 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Sect10n
6721 of the Food and Agriculture Code.).
NOTE Authonty ctted · Sec lion 6559 5. Government Code; and sections 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec Order No B-29-15 (Aprill, 2015) Reference. Sechon 65596,
Government Code; Section 1351, C1v1l Code, and secl!on 11, Governor's Exec
Order No B-29-15 (April I, 2015).
HISTORY
1 New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343 4 (Register 2009, No 37)
2. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015 Ex-
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for printing only pursuant !o
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4--1-2015) (Registcr2015, No 38)
§ 492.7. Irrigation Design Plan.
(a) This sect1011 applies to landscaped areas reqmring permanent ir-
rigation, not areas that require temporary irrigat10n solely for the plant
establishment period. For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system
shall meet all the requirements listed in this section and the manufactur-
ers' recommendations. The imgat10n system and its related components
shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, manage-
ment, and mamtenanee. An migation design plan meeting the following
design cnteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape Documenta-
tion Package.
(I) System
(A) Landscape water meters, defined as either a dedicated water ser-
vice meter or pnvate submeter, shall be installed for all non-residential
in·igatedlandscapes ofl,000 sq. ft. but not more than 5,000 sq.ft. (the lev-
el at which Water Code 535 applies) and residential irrigated landscapes
of 5,000 sq. ft. or greater. A landscape water meter may be either:
l a customer service meter dedicated to landscape use provided by the
local water purveyor; or
2. a privately owned meter or submeter.
(B) AutomaLic irrigation controllers utilizmg either evapotranspira-
tion or soil m01sture sensor data utilizing non-volatile memory shall be
required for irrigation scheduling in all rrrigat10n systems.
(C) If the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pres-
sure of the specified irrigation devices, the mstallation of a pressure regu-
lating device is required to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each enus-
s10n device is withm the manufacturer's recommended pressure range
for optimal perfonnance.
1 If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pres-
sure of the migation system, pressure-regulating devices such as mlme
pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be mstalled to
meet the required dynamic pressure of the migation system.
2. Static water pressure. dynamic or operating pressure, and flow read-
ing of the water supply shall be measured at the point of connection.
These pressure and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design
stage. Iftl1e measurements are not available at the design stage, the mea-
surements shall be conducted at installat10n.
(D) Sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.), either integral or auxihaty, that
suspend or alter imgation operation during unfavorable weather condi-
tions shall be reqmred on all ungation systems, as appropriate for local
climatic conditions. Imgation should be avoided during windy or freez-
ing weather or during rain.
(E) Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butter-
fly valve) shall be reqmred, as close as possible to the pomt of connection
of the water supply, to mml111ize water loss in case ofan emergency (such
as a main lme break) or routine repair.
(F) Back flow prevent10n devices shall be required to protect the water
supply from contammat10n by the irrigation system. A project applicant
shall refer to the applicable local agency code (i.e., public health) for
additional backflow prevention requirements.
(G) Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system
damage or malfunction are required for all on non-residential landscapes
and residential landscapes of 5000 sq. ft. or larger.
(H) Master shut-off valves are required on all projects except land-
scapes that make use of technologies that allow for the individual control
of spnnklers that are individually pressurized in a system equipped with
low pressure shut down features.
(I) The im gation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head
dramage, overspray, or other similar conditions where inigation water
flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, non-imgated
areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures.
(J) Relevant infommtlon from the soil management plan, such as s01!
type and infiltration rate, shall be utilized when desigmng irrigat10n sys-
tems
(K) The design of the 1mgation system shall conform to the hydro-
zones of the landscape design plan.
(L) The migation system must be designed and installed to meet, at a
mm1mum, the irrigation efficiency criteria as described in Section 492.4
regarding the Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
(M) All imgation emission devices must meet the requirements set in
the Ameiiean National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American
Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers'/Intemational Code
Council's (ASABE/lCC) 802-2014 "Landscape Irrigation Spnnklcr and
Enutter Standard, All spnnklcr heads installed in the landscape must doc-
ument a distnbut1011 uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the
protocol defined m ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
(N) It 1s highly recommended tlmt the project applicant or local agency
inqmre with the local water purveyor about peak water operating de-
mands (on the water supply system) or water restrictions that may impact
the effectiveness of the irrigation system.
(0) In mulched plantmg areas, the use oflow voltl111e irrigation is re-
qmred to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
(P) Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched
precip1tat10n rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufactw·er's rec-
ommendations
(Q) Head to head coverage is recommended. However, sprinkler spac-
ing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible distribution umfor-
mity using the manufacturer's recommendations.
(R) SwmgJomts or other riser-protect10n components are required on
all risers subject to damage that are adjacent to hardscapes or 111 !ugh traf-
fic areas of turfgrass.
Page38.5 Register 2015, Ko 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 17
§ 492.8 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
(S) Check valves or anti-dram valves are required on all sprinkler
heads where low pomt drainage could occur.
(T) Areas less than ten ( l 0) feet in width in any direction shall be irri-
gated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff
or overspray.
(U) Overhead irrigation shall not be penmtted within 24 inches of any
non-penneable surface. Allowable irriga1Ion within the setback from
non-permeable surfaces may include dnp, drip line, or other low flow
non-spray technology. The setback area may be planted or unplanted.
The surfacmg of the setback may be mulch, gravel, or other porous mate-
nal These restrictions may be modified if:
1. the landscape area is adjacent to penneable surfacing and no runoff
occurs; or
2. the adjacent non-pcnncable smfaces are designed and constructed
to drain entirely to landscapmg; or
3. the irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology,
as part of the Landscape Documentation Package and clearly demon-
strates stnct adherence to irrigation system design criteria m Sect10n
492.7 (a)(l)(l). Prevention ofoverspray and nmoffmust be confirmed
during the imgat10n audit.
(V) Slopes greater than 25% shall not be irrigated with an irngat1011
system with a application rate exceedmg 0.75 inches per hour. Tlus re-
striction may be modified if the landscape designer specifies an alterna-
tive design or technology, as part of the Landscape Documentation Pack-
age, and clearly demonstrates no runoff or erosion will occur. Prevention
of runoff and erosion must be confirmed dming the migation audit.
(2) Hydrozone
(A) Each valve shall migate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, sun
exposure, soil conditions, and plant materials with similar water use.
(B) Sprmkler heads and other emission devices shall be selected based
on what is appropriate for the plant type within that hydrozonc.
(C) Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from
shmbs, groundcovers, and tmf to facilitate the appropnate migation of
trees. The mature size and extent of the root zone shall be considered
when des1gnmg irrigation for the tree.
(D) Individual hydrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water
use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if
1. plant factor calculation 1s based on the proport10ns of the respective
plant water uses and their plant factor; or
2. the plant factor of the lugher water using plant is used for calcula-
tions.
(E) Individual hydrozones that mix lugh and low water use plants shall
not be pem1itted.
(F) On the landscape design plan and migation design plan, hydrozone
areas shall be designated by number, letter, or other designat10n. On the
imgation design plan, designate the areas 1mgated by each valve, and as-
sign a number to each valve. Use this valve number in the Hydrozone In-
fonnation Table (see Appendix B Sect10n A). This table can also assist
with the irrigation audit and programming the controller.
(b) Tl1c imgation design plan, at a minimmn, shall contaill"
( 1) locat10n and size of separate water meters for landscape;
(2) locat10n, type and size of all components of the irrigation system,
including controllers, mam and lateral Imes, valves, sprinkler heads,
moisture sens mg deVJces, rain switches. qrnck couplers, pressure regula-
tors, and backflow prevent10n devices;
(3) static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water
supply;
(4) flow rate (gallons per mmute), apphcatton rate (inches per hour),
and design operating pressure (pressme per square inch) for each station;
(5) recycled water irrigation systems as specified m Section 492.14,
(6) the following statement: "I have complied with the cntena of the
ordinance and applied them accordmgly for the efficient use of water in
the imgation design plan"; and
(7) the signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation
designer. hcensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized
to design an irrigation system. (See Sections 5500.1, 5615, 5641, 5641.1,
5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5, 5641.6, 6701. 7027.5 of the Busmess
and Professions Code, Section 832.27 ofT1tlel 6 of the California Code
of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the Food and Agricultural Code.)
NOTE. Authority cited Section 65595. Government Code; and sect10ns 11 and 30.
Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl 1, 2015). Referen~e. Section 65596,
Government Code; and sect1011 11. Governor's Exec. Order No B-29-15 (April
1, 2015)
HISTORY
1. New sect10n filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37)
2. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015 Ex-
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for pnnting only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register2015, No. 38)
§ 492.8. Grading Design Plan.
(a) For the efficient use of water, grading of a project site shall be de-
signed to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste. A grading plan
shall be submitted as part of the Landscape Docmnentation Package. A
comprehensive gradmg plan prepared by ·a civil engineer for other local
agency pe1mits satisfies this requirement.
(1) The project applicant shall submit a landscape grading plan that in-
dicates finished configurations and elevations of the landscape area in-
cluding·
(A) height of graded slopes;
(B) drainage patterns;
(C) pad elevations;
(D) finish grade; and
(E) stormwater retent10n improvements. if apphcable.
(2) To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, 1t ts highly recommended
that project app!Jcants:
(A) grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remams w1thm prop-
erty Imes and does not drain on to non-permeable hardscapes;
(B) avoid disruption of natural dramage patterns and undisturbed soil;
and
(C) avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.
(3) The grading design plan shall contain the following statement: "I
have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and apphed them accord-
ingly for the efficient use of water in the grading design plan" and shall
bear the signature of a licensed professional as authonzed by law.
NOTE Authority cited Section 65595, Government Code Reference. Sect1011
65596. Government Code.
HISTORY
1. New sect10n filed 9-10-2009. operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37)
§ 492.9. Certificate of Completion.
(a) The Certificate of Completion (see Appendix C for a sample certif-
icate) shall mclude the following six (6) elements:
(1) project mfonnation sheet that contains:
(A) date;
(B) project name;
(C) project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address;
(D) project address and location; and
(E) property owner name, telephone, and mailing address;
(2) certification by either the signer of the landscape design plan, the
signer of the migat10n design plan, or the licensed landscape contractor
that the landscape project bas been installed per the approved Landscape
Docmnentation Package;
(A) where there have been significant changes made in the field during
conslmction, these "as-bmlt" or record drawmgs shall be included with
the certification;
(B) A diagram of the irrigation plan showmg hydrozones shall be kept
with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes.
(3) imgation scheduling parameters used to set the controller (see Sec-
tion 492 10);
(4) landscape and irrigat10n maintenance schedule (see Section
492.11);
(5) irngation audit report (see Section 492.12); and
Page38.6 Registet 2015, No 38. 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 18
Title 23 Department of \Vater Resources § 492.13
(6) soil analysis report, if not submitted with Landscape Docwnenta-
t10n Package, and documentation verifymg 1mplementat1on of sot! report
recommendations (sec Section 492.5).
(b) The project applicant shall:
(I) subnut the signed Certificate of Completion to the local agency for
review;
(2) ensure that copies of the approved Certificate of Completion are
submitted to the local water purveyor and property owner or his or her
designee.
(c) The local agency shall:
( 1) receive the signed Certificate of Completion from the project appli-
cant;
(2) approve or deny the Certificate ofComplet10n. If the Certificate of
Completion is denied, the local agency shall provide mformat10n to the
pro.1cct applicant regardmg reapplication, appeal, or other assistance.
Non. Authority cited Section 65595. Government Code, and sect10ns 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl 1, 2015). Reference· Section 65596,
Government Code; and secl!on 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
1, 2015)
H!S10RY
J. New section filed 9-10-2009: operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37).
2 New subsccl!on (a)(2)(B) and amendment ofNOTE filed 9-15-2015· operal!ve
9-15-2015. Exempt from OAL revww and subnutted to OAL for pr:n1mg only
pursuant to Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15' (4-1-2015) (Register
2015, No 38).
§ 492.10. Irrigation Scheduling.
(a) For the efficient use of water, all imgat10n schedules shall be devel-
oped, managed, and evaluated to utilize the mmimum amount of water
required to mamtam plant health. Imgation schedules shall meet the fol-
lowmg criteria:
(I) Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic imgation
controllers.
(2) Overhead migalton shall be scheduled between 8:00 p.m. and
1 O·OO a.m. unless weather conditions prevent it. If allowable hours of Ir-
rigation differ from the local water purveyor, the stricter ofil1e two shall
apply Operation of the migation system outside the normal watenng
wmdow 1s allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
(3) For implemcntat10n of the imgation schedule, particular attention
must be paid to Irrigation run times, cil1!ssion device, flow rate, and cur-
rent reference evapotranspiration, so that applied water meets the Esti-
mated Total Water Use Total annual applied water shall be less than or
equal to Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAW A). Actual nnga-
tion schedules shall be regulated by automatic imgat10n controllers us~ng
current reference evapotransp1rat10n data (e.g., CIMIS) or soil moisture
sensor data
( 4) Parameters used to set the automatic controller shall be developed
and submitted for each of the following:
(A) the plant establishment penod;
(B) the established landscape; and
(C) tempormily Irrigated areas.
(5) Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the
following that apply:
(A) irrigation mterval (days between Irrigation);
(B) irrigation nm times (hours or minutes per 1mgation event to avoid
rw10ff);
(C) number of cycle starts reqmred for each irrigation event to av01d
nm off:
(D) amount of applied water scheduled to be applied on a monthly ba-
sis;
(E) application rate setting;
(F) root depth settmg;
(G) plant type settmg;
(H) soil type;
(I) slope factor settmg;
(J) shade factor settmg; and
(K) imgation uniformity or efficiency setting.
NOTE Authority cited: Sect10n 65595, Government Code. Reference: Sect10n
65596, Government Code.
HISTORY
1 New sect10n filed 9-10-2099, operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No 37)
§ 492.11. Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule.
(a) Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A
regular maintenance schedule shall be subnutted with the Certificate of
Complet10n.
(b) A regular maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited
to, routme ~nspection; auditing. adjustment and repair of the imgat1on
system and its components; aeratmg and dethatching turf areas; topdress-
mg with compost, replemshing mulch; fert1hzing, pruning; weeding in
all landscape areas, and removing obstructions to en11ss10n devices. Op-
eration of the imgation system outside the nomml watenng wmdow 1s
allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
. ( c) Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally
mstalled components or their equivalents or with components with great-
er efficiency.
(d) A pro.1cct apphcant is encouraged to implement established land-
scape mdustry sustamable Best Practices for all landscape mamtenance
activities.
NOTE A~thonty cited· Section 65595, Government Code, and section5 11 and 30,
Governor s Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl l, 2015) Reference. Sect10n 65596,
Government Code; and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
1, 2015).
HISTORY
1. New section filed 9-10-2009; operatn e 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343 4 (Register 2009, No. 37). -
2. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015. E~
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for pnntmg only pursuant to
Governor'sExceutlveOrdCJ No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Registcr2015, No.38)
§ 492.12. Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey, and Irrigation
Water Use Analysis.
(a) All landscape migat10n audits shall be conducted by a local agency
landscape irrigation auditor or a tlmd party certified landscape 1mgat1on
auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who de-
signed the landscape or installed the landscape.
(b) In large projects or pro.1ects with multiple landscape mstallations
(i.e. production home developments) an auditing rate of I m 7 lots or
approximately 15% will satisfy tlus requirement
( c) For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed
after December 1, 2015, as described in Sectmn 490.1 ·
(I) the project applicant shall submit an migation audit report with the
Certificate ofCompletmn to the local agency that may rnclude, but is not
hm1ted to: inspect10n, system tune-up, system test with distribut10n uni-
fonmty, reporting overspray or mn offtliat causes overland flow. and
preparation of an irrigation schedule, including configuring img~tion
controllers with application rate, soil types, plant factors. slope, exposure
and any other factors necessary for accurate programming;
(2) the local agency shall admimster programs that may mclude, but
not be limited to, inigation water use analysis, imgation audits, and ir-
rigation surveys for compliance with the Maximum Apphed Water Al-
lowance.
NOTE Authority cited· Section 65595. Government Code· andsect10m, 11 and30
Governor'> Exec Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl I, 2015) Reference· Section 65596;
Government Code, and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
I, 2015).
HISTORY
1. New sect10n filed 9-10-2009, operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code secl!on 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37)
2. Amendment ofsect10n and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015. Ex-
empt from OAL review and submllted to OAL for pnntmg only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Reg1ster2015, No 38).
§ 492.13. Irrigation Efficiency.
(a) For the purpose of determining Estimated Total Water Use, aver-
age migatmn efficiency is assumed to be 0. 7 5 for overhead spray devices
and 0.81 for dnp system devices.
NOTE· Authority cited Section 65595, Government Code: and secllons 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl 1, 2015) Reference: Sect10n 65596,
Page38.7 Register 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 19
§ 492.14 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
Government Code, and sect10n 11, Governor's Exec. Order No B-29-15 (April
1. 2015).
HISTORY
I. New section filed 9-10-2009, operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343 4 (Register 2009, No. 37)
2. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015 Ex-
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for pnntmg only pursuant to
Governor'sExecutJYe Order No B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register2015, No. 38).
§ 492.14. Recycled Water.
(a) The installat10n ofrecycled water migation systems shall allow for
the current and future use of recycled water.
(b) All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and oper-
ated in accordance with all applicable local and State laws.
( c) Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Land-
scape Areas. The ET Adjustment Factor for new and existing (non-reha-
bilttated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
NOTE Authonty cited: Sect10n 65595, Government Code; and sect10ns 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl l, 2015) Reference: Section 65596.
Government Code; and section 11, Governor's Exec Order No B-29-15 (April
1, 2015)
HISTORY
I. New sccuon filed 9-10-2009, operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code sectron 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37)
2. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015; opcratlve 9-15-2015 Ex-
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for printing only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Registcr2015, No. 38).
§ 492.15. Graywater Systems.
(a) G:raywater systems promote the efficient use of water and are en-
couraged to assist in on-site landscape irngation. All graywater systems
shall conform to the Cahforma Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5, Chapter
16) and any apphcable local ordinance standards. Refer to§ 490.1 (d) for
the applicability of tlus ordmance to landscape areas less than 2,500
square feet with the Estimated Total Water Use met entirely by graywa-
ter.
NOTE Authority cited Section 65595, Government Code; and sections 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec Order No. B-29-15 (Ap11l 1, 2015) Reference: Section 65596,
Government Code; and section 11, Governor's Exec 01der No. B-29-15 (Apnl
1, 2015)
HISTORY
1. New sect10n filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 putsuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No 37).
2. Renwnbcrmg of fom1er scct10n 492 15 to 492 16. new section 492.15 and
amendment of NOTE filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015 Exempt from
OAL review and submitted to OAL for pnntmg only pursuant to Governor's
Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015, No. 38).
§ 492.16. Stormwater Management and Rainwater
Retention.
(a) Stonnwater management practices mmimize runoff and mcrease
infiltration which recharges groundwater and improves water quality.
Implementmg storrnwater best management practices into the landscape
and grading design plans to minimize runoff and to mcrease on-site ram-
water retention and infiltration are encouraged.
(b) Project applicants shall refer to the local agency or Regional Water
Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwatcr
techmcal requirements.
( c) All planted landscape areas are reqmred to have friable soil to max-
imize water retention and mfiltration. Refer to § 492.6(a)(3).
(d) It is strongly recommended that landscape areas be designed for
capture and infiltration capacity that is sufficient to prevent runoff from
impervious surfaces (i.e. roof and paved areas) from either: the one inch,
24-hour rain event or (2) the 85th percentile, 24-hour rain event, and/or
addit10nal capacity as reqmred by any applicable local, regional, state or
federal regulation.
(e) Itis recommended that storm water projects incorporate any of the
following elements to improve on-site stonn water and dry weather run-
off capture and use:
• Grade impervious surfaces, such as driveways. during construc-
tion to drain to vegetated areas.
• Minimize the area of impervious surfaces such as paved areas, roof
and concrete driveways.
• Incorporate pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., gravel, permeable
pavers or blocks, pervious or porous concrete) that minimize run-
off.
• Direct runoff from paved surfaces and roof areas into plantmg beds
or landscaped areas to maximize site water capture and reuse.
• Incorporate rain gardens, cisterns, and other rain harvesting or
catchment systems.
• Incorporate infiltrat10n beds, swales, basms and drywells to cap-
ture storm water and dry weather runoff and mcrease percolation
into the soil.
• Consider constructed wetlands and ponds that retam water, equal-
ize excess flow, and filter pollutants.
NOTE· Authonty cited. Sect10n 65595, Government Code, and sections 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl 1, 2015). Reference. Sect10n 65596,
Government Code, and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No B-29-15 (Apnl
1, 2015).
llrSTORY
I. New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37).
2. Rcnumbermg of fonner section 492.16 to section 492.17 and renumbering of
former section 492.15 to new sect10n 492.16, mcluding amendment of section
heading, section and NOTE, filed 9-15-2015: operative 9-15-2015. Exempt
from OAL review and submitted to OAL for pnntmg only pursuant to Gover-
nor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (ReglSler 2015, No. 38).
§ 492.17. Public Education.
(a) Publications. Education is a critical component to promote the effi-
cient use of water in landscapes. The use of appropriate principles of de-
sign, mstallation, management and maintenance that save water ts en-
couraged in the community. -
(1) A local agency or water supplier/purveyor shall provide mforma-
tion to owners ofpenmtted renovations and new, smgle-family residen-
tial homes regarding the design, installation, management, and mainte-
nance of water efficient landscapes based on a water budget.
(b) Model Homes. All model homes that are landscaped shall use signs
and written infommtion to demonstrnte the principles of water efficient
landscapes described m this ordinance.
( 1) Signs shall be used to identify the model as an example of a waler
efficient landscape featuring elements such as hydrozones, migation
equipment, and others that contnbute to the overall water efficient theme.
Signage shall include information about the site wateruse as designed per
the local ordinance; specrfy who designed and installed the water effi-
cient landscape; and demonstrate low water use approaches to landscap-
ing such as using native plants, graywater systems, and ramwater catch-
ment systems.
(2) Information shall be provided about desigmng, installing, manag-
mg, and maintaming water efficient landscapes.
NOTE· Authority cited: Section 65595, Government Code; and sect10ns 11 and30,
Governor's Exec. Order No B-29-15 (Apnl 1, 2015) Reference. Sect10n 65596,
Government Code; and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
l, 2015).
HISTORY
1 New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009. No. 37).
2. Renumbering of former sect10n 492 17 to new section 492.18 and renumbering
of former sect10n 492.16 to new section 492.17, includmg amendment ofsec-
uon and NOTE, filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015. Exempt from OAL re-
view and submitted to OAL forpnnting only pursuant to Governor's Executive
Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015, No 38).
§ 492.18. Environmental Review.
(a) The local agency must comply with the Caltfomia Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA), as appropnate.
NOTE. Authonty cited: Section 21082. Pubhc Resources Code: and sect10ns 11
and30, Governor's Exec Order No B-29-15 (April 1,2015) Reference· Sect10ns
21080 and 21082, Pub he Resources Code, and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order
No B-29-15 (April 1. 2015).
HISTORY
1. Renumbermg of former section 492 l 7 to new secuon 492.18. mcludmg amend-
ment ofNOTE, filed 9-15-2015; operauve 9-15-2015 Exempt from OAL re-
view and subm!lled to OAL forprmtmg only pursuant to Governor's Execunve
Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015. No 38).
Page38.8 Reg1ste1 2015, No 38, 9-i8-20!5
Item 12.a. - Page 20
Title 23 Department of Water Resources §495
§ 493. Provisions for Existing Landscapes.
(a) A local agency may by mutual agreement, designate another
agency, such as a water purveyor, to implement some or all of the require-
ments contained in this ordmance. Local agencies may collaborate with
water purveyors to define each entity's specific responsibilities relating
to this ordinance.
NOTE Authority cited Seel!on 65595. Government Code, and scct10ns 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec. Order No B-29-15 (April I, 2015). Reference: Section 65596,
Government Code: and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
1, 2015).
HISTORY
I. New sect10n filed 7-31-92; operative 7-31-92 (Reg1ste1 92, No 32).
2 Repealer and new sectmn and amendment of NOTE filed 9-10-2009, operative
9-10-2009 pursuant to Government Code section 11343 4 (Register 2009. No.
37).
3. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015, operative 9-15-2015. Ex-
empt from OAL review and submitted to OAL for prmtrng only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Reg1ster2015, No. 38)
§ 493.1. Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey, and Irrigation
Water Use Analysis.
(a) This sect10n, 493.1, shall apply to all existing landscapes that were
installed before December 1, 2015 and are over one acre in size.
(1) For all landscapes m 493. l (a) that have a water meter, the local
agency shall admimsterprograms that may mclude, but not be lrmited to,
iITigation water usc analyses, migat1on surveys. and Irrigation audits to
evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary to reduce
landscape waterusc to a level that does not exceed the Maxunum Applied
Water Allowance for existing landscapes. The Maximum Applied Water
Allowance for ex1stmg landscapes shall be calculated as: MA \VA= (0.8)
(ETo) (LA) (0.62).
(2) For all landscapes m 493.1 (a), that do not have a meter, the local
agency shall admimsterprograms that may mclude, but not be limited to,
iingation surveys and 1ITigat1on audits to evaluate water use and provide
recommendations as necessary in order to prevent water waste.
(b) All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a certified
landscape irrigat10n auditor.
NOTE. Authonty cited· Section 65595, Government Code; and sections 11 and 30,
Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl 1, 2015). Reference: SectJon 65596,
Government Code, and section 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
I. 2015).
HISTORY
I. New section filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code sect10n 11343.4 (Register 2009, No 37)
2 Amendment of subsection (a) and Norn filed 9-15-2015; operative
9-15-2015. Exempt from OAL revww and submitted to OAL for printing only
pursuant to Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register
2015, No. 38).
§ 493.2. Water Waste Prever:ition.
(a) Local agencies shall prevent water waste resultmg from mefficient
landscape irrigat10n by prohibiting runoff from leaving the target land-
scape due to low head dramage, overspray, or other similar conditions
where water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, walks,
roadways, parkmg lots. or structures. Penalties for violation of these pro-
hibitions shall be established locally
(b) Restrictions regarding overspray and runoff may be modified if:
(1) the landscape area 1s adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff
occurs; or
(2) the adjacent non-pe1meable surfaces are designed and constructed
to drain entirely to landscaping.
NOTE Authority cited: Sechon 65594, Government Code Reference: Section
65596, Government Code
HISTORY
1. New section filed 9-10-2009; opernt1ve 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government
Code section 11343 4 (Register 2009, No 37)
§ 494. Effective Precipitation.
(a) A local agency may consider Effective Precipitation (25% ofannu-
al precipitation) in tracking wateruse and may use the following equation
to calculate Maximum Applied Water Allowance·
MA WA= (ETo -Eppt) (0.62) [(0.55 x LA)+ (0.45 x SLA)] for resi-
dential areas.
MA WA= (ETo--EPPT) (0.62) [(0.45 x LA)+ (0.55 x SLA)] for non-
residential areas.
NOTE. Authority Cited Section 65595. Government Code; and sections 11 and 30.
Governor's Exec Order No. B-29-15 (April 1. 2015). Reference· Section 65596,
Government Code. and section 11, Governor· s Exec Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
1, 2015)
HISTORY
1 Repealer and new section, new NOTE and new Appendices A-C filed
9-10-2009: operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Government Code section
11343.4 (Reg1ste1 2009, No. 37).
2 Amendment of section and NOTE filed 9-15-2015, operative 9-15-2015 Ex-
empt from OAL reY1ew and subnutted to OAL for printmg only pursuant to
Governor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015)(Register2015, No. 38).
§ 495. Reporting.
(a) Local agencies shall rep01t on implementation and enforcement by
December 31, 2015. Local agencies responsible for admimstcring indi-
vidual ordinances shall report on therr updated ordmance, while those
agencies developing a regional ordmance shall report on their existing
ordinance. Those agencies craftmg a regional ordinances shall also re-
port on their new ordinance by March 1, 2016. Subsequently, rep01ting
for all agencies will be due by January 31st of each year Reports shall
be submitted to the Department of Water Resources.
(b) Local agencies are to address the following:
(1) State whether you are adopting a single agency ordmance or a re-
gional agency alliance ordinance, and the date of adoption or anticipated
date of adoption
(2) Define the reportmg penod. The reporting period shall commence
on December 1, 2015 and the end on December 28, 2015. For local agen-
cies crafting regional ordinances with other agencies, there shall be an
additional reporting period commencmg on February 1, 2016 and ending
on February 28, 2016. In subsequent years, all local agency reporting will
be for the calendar year.
(3) State ifusing a locally modified Water Efficient Landscape Ordi-
nance (WELO) or the MWELO. Ifusmg a locally modified WELO, how
1s it different than MWELO, is 1t at least as efficient as MWELO, and are
there any exemptions specified?
(4) State the entity responsible for implementing the ordinance.
(5) State number and types of projects subject to the ordmance during
the specified repo1ting period.
(6) State the total area (in square feet or acres) subject to the ordinance
over the reporting period, if available.
(7) Provide the number of new housing starts, new commercial proj-
ects, and landscape retrofits dunng the reporting period.
(8) Descnbe the procedure for review of projects subject lo the ordi-
nance.
(9) Describe actions taken lo verify compliance. ls a plan check per-
fonned; if so. by what entity? ls a site inspection performed; 1f so, by what
entity? Is a post-mstallation audit required; if so, by whom?
(10) Descnbe enforcement measures.
(11) Explain challenges to unplementing and enforcing the ordinance.
( 12) Describe educational and other needs to properly apply the ordi-
nance.
NOTE: Authonty cited: Section 65595, Government Code; and sect10ns 11 and30,
Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl I, 2015). Reference: Section 65596,
Government Code; and sect10n 11, Governor's Exec. Order No. B-29-15 (Apnl
I, 2015).
HISTORY
1. New section filed 9-15-2015, operattve9-15-2015 Exemptfiom OALreview
and submitted to OAL forpnntmg only pursuant to Governor's Executive Order
No B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Reg1ster2015. No. 38) Forpriorlustory, see Regis-
ter 2009, No 37.
Page38.9 Register 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 21
§495 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
Appendix A. Reference Evapotranspiration {ETo) Table
Appendix A -Reference Evapotranspiration <ET01 Table*
Annual
Countv and City Jan Feb Mar Apr Mav Jun Jul Am! Seo Oct Nov Dec ETo
ALAMEDA
Fremont 1.5 1.9 3.4 4.7 5.4 6.3 6.7 6.0 4.5 3.4 1.8 1.5 47.0
Livermore 1.2 1.5 2.9 4.4 5.9 6.6 7.4 6.4 5.3 3.2 1.5 0.9 47.2
Oakland 1.5 1.5 2.8 3.9 5.1 5.3 6.0 5.5 4.8 3.1 1.4 0.9 41.8
Oakland Foothills l.l 1.4 2.7 3.7 5.1 6.4 5.8 4.9 3.6 2.6 1.4 1.0 39.6
Pleasanton 0.8 1.5 2.9 4.4 5.6 6.7 7.4 6.4 4.7 3.3 1.5 1.0 46.2
Union City 1.4 1.8 3.1 4.2 5.4 5.9 6.4 5.7 4.4 3.1 1.5 1.2 44.2
ALPINE
Markleeville 0.7 0.9 2.0 3.5 5.0 6.1 7.3 6.4 4.4 2.6 l.2 0.5 40.6
AMADOR
Jackson 1.2 1.5 2.8 4.4 6.0 7.2 7.9 7.2 5.3 3.2 1.4 0.9 48.9
Shanandoah Valley 1.0 1.7 2.9 4.4 5.6 6.8 7.9 7.1 5.2 36 1.7 1.0 48.8
BUTTE
Chico 1.2 1.8 2.9 4.7 6.1 7.4 8.5 7.3 5.4 3.7 1.7 1.0 51.7
Durham 1.1 1.8 3.2 5.0 6.5 7.4 7.8 6.9 5.3 3.6 1.7 1.0 51.l
Gridley 1.2 1.8 3.0 4.7 6.1 7.7 8.5 7.1 5.4 3.7 1.7 1.0 51.9
Oroville l.2 L7 2.8 4.7 6.1 7.6 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.7 1.7 1.0 51.5
CALAVERAS
San Andreas 1.2 1.5 2.8 4.4 6.0 7.3 7.9 7.0 5.3 3.2 1.4 0.7 48.8
COLUSA
Colusa 1.0 1.7 3.4 5.0 6.4 7.6 8.3 7.2 5.4 3.8 1.8 1.1 52.8
Williams 1.2 1.7 2.9 4.5 6.1 7.2 8.5 7.3 ,5.3 3.4 1.6 1.0 50.8
CONTRA COSTA
Brentwood 1.0 1.5 2.9 4.5 6.l 7.1 7.9 6.7 5.2 3.2 1.4 0.7 48.3
Concord 1.1 1.4 2.4 4.0 5.5 5.9 7.0 6.0 4.8 3.2 1.3 0.7 43.4
Courtland 0.9 1.5 2.9 4.4 6.1 6.9 7.9 6.7 5.3 3.2 1.4 0.7 48.0
Martinez 1.2 1.4 2.4 3.9 5.3 5.6 6.7 5.6 4.7 3.1 1.2 0.7 41.8
Moraga 1.2 1.5 3.4 4.2 55 6.1 6.7 5.9 4.6 3.2 1.6 1.0 44.9
Pittsburg 1.0 1.5 2.8 4.1 56 6.4 7.4 6.4 5.0 3.2 1.3 0.7 45.4
Walnut Creek 0.8 1.5 2.9 4.4 5.6 6.7 7.4 6.4 4.7 3.3 1.5 1.0 46.2
DEL NORTE
Crescent City 0.5 0.9 20 3.0 3.7 3.5 4.3 3.7 3.0 2.0 0.9 0.5 27.7
ELDORADO
Camino 0.9 1.7 2.5 3.9 5.9 7.2 7.8 6.8 5.1 3.1 1.5 0.9 47.3
FRESNO
Clovis 1.0 1.5 3.2 4.8 6.4 7.7 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.4
Coalinga 1.2 1.7 3.1 4.6 6.2 72 8.5 73 5.3 3.4 1.6 0.7 50.9
Firebaugh 1.0 1.8 3.7 5.7 7.3 8.1 8.2 7.2 5.5 3.9 2.0 LI 55.4
FivePoints 1.3 2.0 40 6.1 7.7 8.5 8.7 8.0 6.2 4.5 24 1.2 60.4
Fresno 0.9 1.7 ......
.J • .J 4.8 6.7 7.8 8.4 7.1 5.2 3.2 1.4 0.6 51.1
Fresno State 0.9 1.6 3.2 5.2 7.0 8.0 8.7 7.6 5.4 3.6 1.7 0.9 53.7
Friant 1.2 1.5 3.1 4.7 6.4 77 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.3
Kerman 0.9 1.5 3.2 4.8 6.6 7.7 8.4 7.2 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.2
Kmgsburg 1.0 1.5 3.4 4.8 6.6 7.7 8.4 7.2 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.6
Mendota 1.5 2.5 4.6 6.2 7.9 8.6 8.8 7.5 5.9 4.5 2.4 1.5 61.7
Orange Cove 1.2 1.9 3.5 4.7 7.4 85 8.9 7.9 5.9 3.7 1.8 1.2 56.7
Panoche 1.1 2.0 4.0 5.6 7.8 8.5 8.3 7.3 5.6 3.9 1.8 1.2 57.2
Parlier 1 0 1.9 3.6 5.2 6.8 7.6 8.1 7.0 5.1 3.4 1.7 0.9 52.0
Page38.10 Reg1ster2015,No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 22
Title 23 Depa11ment of Water Resources § 495
Appendix A -Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo Table*
Annual
Countv and City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul AU!! Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo
FRESNO
Reedley LI 1.5 3.2 4.7 6.4 7.7 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.3
Westlands 0.9 1.7 3.8 6.3 8.0 8.6 8.6 7.8 5.9 4.3 2.1 1.1 58.8
GLENN
Orland 1.1 1.8 3.4 5.0 6.4 7.5 7.9 6.7 5.3 3.9 1.8 1.4 52.l
Willows 1.2 1.7 2.9 4.7 6.1 7.2 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.6 1.7 1.0 51.3
HUMBOLDT
Eureka 0.5 l.l 2.0 3.0 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.0 2.0 0.9 0.5 27.5
Ferndale 0.5 1.1 2.0 3.0 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.0 2.0 0.9 0.5 27.5
Garberville 0.6 1.2 2.2 3.1 4.5 5.0 5.5 4.9 3.8 2.4 1.0 0.7 34.9
Hoopa 0.5 1.1 2.1 3.0 4.4 5.4 6.1 5.1 3.8 2.4 0.9 0.7 35.6
IMPERIAL
Brawley 2.8 3.8 5.9 8.0 10.4 11.5 11.7 10.0 8.4 6.2 3.5 2.1 84.2
Calipatria/Mulberry 2.4 3.2 5.1 6.8 8.6 9.2 9.2 8.6 7.0 5.2 3.1 2.3 70.7
El Centro 2.7 3.5 5.6 7.9 IO.I 11.1 11.6 9.5 8.3 6.1 3.3 2.0 81.7
Holtville 2.8 3.8 5.9 7.9 10.4 11.6 12.0 10.0 8.6 6.2 3.5 2.1 84.7
Melo land 2.5 3.2 5.5 7.5 8.9 9.2 9.0 8.5 6.8 5.3 3.1 2.2 71.6
Palo Verde II 2.5 3.3 5.7 6.9 8.5 8.9 8.6 7.9 6.2 4.5 2.9 2.3 68.2
Seeley 2.7 3.5 5.9 7.7 9.7 10.l 9.3 8.3 6.9 5.5 3.4 2.2 75.4
Westmoreland 2.4 3.3 5.3 6.9 8.7 9.6 9.6 8.7 6.9 5.0 3.0 2.2 71.4
Yuma 2.5 3.4 5.3 6.9 8.7 9.6 9.6 8.7 6.9 5.0 3.0 2.2 71.6
INYO
Bishop 1.7 2.7 4.8 6.7 8.2 10.9 7.4 9.6 7.4 4.8 2.5 1.6 68.3
Death Valley Jct 2.2 3.3 5.4 7.7 9.8 11.1 11.4 10.l 8.3 5.4 2.9 1.7 79.l
Independence 1.7 2.7 3.4 6.6 8.5 9.5 9.8 8.5 7.1 3.9 2.0 1.5 65.2
Lower Haiwee Res. 1.8 2.7 4.4 7.1 8.5 9.5 9.8 8.5 7.1 4.2 2.6 1.5 67.6
Oasis 2.7 2.8 5.9 8.0 10.4 11.7 11.6 10.0 8.4 6.2 3.4 2.1 83.l
KERN
Arvin 1.2 I.8 3.5 4.7 6.6 7.4 8.1 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.7 l.O 51.9
Bakersfield 1.0 1.8 3.5 4.7 6.6 7.7 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.5 I.6 0.9 52.4
Bakersfield/Bonanza 1.2 2.2 3.7 5.7 7.4 8.2 8.7 7.8 5.7 4.0 2.1 1.2 57.9
Bakersfield/Greenlee 1.2 2.2 3.7 5.7 7.4 8.2 8.7 7.8 5.7 4.0 2.1 1.2 57.9
Belridge 1.4 2.2 4.1 5.5 7.7 8.5 8.6 7.8 6.0 3.8 2.0 1.5 59.2
Blackwells Corner l .4 2.1 3.8 5.4 7.0 7.8 8.5 7.7 5.8 3.9 1.9 I.2 56.6
Buttonwillow I.O 1.8 3.2 4.7 6.6 7.7 8.5 7.3 5.4 3.4 1.5 0.9 52.0
China Lake 2.1 3.2 5.3 7.7 9.2 10.0 11.0 9.8 7.3 4.9 2.7 1.7 74.8
Delano 0.9 I.8 3.4 4.7 6.6 7.7 8.5 7.3 5.4 3.4 1.4 0.7 52.0
Famoso 1.3 1.9 3.5 4.8 6.7 7.6 8.0 7.3 5.5 3.5 1.7 1.3 53.l
Grapevine 1.3 l.8 3.1 4.4 5.6 6.8 7.6 6.8 5.9 3.4 1.9 1.0 49.5
Inyokem 2.0 3.1 4.9 7.3 8.5 9.7 11.0 9.4 7.1 5.1 2.6 l.7 72.4
Isabella Dam 1.2 1.4 2.8 4.4 5.8 7.3 7.9 7.0 5.0 3.2 1.7 0.9 48.4
Lamont 1 3 2.4 4.4 4.6 6.5 7.0 8.8 7.6 5.7 3.7 1.6 0.8 54.4
Lost Hills 1.6 2.2 3.7 5.1 6.8 7.8 8.7 7.8 5.7 4.0 2.1 1.6 57.l
McFarland/Kern 1.2 2.1 3.7 5.6 7.3 8.0 8.3 7.4 5.6 4.1 2.0 1.2 56.5
Shafter 1.0 1.7 3.4 5.0 6.6 7.7 8.3 7.3 5.4 3.4 I.5 0.9 52.l
Taft 1.3 1.8 3.1 4.3 6.2 7.3 8.5 7.3 5.4 3.4 1.7 1.0 51.2
Tehachapi 1.4 1.8 3.2 5.0 6.1 7.7 7.9 7.3 5.9 3.4 2.1 1.2 52.9
KINGS
Caruthers I.6 2.5 4.0 5.7 7.8 8.7 9.3 8.4 6.3 4.4 2.4 1.6 62.7
Page38.11 Register 1015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 23
§495 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
Appendix A -Reference Evapotranspiration <EToJ Table*
Annual
County and City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aue: Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo
KINGS
Corcoran 1.6 2.2 3.7 5.1 6.8 7.8 8.7 7.8 5.7 4.0 2.1 1.6 57.1
Hanford 0.9 1.5 3.4 5.0 6.6 7.7 8.3 7.2 5.4 3.4 1.4 0.7. 51.5
Kettleman 1.1 2.0 4.0 6.0 7.5 8.5 9.1 8.2 6.1 4.5 2.2 1.1 60.2
Lemoore 0.9 1.5 3.4 5.0 6.6 7.7 8.3 7.3 5.4 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.7
Stratford 0.9 1.9 3.9 6.1 7.8 8.6 8.8 77 5.9 4.1 2.1 1.0 58.7
LAKE
Lakeport 1.1 1.3 2.6 3.5 5.1 6.0 7.3 61 4.7 2.9 1.2 0.9 42.8
Lower Lake 1.2 1.4 2.7 4.5 5.3 6.3 7.4 6.4 5.0 3.1 1.3 0.9 45.4
LASSEN
BuntingyiJle 1.0 1.7 3.5 4.9 6.2 7.3 8.4 7.5 5.4 3.4 1.5 0.9 51.8
Ravendale 0.6 l.l 2.3 4.1 5.6 67 7.9 7.3 4.7 2.8 1.2 0.5 44.9
Susanville 0.7 LO 2.2 4.1 5.6 6.5 7.8 7.0 4.6 2.8 1.2 0.5 44.0
LOS ANGELES
Burbank 2.1 2.8 3.7 4.7 5.1 6.0 6.6 6.7 5.4 4.0 2.6 2.0 51.7
Claremont 2.0 2.3 3.4 4.6 5.0 6.0 7.0 7.0 5.3 4.0 2.7 2.1 51.3
El Dorado 1.7 2.2 3.6 4.8 5.1 5.7 5.9 5.9 4.4 3.2 2.2 1.7 46.3
Glendale 2.0 2.2 3.3 3.8 4.7 4.8 5.7 5.6 4.3 3.3 2.2 1.8 43.7
Glendora 2.0 2.5 3.6 4.9 5.4 6.1 7.3 6.8 5.7 4.2 2.6 2.0 53.l
Gorman 1.6 2.2 3.4 4.6 5.5 7.4 7.7 7.1 5.9 3.6 2.4 I.I 52.4
Hollywood Hills 2.1 2.2 3.8 5.4 6.0 6.5 6.7 6.4 5.2 3.7 2.8 2.1 52.8
Lancaster 2.1 3.0 4.6 5.9 8.5 9.7 11.0 9.8 7.3 4.6 2.8 1 7 71.l
Long Beach 1.8 2.1 3.3 3.9 4.5 4.3 5.3 4.7 3.7 2.8 1.8 1.5 39.7
Los Angeles 2.2 2.7 3.7 4.7 5.5 5.8 6.2 5.9 5.0 3.9 2.6 1.9 50.1
Monrovia 2.2 2.3 3.8 4.3 5.5 5.9 6.9 6.4 5.1 3.2 2.5 2.0 50.2
Palmdale 2.0 2.6 4.6 6.2 7.3 8.9 9.8 9.0 6.5 4.7 2.7 2.1 66.2
Pasadena 2.1 2.7 3.7 4.7 5.1 6.0 7.1 6.7 5.6 4.2 2.6 2.0 52.3
Pearblossom 1.7 2.4 3.7 4.7 7.3 7.7 9.9 7.9 6.4 4.0 2.6 1.6 59.9
Pomona 1.7 2.0 3.4 4.5 5.0 5.8 6.5 6.4 4.7 3.5 2.3 1.7 47.5
Redondo Beach 2.2 2.4 3.3 3.8 4.5 4.7 5.4 4.8 4.4 2.8 2.4 2.0 42.6
San Fernando 2.0 2.7 3.5 4.6 5.5 5.9 7.3 -6.7 5.3 3.9 2.6 2.0 52.0
Santa Clarita 2.8 2.8 4.1 5.6 6.0 6.8 7.6 7.8 5.8 5.2 3.7 3.2 61.5
Santa Monica 1.8 2.1 3.3 4.5 4.7 5.0 5.4 5.4 3.9 3.4 2.4 2.2 44.2
MADERA
Chowchilla 1.0 1.4 3.2 4.7 6.6 7.8 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.4
Madera 0.9 1.4 3.2 4.8 6.6 7.8 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.5
Raymond 1.2 1.5 3.0 4.6 6.1 7.6 8.4 7.3 5.2 3.4 1.4 0.7 50.5
MARIN
Black Point 1.1 1.7 3.0 4.2 5.2 6.2 6.6 5.8 4.3 2.8 1.3 0.9 43.0
Novato 1.3 1.5 2.4 3.5 4.4 6.0 5.9 5.4 4.4 2.8 1.4 0.7 39.8
Point San Pedro 1.1 1.7 3.0 4.2 5.2 6.2 6.6 5.8 4.3 2.8 1.3 0.9 43.0
San Rafael 1.2 1.3 2.4 3.3 4.0 4.8 4.8 4.9 4.3 2.7 1.3 0.7 35.8
MARIPOSA
Coulterville I.I 1.5 2.8 4.4 5.9 7.3 8.1 7.0 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 48.8
Mariposa 1.1 1.5 2.8 4.4 5.9 7.4 8.2 7.1 5.0 3.4 14 0.7 49.0
Yosemite Village 0.7 1.0 2.3 3.7 5.1 6.5 7.1 6.1 4.4 2.9 1.1 0.6 41.4
MENDOCINO
Fort Bragg 0.9 1.3 2.2 3.0 3.7 3.5 3.7 3.7 3.0 2.3 1.2 0.7 29.0
Hop land l. l 1.3 2.6 3.4 5.0 5.9 6.5 5.7 4.5 2.8 1.3 0.7 40.9
Page38.12 Reg1'te1 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 24
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§495 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
Appendix A-Reference Evapotranspiration <ETo Table*
Annual
County and City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun .Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo
PLUMAS
Portola 0.7 0.9 1.9 3.5 4.9 5.9 7.3 5.9 4.3 2.7 0.9 0.5 39.4
Qumcy 0.7 0.9 2.2 3.5 4.9 5.9 7.3 5.9 4.4 2.8 1.2 0.5 40.2
RIVERSIDE
Beaumont 2.0 2.3 3.4 4.4 6.1 7.1 7.6 7.9 6.0 3.9 2.6 1.7 55.0
Blythe 2.4 3.3 5.3 6.9 8.7 9.6 9.6 8.7 6.9 5.0 3.0 2.2 71.4
Cathedral City 1.6 2.2 3.7 5 1 6.8 7.8 8.7 7.8 5.7 4.0 2.1 1.6 57.1
Coachella 2.9 4.4 6.2 8.4 10.5 11.9 12 3 10.1 8.9 6.2 3.8 2.4 88.1
Desert Center 2.9 4.l 6.4 8.5 11.0 12.l 12.2 11.1 9.0 6.4 3.9 2.6 90.0
Elsinore 2 l 2.8 3.9 4.4 5.9 7.1 7.6 7.0 5.8 3.9 2.6 1.9 55.0
Indio 3.1 3.6 6.5 8.3 10.5 11.0 10.8 9.7 8.3 5.9 3.7 2.7 83.9
La Quinta 2.4 2.8 5.2 6.5 8.3 8.7 8.5 7.9 6.5 4.5 2.7 2.2 66.2
Mecca 2.6 3.3 5.7 7.2 8.6 9.0 8.8 8.2 6.8 5.0 3.2 2.4 70.8
Oasis 2.9 3.3 5.3 6.1 8.5 8.9 8.7 7.9 6.9 4.8 2.9 2.3 68.4
Palm Desert 2.5 3.4 5.3 6.9 8.7 9.6 9.6 8.7 6.9 5.0 30 2.2 71.6
Palm Springs 2.0 2.9 4.9 7.2 8.3 8.5 11.6 8.3 7.2 5.9 2.7 1.7 71.1
Rancho California 1.8 2.2 3.4 4.8 5.6 6.3 6.5 6.2 4.8 3.7 2.4 1.8 49.5
Rancho Mirage 2.4 3.3 5.3 6.9 8.7 9.6 9.6 8.7 6.9 5.0 3.0 2.2 71.4
Ripley 2.7 3.3 5.6 7.2 8.7 8.7 8.4 7.6 6.2 4.6 2.8 2.2 67.8
Salton Sea North 2.5 3.3 5.5 7.2 8.8 9.3 9.2 85 6.8 5.2 3.1 2.3 71.7
Temecula East II 2.3 2.4 4.1 4.9 6.4 7.0 7.8 7.4 5.7 4 I 2.6 2.2 56.7
Thermal 2.4 3.3 5.5 7.6 9.1 9.6 9.3 8.6 7.1 5.2 3.1 2.1 72.8
Riverside UC 2.5 2.9 4.2 5.3 5.9 6.6 7.2 6.9 5.4 4.1 2.9 2.6 56.4
Winchester 2.3 2.4 4.1 4.9 6.4 6.9 7.7 7.5 6.0 3.9 2.6 2.1 56.8
SACRAMENTO
Fair Oaks 1.0 1.6 3.4 4.1 6.5 7.5 8.1 7.1 5.2 3.4 1.5 1.0 50.5
Sacramento 1.0 1.8 3.2 4.7 6.4 7.7 8.4 7.2 5.4 3.7 1.7 0.9 51.9
Twitchell Island 1.2 1.8 39 5.3 7.4 8.8 9.1 7.8 5.9 3.8 1.7 1.2 57.9
SAN BENITO
Hollister 1.5 1.8 3.1 4.3 5.5 5.7 6.4 5.9 5.0 3.5 1.7 1.1 45.l
San Bemto 1.2 1.6 3.1 4.6 5.6 6.4 6.9 6.5 4.8 37 1 7 1.2 47.2
San Juan Valley 1.4 1.8 3.4 4.5 6.0 6.7 7.1 6.4 5.0 3.5 1.8 1.4 49.1
SAN BERNARDINO
Baker 2.7 3.9 6.1 8.3 10.4 11.8 12.2 11.0 8.9 6.1 3.3 2.1 86.6
Barstow NE 2.2 2.9 5.3 6.9 9.0 10.1 9.9 8.9 6.8 4.8 2.7 2.1 71.7
Big Bear Lake 1.8' 2.6 4.6 6.0 7.0 7.6 8.1 7.4 5.4 4.1 2.4 1.8 58.6
Chino 2.1 2.9 3.9 4.5 5.7 6.5 7.3 7.1 5.9 4.2 2.6 2.0 54.6
Crestline 1.5 1.9 3.3 4.4 5.5 6.6 7.8 7. J 5.4 3.5 2.2 1.6 50.8
Lake Arrowhead 1.8 2.6 4.6 6.0 7.0 7.6 8.1 7.4 5.4 4.1 2.4 1.8 58.6
Lucerne Valley 2.2 2.9 5.1 6.5 9.1 11.0 11.4 9.9 7.4 5.0 3.0 1.8 75 3
Needles 3.2 4.2 6.6 8.9 I 1.0 12.4 12 8 11.0 8.9 66 4.0 2.7 92.l
Newberry Springs 2.1 2.9 5.3 8.4 9.8 10.9 11.1 9.9 7.6 5.2 3 1 2.0 78.2
San Bernardino 2.0 2.7 3.8 4.6 5.7 69 7.9 7.4 5.9 4.2 2.6 2.0 55.6
Twentynine Palms 2.6 3.6 5.9 7.9 10.1 11.2 11.2 10.3 8.6 5.9 3.4 2.2 82.9
Victorville 20 2.6 4.6 6.2 7.3 8.9 9.8 9.0 6.5 4.7 2.7 2.1 66.2
SAN DIEGO
Chula Vista 2.2 2.7 3.4 3.8 4.9 4.7 5.5 4.9 4.5 34 2.4 2.0 44.2
Escondido SPV 2.4 2.6 39 4.7 5.9 6.5 7.1 6.7 5.3 3.9 2.8 2.3 54.2
Miramar 2.3 2.5 3.7 4.1 5.1 5.4 6.1 5.8 4.5 3.3 2.4 2.1 47.l
Page38.14 Reg1ste1 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 26
Title 23 Department of Water Resources §495
Appendix A-Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table*
Annual
County and Citv Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul AUi! Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo
SAN DIEGO
Oceanside 2.2 2.7 3.4 3.7 4.9 4.6 4.6 5.1 4.1 3.3 2.4 2.0 42.9
Otay Lake 2.3 2.7 3.9 4.6 5.6 5.9 6.2 6.1 4.8 3.7 2.6 2.2 50.4
Pme Valley 1.5 2.4 3.8 5.1 6.0 7.0 7.8 7.3 6.0 4.0 2.2 1.7 54.8
Ramona 2.1 2.1 3.4 4.6 5.2 6.3 6.7 6.8 5.3 4.1 2.8 2.1 51.6
San Diego 2.1. 2.4 3.4 4.6 5.1 5.3 5.7 5.6 4.3 3.6 2.4 2.0 46.5
Santee 2.1 2.7 3.7 4.5 5.5 6.1 6.6 6.2 5.4 3.8 2.6 2.0 51.l
Torrey Pines 2.2 2.3 3.4 3.9 4.0 4.1 4.6 4.7 3.8 2.8 2.0 2.0 39.8
Warner Spnngs 1.6 2.7 3.7 4.7 5.7 7.6 8.3 7.7 6.3 4.0 2.5 1.3 56.0
SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco 1.5 1.3 2.4 3.0 3.7 4.6 4.9 4.8 4 1 2.8 1.3 0.7 35.1
SAN JOAQUIN
Farmington 1.5 1.5 2.9 4.7 6.2 7.6 8.1 6.8 5.3 3.3 1.4 0.7 50.0
Lodi West 1.0 1.6 3.3 4.3 6.3 6.9 7.3 6.4 4.5 3.0 1.4 0.8 46.7
Manteca 0.9 1.7 3.4 5.0 6.5 7.5 8.0 7.1 5.2 ,., ,., 1.6 0.9 51.2 .:> • .:>
Stockton 0.8 1.5 2.9 4.7 6.2 7.4 8 1 6.8 5.3 3.2 1.4 0.6 49.1
Tracy 1.0 1.5 2.9 4.5 6.1 7.3 7.9 6.7 5.3 3.2 1.3 0.7 48.5
SAN LUIS OBISPO
Arroyo Grande 2.0 2.2 3.2 3.8 4.3 4.7 4.3 4.6 3.8 3.2 2.4 1.7 40.0
Atascadero 1.2 1.5 2.8 3.9 4.5 6.0 6.7 6.2 5.0 3.2 1.7 LO 43.7
Morro Bay 2.0 2.2 3.1 3.5 4.3 4.5 4.6 4.6 3.8 3.5 2.1 1.7 39.9
Nipomo 2.2 2.5 3.8 5.1 5.7 6.2 6.4 6.1 4.9 4.1 2.9 2.3 52.l
Paso Robles 1.6 2.0 3.2 4.3 5.5 6.3 7.3 6.7 5.1 3.7 2.1 1.4 49.0
San Luis Obispo 2.0 2.2 3.2 4.1 4.9 5.3 4.6 5.5 4.4 3.5 2.4 1.7 43.8
San Miguel 1.6 2.0 3.2 4.3 5.0 6.4 7.4 6.8 5.1 3.7 2.1 1.4 49.0
San Simeon 2.0 2.0 2.9 3.5 4.2 4.4 4.6 4.3 3.5 3.1 2.0 1.7 38.1
SAN MATEO
Hal Moon Bay 1.5 1.7 2.4 3.0 3.9 4.3 4.3 4.2 3.5 2.8 1.3 1.0 33.7
Redwood City 1.5 1.8 2.9 3.8 5.2 5.3 6.2 5.6 4.8 3.1 1.7 1.0 42.8
Woodside 1.8 2.2 3.4 4.8 5.6 6.3 6.5 6.2 4.8 3.7 2.4 1.8 49.5
SANT A BARBARA
Betteravia 2.1 2.6 4.0 5.2 6.0 5.9 5.8 5.4 4.1 3.3 2.7 2.1 49.1
Carpenteria 2.0 2.4 3.2 3.9 4.8 5.2 5.5 5.7 4_5 3.4 2.4 2.0 44.9
Cuyarna 2.1 2.4 3.8 5.4 6.9 7.9 8.5 7.7 5.9 4.5 2.6 2.0 59.7
Goleta 2.1 2.5 39 5.1 5.7 5.7 5.4 5.4 4.2 3.2 2.8 2.2 48.1
Goleta Foothills 2.3 2.6 3.7 5.4 5.3 5.6 5.5 5.7 4.5 3.9 2.8 '} ... __ .:J 49.6
Guadalupe 2.0 2.2 3.2 3.7 4.9 4.6 4.5 4.6 4.1 3.3 2.4 1.7 41.l
Lompoc 2.0 2.2 3.2 3.7 4.8 4.6 4.9 4.8 3.9 3.2 2.4 1 7 41.1
Los Alamos 1.8 2.0 3.2 4.1 4.9 5.3 5.7 5.5 4.4 3.7 2.4 1.6 44.6
Santa Barbara 2.0 2.5 3.2 3.8 4.6 5.1 5.5 4.5 3.4 2.4 1.8 1.8 40.6
Santa Maria 1.8 2.3 3.7 5.1 5.7 5.8 5.6 5.3 4.2 3.5 2.4 1.9 47.4
Santa Ynez 1.7 2.2 3.5 5.0 5.8 6.2 6.4 6.0 4.5 3.6 2.2 1.7 48.7
Sisquoc 2.1 2.5 3.8 4.1 6.1 6.3 6.4 5.8 4.7 3.4 2.3 1.8 49.2
Solvang 2.0 20 3.3 4.3 5.0 5.6 6.1 5.6 4.4 3.7 2.2 1.6 45.6
SANTA CLARA
Gilroy 1.3 I 8 3.1 4.1 5.3 5.6 6.1 5.5 4.7 3.4 1.7 1.1 43.6
Los Gatos 1.5 1.8 2.8 3.9 5.0 5.6 6.2 5.5 4.7 3.2 1.7 1.1 42.9
Morgan Hill 1.5 1.8 3.4 4.2 6.3 7.0 7.1 6.0 5 1 3.7 1.9 1.4 49.5
Palo Alto 1.5 1.8 2.8 3.8 5.2 5.3 6.2 5.6 5.0 3.2 1.7 1.0 43.0
Page 38.14(a) Register 2015. No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 27
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Title 23 Department of Water Resources §495
Anoendix A -Reference Evapotransuiration (ETo • Table*
Annual
Countv and City Jan Feb Mar Aor May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo
STANISLAUS
Patterson 1.3 2.1 4.2 5.4 7.9 8.6 8.2 6.6 5.8 4.0 1.9 1.3 57.3
Turlock 0.9 1.5 3.2 4.7 6.5 7.7 8.2 7.0 5.1 3.4 1.4 0.7 50.2
SUTTER
Nicolaus 0.9 1.6 3.2 4.9 6.3 7.5 8.0 6.9 5.2 3.4 1.5 0.9 50.2
Yuba City 1.3 2.1 2.8 4.4 5.7 7.2 . 71 6.1 4.7 3.2 1.2 0.9 46.7
TEHAMA
Corning 1.2 1.8 2.9 4.5 6.1 7.3 8.1 7.2 5.3 3.7 1.7 1.1 50.7
Gerber 1.0 1.8 3.5 5.0 6.6 7.9 8.7 7.4 5.8 4.1 1.8 I.I 54.7
Gerber Dryland 0.9 1.6 3.2 4.7 6.7 8.4 9.0 7.9 6.0 4.2 2.0 1.0 55.5
Red Bluff l.2 1.8 2.9 4.4 5.9 7.4 8.5 73 5.4 3.5 1.7 1.0 51.1
TRINITY
Hay Fork 05 1.1 2.3 3.5 49 5.9 7.0 6.0 4.5 2.8 0.9 0.7 40.l
Weaverville 0.6 1.1 2.2 3.3 4.9 5.9 7.3 6.0 4:4 27 0.9 0.7 40.0
TULARE
Alpaugh 0.9 1.7 3.4 4.8 6.6 7.7 8.2 7.3 5.4 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.6
Badger LO J.3 2.7 4.1 6.0 7.3 7.7 7.0 4.8 3.3 1.4 0.7 47.3
Delano 1.1 1.9 4.0 4.9 7.2 7.9 8.1 7.3 5.4 3.2 1.5 1.2 53.6
Dinuba 1.1 l.5 3.2 4.7 6.2 7.7 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 51.2
Lindcove 0.9 1.6 3.0 4.8 65 7.6 8.1 7.2 5.2 3.4 1.6 0.9 50.6
Porterville 1.2 1.8 3.4 4.7 6.6 7.7 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.4 1.4 0.7 52.1
Visalia 0.9 1.7 3.3 5.1 68 7.7 7.9 6.9 4.9 3.2 1.5 0.8 50.7
TUOLUMNE
Groveland 1.1 1.5 2.8 4.1 5.7 7.2 7.9 6.6 5.1 3.3 1.4 0.7 47.5
Sonora l l 1.5 2.8 4.1 5.8 7.2 7.9 6.7 5.1 3.2 1.4 0.7 47.6
VENTURA
Camarillo 2.2 2.5 3.7 4.3 5.0 5.2 5.9 5.4 4.2 3.0 2.5 2.1 46.l
Oxnard 2.2 2.5 3.2 3.7 4.4 4.6 5.4 4.8 4.0 3.3 2.4 2.0 42.3
Piru 2.8 2.8 4.1 5.6 6.0 6.8 7.6 7.8 5.8 5.2 3.7 3.2 61.5
Port Hueneme 2.0 2.3 3.3 4.6 4.9 4.9 4.9 5.0 3.7 3.2 2.5 2.2 43.5
Thousand Oaks 2.2 2.6 3.4 4.5 5.4 5.9 6.7 6.4 5.4 3.9 2.6 2.0 51.0
Ventura 2.2 2.6 3.2 3.8 4.6 4.7 5.5 4.9 4.1 3.4 2.5 2.0 43.5
YOLO
Bryte 09 1.7 3.3 5.0 6.4 7.5 79 7.0 52 3.5 1 6 1.0 51.0
Davis 1.0 1.9 3.3 5.0 6.4 7.6 8.2 7.1 5.4 4.0 l.8 1.0 52.5
Esparto 1.0 1.7 3.4 5.5 6.9 8.1 8.5 7.5 5.8 4.2 2.0 1.2 55.8
Wmters 1.7 1.7 2.9 4.4 5.8 7.1 7.9 6.7 5.3 3.3 1.6 1.0 49.4
Woodland 1.0 l.8 3.2 4.7 6.1 7.7 8.2 7.2 5.4 3.7 1.7 1.0 51.6
Zamora 1.1 1.9 3.5 5.2 6.4 7.4 7.8 7.0 5.5 4.0 1.9 l.2 52.8
YUBA
Browns Valley 1.0 1.7 3.1 4.7 6.1 7.5 8.5 7.6 5.7 4.1 2.0 1.1 52.9
Brownsville 1.1 1.4 2.6 4.0 5.7 6.8 7.9 68 5.3 3.4 l.5 0.9 474
*The values in this table were derived from:
1) California Irrigation Management Information System (ClMIS),
2) Reference EvapoTranspiration Zones Map, UC Dept. of Land, Air & Water Resources and California Dept of Water
Resources 1999; and
3) Reference Evapotranspirat1on for Cahfomia, University of California, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources
(1987) Bulletin 1922;
4) Determining Daily Reference Evapotranspiration, Cooperative Extension UC Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources
(1987), Publication Leaflet 21426
HISTORY
1. New Appendix A filed 9-10-2009; opcrauvc 9-10-2009 pursuant to Govern-
ment Code scct1011 11343.4 (Register 2009, No 37).
2 Repealer and new Appendix A filed 9-15-2015: operative 9-15-2015 Exempt
from OAL review and subnutted to OAL for prmtmg only pursuant to Gover-
nor's Executive Order No B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015. No 38)
Page 38.14(c) Register 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 29
§ 495 BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS
Appendix B -Sample Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE WORKSHEET
This worksheet 1s filled out by the project applicant and 1t 1s a required element of the Landscape Documentation Package
Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo)
Hydrozone #
/Planting
Description"
Plant
Factor(PF)
Irrigation
Methodb
Irrigation
Efficiency
(IE)0
ETAF
(PF/IE)
Landscape ETAF x Area
Area (sq, ft,)
Estimated Total
Water Use
(ETWU)0
Regular Landscape Areas
Special Landscape Areas
a Hydrozone #/Planting Description
Eg
1 ) front lawn
2) low water use plantings
3) medium water use plantmg
blrrigation Method
overhead spray
or drip
0 MAWA (Annual Gallons Allowed) = (Eto) ( O 62) [ (ETAF x LA)
+ ((1-ETAF) x SLA)]
where 0.62 1s a conversion factor that converts acre-
inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per
year. LA 1s the total landscape area m square feet, SlA
1s the total special landscape area in square feet,
and ETAF 1s 55 for res1dent1al areas and 0 45 for non-
res1dent1al areas
ET AF Calculations
Regular Landscape Areas
Total ETAF x Area (B)
Total Area (A)
Average ETAF B.,.A
All Landscape Areas
Total ETAF x Area (B+D)
Total Area (A+C)
Sitewide ETAF (B+D) .,. (A+C)
Totals (A) (B)
Totals (C) (0)
ETWU Total
Maximum Allowed Water Allowance (MAWA)c
clmgation Efficiency
O 75 for spray head
O 81 for drip
dETWU(Annual Gallons Required)=
Eto x 0 62 x ETAF x Area
where 0 62 1s a conversion
factor that converts acre-
inches per acre per year to
gallons per square foot per
year.
Average ETAF for Regular Landscape Areas must
be 0.55 or below for residential areas, and 0.45 or
below for non-residential areas.
Title 23
HISTORY 2. Repealerand new Appendix B filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015 Exempt
I. New Appendix B filed 9-10-2009; operahvc 9-10-2009 pursuant to Govern-from OAL review and submitted to OAL for prmting only pursuant to Gover-
ment Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37). _ nor's faecut1ve Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015. No 38).
Page 38.14(d) Regi.tcr 2015, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 30
Title 23 Department of Water Resources
Appendix C -Sample Certificate of Completion.
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
This certificate 1s filled out by the project appli~ant upon completion of the landscape project.
PART 1. PROJECT INFORMATION SHEET
Date
Project Name
Name of Project Applicant Telephone No
Fax No
Title Email Address
Company Street Address
City State I Zip Code
Project Address and Location:
Street Address Parcel, tract or lot number, if available
City Latitude/Longitude (optional)
State I Zip Code
Property Owner or his/her designee:
Name Telephone No
Fax No
Title Email Address
Company Street Address
City State I Zip Code
Property Owner
"I/we certify that I/we have received copies of all the documents within the Landscape Documentation Package
and the Certificate of Completion and that 1t is our responsibility to see that the project is maintained in
accordance with the Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule."
Property Owner Signature Date
Please answer the questions below:
1. Date the Landscape Documentation Package was submitted to the local agency _____ _
2 Date the Landscape Documentation Package was approved by the local agency _____ _
3 Date that a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet (including the Water Budget Calculation) was
submitted to the local water purveyor _____ _
§ 495
Page 38.14(e) Register2015,No 38,9-18-2015 Item 12.a. - Page 31
§ 495 BARCLAYS CALIFOR.."NIA CODE OF REGULATIONS
PART 2. CERTIFICATION OF INSTALLATION ACCORDING TO THE LANDSCAPE
DOCUMENTATION PACKAGE
"I/we certify that based upon periodic site observations, the work has been completed in accordance with the
ordinance and that the landscape planting and irrigation installation conform with the criteria and specif1cat1ons of
the approved Landscape Documentation Package."
Signature* Date
Name (print) Telephone No
Fax No
Title Email Address
License No or Certification No
Company Street Address
City State I Zip Code
*Signer of the landscape design plan, signer of the irrigation plan, or a licensed landscape contractor
PART 3. IRRIGATION SCHICDULING
Attach parameters for setting the irrigation schedule on controller per ordinance Section 492 10
PART 4. SCHEDULE OF LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION MAINTENANCE
Attach schedule of Landscape and I rngation Maintenance per ordinance Section 492.11.
PART 5. LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION AUDIT REPORT
Attach Landscape Irrigation Audit Report per ordinance Section 492 12.
PART 6. SOIL MANAGEMENT REPORT
Attach soil analysis report, 1f not previously submitted with the Landscape Documentation Package per ordinance
Section 492 6.
Attach documentation verifying implementation of recommendations from soil analysis report per ordinance
Section 492.6
Title 23
HISTORY
L New Appendix C filed 9-10-2009; operative 9-10-2009 pursuant to Govern-
ment Code section 11343.4 (Register 2009, No. 37).
2 Repealer and new Appendix C filed 9-15-2015: operat1ve9-15-2015. Exempt
fiom OAL review and submitted to OAL for printing only pursuant to Gover-
nor's Executive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015, No. 38).
Page 38.14(f) Rcgi>tcr 2015, No 38. 9-18-2015 Item 12.a. - Page 32
Title 23 Department of Water Resources § 497.2
Appendix D -Prescriptive Compliance Option.
(a) This appendix contains prescriptive reqmrements winch may be
used as a compliance option to the Model Water Efficient Landscape Or-
dmance. '
(b) Compliance with the following items is mandatory and must be
documented on a landscape plan in order to use the prescriptive com-
phance option:
(I) Subimt a Landscape Documentation Package which includes the
followmg elements:
(A) date
(B) project applicant
(C) project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s))
(D) total landscape area (square feet), mcluding a breakdown of turf
and plant material
(E) project type (e.g., new. rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery,
homeowner-installed)
(F) water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the lo-
cal retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well
(G) contact mfonnation for the project applicant and property owner
(H) applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply
with the requirements of the prescriptive compliance optmn to the MWE-
LO'".
(2) Incorporate compost at a rate of at least four cubic yards per 1,000
square feet to a depth of six inches into landscape area (unless contra-111-
d1cated by a soil test),
(3) Plant material shall comply with all of the following;
(A) For residential areas, install climate adapted plants that reqmre oc-
casional, little or no sUIUmer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3)
for 75% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled wa-
ler; For non-residential areas, install climate adapted plants that require
occasmnal, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor
0.3) for l 00% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled
water;
(B) A mmimum three inch (3 ") layer of mulch shall be applied on all
exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or
rooting groundcovers, or d1rect seeding applications where mulch is con-
traindicated.
(4) Turf shall comply with all of the followmg:
(A) Turf shall not exceed 25% of the landscape area in residential
areas, and there shall be no turf in non-residential areas;
(B) Turf shall not be planted on sloped areas which exceed a slope of
l foot vertical elevatmn change for every 4 feet of horizontal length;
(C) Turf is prohibited in parkways Jess than 10 feet wide, unless the
parkway is adjacent to a parkmg stnp and used to enter and exit vehicles.
Any turf in parkways must be irrigated by sub-surface imgation or by
other technology that creates no overspray or runoff.
(5) Imgatlon systems shall comply with the following:
(A) Automatic irrigation controllers are required and must use evapo-
transpiration or soil moisture sensor data and utilize a rain sensor.
(B) Irrigation controllers shall be of a type which does not lose pro-
gramming data in the event the primary power source 1s mterrupted.
( C) Pressure regulators shall be installed on the migatmn system to en-
sure the dynamic pressure of the system is within the manufacturers rec-
ommended pressure range.
(D) Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butter-
fly valve) shall be mstalled as close as possible to the point of connection
of the water supply
(E) All 1rrigation emission devices must meet the reqmrements set 111
the ANSI standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014. "Landscape Imgation
Spnnkler and Emitter Standard," All spnnkler heads mstalled in the land-
scape must document a dtstnbution unifonnity low quarter of 0.65 or
higher usmg the protocol defined 111 ASABE!ICC 802-2014.
(F) Areas less than ten ( 10) feet in width in any direct10n shall be mi-
gated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff
or overspray.
(6) For non-residential projects with landscape areas of 1,000 sq. ft.
or more, a private submeter(s) to measure landscape water use shall be
installed.
( c) At the time of final inspect10n, the permit applicant must provide
the owner of the property with a certificate of completion, certificate of
installat10n, migation schedule and a schedule of landscape and irriga-
tion maintenance.
HISTORY
1 New Appendix D filed 9-15-2015; operative 9-15-2015. Exempt from OAL
review and subnutted to OAL forprmtmg only pursuant to Governor's Execu-
tive Order No. B-29-15 (4-1-2015) (Register 2015, No. 38)
Chapter 2. 7 .1. Flood Protection Corridor
Program of the Costa-Machado Water Act of
2000
§ 497 .1. Scope.
(a) These regulations implement Sections 79035 through 79044, and
79044.9 m Article 2.5 of Chapter 5 of Division 26 of the Waler Code,
which Division is the Costa-Machado Water Act of2000. They establish
a process for fundmg acqutsitmn of property rights and related activities
for flood protection corridor projects undertaken by the Department of
Water Resources dtrectly or through grants to local public agencies or
nonprofit organizations.
(b) The Flood Protection Corridor Program is statewide in scope.
Withm the geographic scope of the CALFED Bay-Delta Program, funds
in the subaccount for this program shall be used for projects that, to the
greatest extent possible, are consistent with the CALFED long-term plan
identified in the Programmatic Record of Decision of August 28, 2000.
NOTE Authority cited: Sections 8300. 12580 and 79044.9, Water Code, 2000 Cal.
Stat. Ch 52, Item No. 3860-101-6005; 2001 Cal Stat. Ch. 106, Item No
3860-001-0001, Provision 3; and 2002 Cal. Stat. Ch. 379, Item No
3860-101-6005. Reference. Sectrnns 79037. 79043, 79044 and 79044.9, Water
Code
HISTORY
I. New chapter2.7 I (sections 497.1--497.12) and section filed 8-19-2003; opera-
tive 8-19-2003 pursuant to Government Code section 11343 4 (Reg1ster2003.
No. 34)
§ 497.2. Definitions.
The words used in this chapter have meanmgs set forth as follows·
(a) "A List" means the preferred prionty hst of projects described in
Section 497.6
(b) "Applicant" means an entity that 1s actmg as the prmcipal party
makmg an application for fundmg under the provisions of the Costa-Ma-
chado Water Act of2000.
( c) "B List" means the reserve prionty list of projects described m Sec-
tion 497.6.
(d) "CEQA" means the Caltfornia Environmental Quality Act, Public
Resources Code Sections 21000 et seq
(e) "Department" means the Cahfomia Departlnent of Waler Re-
sources.
(i) "Director" means the D!fector of the Department of Water Re-
sources.
(g) "FEMA" means the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
(h) "Fully funded" with respect to a grant project means funded to the
full am01mt of the requested funds or to the funding limit, whichever is
less.
(i) "Grant application fonn" means the Dcpartlnent"s form entitled
"Flood Protectmn Corridor Program Project Evaluation Criteria and
Competitive Grant Application Form" dated Apnl 9, 2003 and mcorpo-
rated herem by this reference.
(j) "Local public agency" means any political subdivismn of the State
of California, mcluding but not limited to any county, city, city and
county, district, joint powers agency, or council of governments.
Page 38.14(g) Reg1>ter 2015, Ko 38, 9-IS-20i5
Item 12.a. - Page 33
§ 497.3 ' BARCLAYS CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 23
(k) "Milestone" means a time when a sigmficant portion of a project
is completed, as defined m the contract as a time for disbursement of
grant funds.
(l) "Nonprofit organization" means an organization that does not oper-
ate for profit and has no official governmental status, including but not
limited to clubs, societies, neighborhood orgamzat10ns, advisory coun-
cils, conservation organizations and privately run local community con-
servation corps.
(m) "Program" means the Flood Protection Corridor Program estab-
lished by Water Code Division 26, Chapter 5, Article 2.5.
(n) "Property interest" means any right m real property, including
easement, fee title, and any other kind ofnght acquired by legally binding
means.
( o) "Project" means all planning, engineering, acquisition of real prop-
erty interests, construction and related activities undertaken to imple-
ment a discrete action undertaken under the program pursuant to Water
Code Section 79037.
(p) "Sponsor" means an apphcant who has received grant funding
through the apphcation process described m these regulations
(q) "Subaccount" means the Flood Protect10n Corridor Subaccount
created by Water Code Section 79035(a).
NOTE· Authority cited Sections 8300, 12580 and 79044.9, Water Code Refer-
ence: Scct10ns 79035, 70937, 79038(a) and 79043, Water Code; and Sections
21000 et seq, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY
I. New section filed 8-19-2003; operative 8-19-2003 pursuant to Government
Code sect10n I I 343 4 (Register 2003, No 34).
§ 497.3. Program Management Process.
The Department selects, approves, funds, and momtors projects
funded by grants under the program. The process ofmanagmg the pro-
gram includes these steps:
(a) The Department shall appoint and maintain a Project Evaluatron
Team composed of Department staff and other consulting governmental
agencies. The Department may request consultation with any appropnate
government agency, mcluding but not limited to the Department ofCon-
servat10n, the Department of Fish and Game, the Department ofF ood and
Agriculture, the Office of Emergency Services. and the CALFED Bay-
Delta Program.
(b) Local public agencies or nonprofit orgamzations qualified under
Section 497.4 may apply for program grants for projects at such tunes as
the Department may designate. Applications for proposed projects shall
be submitted in response to a sohcitat10n issued by the Department. As
long as uncommitted funds remain available to fund new projects, the
Department shall solicit proposals at least once per calendar year. The
time period for submitting applications shall be 90 days from the date no-
tice is given by the Department that project proposals are being solicited
Notices shall be provided to cities, counties, flood control districts, recla-
mation districts, and other local government entities that manage flood
plains and flood control projects. The Department \Vill also provide no-
tice to nonprofit organizations with interest m flood management issues,
and shall send notice to all individuals and organizations that have re-
quested notice of the opportunity to submit applications. Notices may be
given by mail, electronic mail, website posting, or any other method that
provides easy access and prompt availability. Projects shall meet the re-
qmrements of Section 497.5. Applications shall meet the requirements
of Section 497.7.
(c) The Project Evaluat10n Team shall review each application and
evaluate the subject project w1thm 60 days of the close of the specified
submittal period, or within 60 days of receipt of requested additional m-
formation, whichever is later.
(d) The Project Evaluation Team shall notify the Department to re-
quest the applicant to provide additional information within 30 days of
the Department's request if:
( 1) The project appears potentially eligible but is missmg infonnation
needed to evaluate the ments of the project, or
(2) Additional information 1s needed to evaluate the merits of the proj-
ect in comparison to others received.
( e) If the requested additional infonnatron cannot be provided in 30
days, the apphcant may refile its application with the additional infornia-
t10n at the Department's next solicitat10n of proposals.
(f) When a proposal that meets minimum quahfications is complete
and all requested additional infom1ation has been supplied, the Project
Evaluation Team shall complete the evaluation of the project including
recommendmg its place on a pri01ity list as described in Sect10n 497 .6.
(g) After each solicitation of proposals. Department staff, usmg the
evaluations and recommended pnontrcs of the Project Evaluation Team,
shall recommend projects, pnonty, and amounts per pro_1ect to be funded
and submit the recommendations to the Director for approval ofthepnor-
ity lists Department staff may recommend:
[The next page 1s 38.J 5.]
Page 38.14(h) RegMer 20i5, No 38, 9-18-2015
Item 12.a. - Page 34
SAN LUIS OBISPO GUIDE TO
THE USE OF
ATTACHMENT 2
GRAYWATER
Vegetated leach field , page 15. Constructed wetland reed beds, page 21-22.
SLO Botanic Garden build ing uses a constructed wetland water reclamation system creat ing
riparian habitat page , 21-22.
Item 12.a. - Page 35
This is the first of an educational series regarding water and waste applications of appropriate technology for San Luis Obispo County.
Appropriate technology is defined as:
Applying technology to address problems related to energy use, the water cycle, and affordable
building at the smallest and most accessible scale possible.
These guidelines are being developed by the San Luis Obispo Coalition of Appropriate Technology _(SLO-COAT) to specifically
address efforts to maintain a healthy hydrologic cycle in San Luis Obispo County.
SLO-COAT is a joint effort by SLO Green Build, the San Luis Bay Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation and the Santa Lucia Chapter
of the Sierra Club. The inform~tion presented is for general education purposes. ·Final details and construction must be developed and
designed for specific site conditions; therefore, SLO-COAT is hereby indemnified from any liability arising from the use of this
information.
SuifJjder
Foundation ..
Cover images (clockwise from top left) courtesy of Carmichael Environmental Des1gn/Bmld, Greg McMillan and San Lms Sustainability Group Architects
Item 12.a. - Page 36
HISTORY
During Jeny Brown's Administration in California from 1972 to 1980,
the State Office of Appropriate Technology was developed. OAT as it
was called was headed by Sim Van der Ryn, the State Architect at the
time. OAT encouraged the application of appropriate technologies to
address the economic and environmental concerns of development.
SITUATION
The dismantling of OAT by the next administration in 1980 proved to be
short-sighted given the ongoing concerns about energy and the double
threat of climate change coupled with peak fossil fuel supply. The water
imbalances in San Luis Obispo County have become evident as many
municipalities implement water rationing policies. Growth has always
been naturally restrained due to scarce water resources in the County, so
increased infrastructure costs burden new development. Fortunately,
over the past thirty years, the research and refinement of appropriate
technologies have much to offer us today.
SLO-COAT believes it is imperative that we revisit, at a local scale, the
encouragement and application of appropriate technology. San Luis
Obispo County is in a position to be at the forefront of these efforts to
reconcile growth and environmental quality. This San Luis Obispo Guide
to the Use of Graywater was produced to encourage the use of graywater
in a safe and legal manner.
Contributing members of SLO-COAT· Ken Haggard-Architect & Planner, Mikel
Robertson-General Contractor & Green Building Material Specialist, Rachel
Alj1lani-LEED AP, Joshua Carmichael-Landscape Designer & Contractor
Special thanks to:
Brad Lancaster, Art Ludwig, Brock Dolman and Johnathan Todd who have
helped educate our community on the current trends in appropriate technology
applications and regulatwns. Of course this would not be possible without the
support of SLO-COAT members· Mladen Bandov, Andrew Christie, Mary
Fullwood, Cheryl Lenhardt, Steve Paige, Scott Peterson, Lawson Schaller,
Jessica Steely, Karen Venditti, Sam Studer, and the numerous family and friends
who are also concerned about water resources and sustainable development.
Item 12.a. - Page 37
r
' rl i
"·
PACIFIC OCEAN
salt water intrusion aquifer recharge
CUESTA RIDGE
I
aquifer recharge
WEST TO EAST SECTION
-""" -~---------------
Th e Greening of San Luis Obispo sketch by Ken Haggard
PAGE 1
Item 12.a. - Page 38
SALINAS RIVER
precip itation
SHED
SALINAS VALLE'!'
A healthy hydrologic cycle provides fresh water in
the form of precipitation and condensation. This
water is transmitted to riparian systems consisting of
rivers and streams which in turn charge underground
aquifers. In its natural state, this cycle creates healthy
watersheds , prevents erosion, stabilizes salt water
intrusion and supports rich ecological systems.
Increased built areas usually accentuate adverse
changes to the natural hydrologic cycle; therefore , it
becomes of vital necessity for us to mimic the natural
hydrologic cycle, using the same processes regarding
water movement, filtration, and storage.
I
J
SAN
CARRIZO PLAIN ANDREAS
,
FAULT
LOWES T
RA I NFA LL ... -1
CLOS ED WATER SHED
CARRIZO PLAIN
SODA LAKE
aquifer recharge
Application of appropriate technologies as described in this
guide can allow development while still maintaining a healthy
hydrologic cycle. In addition to graywater, appropriate
technology topics related to a healthy water ecology are :
Low Impact Development
Rainwater Harvesting
Waterless Waste Treatment
Bioremediation Strategies
Look forward to more information and educational events
presented by SLO-COAT on these topics. If you would like to
become involved contact SLO Green Build through the web
at www.slo~reenbuild .or~
PAGE 2
Item 12.a. - Page 39
INTRODUCTION
WHAT IS GRAYWATER?
blackwater graywater
Graywater is untreated household or
building waste water that has not come in
contact with toilet or kitchen sink waste.
Essentially, graywater is soapy water
from washing machines, bathroom sinks,
bathtubs, and showers. Graywater should
not be stored as it will quickly become
foul and turn into blackwater unless
treated. Graywater is kept separate from
blackwater, which comes from kitchen
sinks, dishwashers and toilets.
Blackwater is not safe for reuse without
more elaborate procedures for treatment
& filtration. All graywater systems must
be valved to send water to either the
graywater distribution area or the sewer/
septic (blackwater) line. Most plumbing
combines the wastewater from all
fixtures to flow together into either a
sewer system or a septic tank. Although
combined wastewater (graywater and blackwater) can be treated and reused, the
rigorous standards, system costs and permitting requirements for this type of water
recycling are prohibitive for most homeowners. In comparison, a graywater system
offers an effective way to reuse your wastewater with minimal cost and effort. The
graywater designs presented in this guide can provide you with a better understanding
for developing your own graywater system.
IS GRAYWATER LEGAL? ... YES!!!
There is an increased demand for water due to population and
economic growth. In addition, pollution of and reduction in
the water table has adversely affected our once balanced
ecosystems, making water an increasingly important and
valuable natural resource. Clean potable water is the most
valuable type of water, but graywater is useful in meeting our
water needs as well. Graywater should not be considered a
waste product because it is a valuable resource that can be
1. Lower water utility bills for home or
business occupants
2. Potential for landscape irrigation
3 ~ Groundwater or aquifer recharge
4. Reduced strain on septic or sewer
systems which in turn lower energy
loads at central treatment plants
( 5. Bioremediation strategies can clean
water and enhance the local ecology
PAGE 3
WHY IS GRAYWATER SO IMPORTANT?
applied to irrigation and other non-potable water uses.
Harvesting graywater to meet your non-potable water
demand utilizes an appropriate technology that can recover
initial costs quickly. The added benefits to your watershed
and community infrastructure make having a graywater
system an environmentally friendly solution to scarce water
supplies, since more than half of your indoor water can be
reused as graywater. It's time to tap into graywater!
Item 12.a. - Page 40
~
Introduction ....................................................................................................... 3-4
How to Get Started ............................................................................................ 5-6
Calculations & Standards .................................................................................. 7-8
Graywater Process & Design Options ........................................................... 9-10
CARD: RECIPE CARDS FOR OPTIONS SHOWN ON PAGE 8 fT ;l
l)''A . I s 'r nk 0 . 1 . urge ia pt1ons .......................................................................................... 1
. . j
' ' k: s· .:· Distribution Options ....................................................................................... 11 I .
I::·· .C "'I Branched System ............................................................................................. 12
~t· . : :1
:· .. D j Flower Pot Emitter .......................................................................................... 13 fl I , I !.·:'E · Mini-Leach Field ............................................................................................. 14
11:
l .F r· ..
'
·I,;,;•·
1·• G
! r
t · H
l'
1
:-1
'
·! •i , .....
!
I
11:.: I l
F_, , F !
1 J' I
1 ·1 i'l
Vegetated Leach Field ..................................................................................... 15
Mulched Watering Moat ................................................................................. 16
Tree Watering Moat ......................................................................................... 17
Infiltration Galley ............................................................................................ 18
Drip System with Rewatering ................................................................... 19-20
1+> . . .
..,.: --'K.,,,·_· ·-+-! _R=ee=d"-'B=e=d=s ................................................................................................... 21-22
rw 1
:-.L 1
r:~ . l
; .1M
Washing Machine Sump ................................................................................. 23
In House Use of Graywater ............................................................................ 24
Checklist ............................................................................................................. 25
Summary & References ....................................................................................... 26
Appendix 1 -Detergents for Graywater Systems ................................................ 27
Appendix 2 -Plants for Graywater Systems ....................................................... 28
Glossary of Graywater Terms ......................................................................... 29-31
This guide has been set-up in a way that allows you to consider options that are appropriate for your specific site
conditions and graywater resources, pages 7-10.
Once you choose a graywater system that is right for you, then you can use the recipe cards to determine the components
and overall design.
PAGE 4
Item 12.a. - Page 41
1
2
H 0 W T 0
~to Develop Your Own Graywater System
' __/
Reference page
Adopt a baseline conservation program. ___________________ ?
Do a few calculations to determine:
a. Graywater flow. _________________________ 7
b. Soil absorption capacity & distribution area. 8
c. Site planning issues. 8
Evaluate system options to determine the solution for your situation. _________ 10
Draw up your chosen system using page 8 and the recipe cards., ___________ 11-24
Use the checklist provided to' refine your design. ________________ .25
Provide and keep an operations and maintenance manual for your system. This manual shall remain with
the building throughout the life of the system and upon change of ownership, the new owner shall be
notified the structure contains a graywater system. [Ref 9J
Apply and obtain a permit from the County or your City (ifnecessary).
Construct your system.
Operate & maintain your system.
0 Enjoy your graywater use and educate others about the process and benefits.
PAGE S
Item 12.a. - Page 42
' You can use graywater, it is legal under state regulations. This guide illustrates how to design, permit and maintain your
own graywater system as interpreted by the California State Graywater law [ref 4J·
Maintaining and Using Graywater
CJ Graywater should be avoided when irrigating edibles in your landscape. [Ref 9J
CJ Avoid planting invasive water loving plants (pampas grass, Arunda donax, scotch broom, etc.).
CJ Avoid using graywater in hoses that can be used to wash or play with.
CJ Potable and graywater supply pipes should never be connected.
CJ Graywater that has come in contact with soiled diapers is blackwater.
CJ Corrugated pipes for graywater discharge should be avoided, they slow the flow.
CJ Use a subsurface drip system when irrigating lawns.
CJ In general, tilling organic matter into soil that comes in contact with graywater is good.
Detergents & Cleaners !ref. 11
Additional information regarding the composition of detergents can be found in appendix 1-Detergents for Graywater
Systems, page 27.
Hand soaps and shampoos by and large do not damage plants or clog soil profiles, in fact graywater is a light fertilizer.
Laundry detergents commonly have sodium and boron which are chemicals that can have a negative effect on landscapes.
The following are detergents or cleaners to avoid:
CJ Bleaches or softeners
CJ Detergents that advertise whitening, softening, and enzymatic powers
CJ Detergents with the following ingredients: boron, borax, chlorine, bleach, petroleum distillers, sodium and
peroxygen
CJ Products designed to open clogs without scrubbing
CJ Water softeners that use sodium chloride
Plants that Typically Love Graywater !ref. 11
Oleander, bougainvillea, fan and date palms, rosemary, roses, agapanthus, Bermuda grass, honeysuckle, Australian tea
tree, Italian stone, oaks, Arizona cypress, cottonwood, olive, ice plant, juniper, purple hopseed, manzanita, ceanothus,
rushes, coffeeberry, toyon, western redbud, california wax myrtel, penstemon.
Plants that Typically Don't Like Graywater rref. tl
Rhododendron, bleeding hearts, wood sorrel, hydrangeas, azaleas, violets, impatiens, begonias, ferns, foxgloves,'
gardenias, philodendron, camellias, primroses, crape mertyle, redwoods, star jasmine, holly and deoder cedar.
For more information on graywater plants, see appendix 2-Plants for Graywater Systems, page 28.
PAGE 6
Item 12.a. - Page 43
C D N S E R .VAT I 0 N F I R S T ; T H E N ----·
Bathrooms
IJ Check for leaks from pipes and
faucets, the smallest drip can
waste up to 2 gallon's per day!
IJ Install dual-flush or ultra low
flow toilets.
IJ Install low-flow faucets or faucet
aerators.
IJ Tum off water while brushing
your teeth and shaving.
IJ Take 5 minute or shorter showers
and tum water off during and
while soaping.
Kitchen
IJ Scrape rather than rinse dishes
before placing-them in the
dishwasher.
IJ · Do not thaw frozen food under
running water.
IJ When hand washing dishes, fill ,
one basin with soapy water and
the other with rinse water.
IJ Install Energy Star rated
dishwasher and only wash full
loads.
IJ Avoid running water
continuously while washing
dishes.
Laundry
IJ Install Energy Star clothes
washer and set water volume to
the minimum requirement per
load.
IJ Use short water cycles for
lightly soiled loads.
IJ Pre-treat stains to avoid multiple
washings.
IJ Soak heavily soiled items in a
sink one third full to prewash.
PAGE 7
STEP 1: BASELINE CONSERVATION
Before incorporating graywater into your lifestyle, first start off by adopting a
baseline conservation plan. Conservation is the most affordable technology and
practices are readily available that require little if any behavior change. Most water
providers have programs to help you conserve that offer free or discounted low
flow shower heads, faucet aerators, toilet tummies and more.
While this document does not attempt to provide a thorough cost benefit analysis,
we recognize it is a worthwhile consideration. Cost/benefit will vary greatly
depending on the graywater system selected, the local cost of water and the
volumes utilized. Some systems are very simple, low cost and can be done by the
homeowner with few new parts and supplies, or by integrating salvaged/used
materials. Other systems are more complex, requiring professional installation, and
expensive components. Regardless of the system selected and the volumes utilized,
the user will have the satisfaction and benefit of reusing water, helping the
environment, and having a drought resistant supply during mandatory watering
restrictions.
STEP 2: CALCULATIONS A-Graywater Flow
Using the number of bedrooms in your residence provides an estimate of the
graywater flow for typical households:
Enter the number of bedrooms =
Calculate the number of occupants = C::::J
• Start with two (2) occupants for the first bedroom
• Add one (1) occupant for each add1t1onal bedroom
Graywater can be estimated as generated from each occupant on a daily
basis. Choose from the following list of sources based on your graywater system.
Each graywater flow estimate is based per occupant.
Showers, bathtubs, wash basins & clothes washer
Showers, bathtubs & wash basins (only)
Clothes washer (only)
~5 gallqns ger d(!y]
Q'~_g~llons ger-aa~
M..9~lfon5 ger cia"Yi
Multiply the number of occupants by the estimated graywater flow in gallons
per day (gpd) per occupant to determine the total estimated graywater flow.
Number of
occupants x
x
Graywater flow
per occupant
gpd
=
=
Total estimated
graywater flow
gpd
For example, the graywater flow for a four-bedroom main house, which includes
all fixtures such as showers, sinks, and clothes washer, and a one-bedroom guest
house, which includes only a shower and sink, is estimated :
Main House (4 bedroom)· 5 occupants x
Guest House (1 bedroom)· 2 occupants x
40 gpd per occupant
25 gpd per occupant
TOTAL GRAYWATER
200 gpd
50 gpd
250 gpd
Item 12.a. - Page 44
c·ALCULATIDNS & STANDARDS·
STEP 2: CALCULAJIONS B -Soil Absorption Capacity & Distribution Area
Design the graywater system based on the soil and groundwater conditions of the
property. Select an area within the property boundaries to be used for irrigation or
disposal of the graywater. The surface and subsurface soil must be suitable to accept the
design flow of graywater. The fundamental soil characteristic is the percolation rate,
which indicates how fast the soil can absorb water. Soil types like fine sand or sandy loam
have better percolation rates than clay, for instance. Better percolation rates mean that less
area will be required to adequately disperse all the graywater.
Percolation Rate Table:
Percolation Test Infiltration Type 18"Wide Subsurface Drip
Soil Type Results Irrigation Mini-Leachfield System
(min/inch) ( sf/gpd) (linear ft/ gpd) ( sf/gpd)
0-4 not allowed -too fast
Coarse sand or 5-ll 0.20 0.13 0.82 gravel
Fine sand 12-17 0.25 0.17 0.95
Sandy loam 18-23 0.40 0.27 1.22
Sandy clay 24-47 0.60 0.40 1.50
Clay with
considerable sand 48-59 0.90 0.60 2.18
or gravel
Clay with small
amount 60 1.20 0.80 2.72
of sand or gravel
61 + not allowed -too slow
STEP 2: CALCULATIONS C -Site Planning frer. 41
Percolation Test Procedures
Select percolation test locations
in the area to be used for
graywater disposal. Dig a few
test holes (8"-12" diameter) to
the same depth as the bottom of
the disposal area. Cover the hole
bottom with 2" of gravel. Pre-
soak holes overnight. During the
test, fill the holes at least 8 " -l 0"
above the gravel. Usmg a stake
marked at l/4" intervals,
measure the falling water level
at 30 minute intervals while re-
filling after each measurement.
Obtain at least 12 measurements
(i.e., a perc test is at least 6
hours long.) The drop during the
fmal 30-minute interval is the
calculated percolation rate
converted to minutes per inch.
For sandy soils where the water
level drops faster than 6" in 25
minutes, take 12 measurements
every 10 minutes.
To locate your existing utility lines for your plot plan, call
811 or visit www.call811.com
Minimum Horizontal Distance From Surge Irrigation
Tank (feet) Field (feet)
Buildings or structures 1 52 83
Property line adjoining private property 5 5
IVVater supply wells 4 50 100
Streams and lakes 4 50 50
Seepage pits or cesspools 5 5
Disposal field and 100% expansion area 5 4s
Septic tank 0 56
On-site domestic water service line 5 51
Pressure public water main 10 108
Water ditches 50 50
~When mmi-leach fields are installed in sloping ground, the mimmum horizontal distance between any part of the distnbution system and ground
surface shall be 15 feet.
1 Including porches and steps, whether covered or uncovered, but does not mclude carports, covered walks, driveways and sunilar structures
2 The distance may be reduced to zero feet for aboveground tanks 1f approved by the Administrative Authority.
3 The distance may be reduced to two feet, with a water barrier, by the Administrative Authority, upon consideration of the soil expansion index.
4 Where special hazards are involved, the distance may be increased by the Admimstrative Authority.
5 Apphes to the mini-leach-field type system only. Plus two feet for each additional foot of depth m excess of one foot below the bottom of the drain line.
6 Applies to mini-leach-field type system only.
7 A two foot separation is required for subsurface drip systems.
8 For parallel construction or for crossings, approval by the Admmistrat1ve Authority shall be reqmred.
9 Minimum separation from highest known groundwater is five feet.
*Drip systems may allow for a reduction in setbacks.
PAGE 8
Item 12.a. - Page 45
PARTS 0 F A GRAYWATER
1.".-------•--,.,.---.,.----~--,...--. -~----~ -----~ ~---------· __ .,_ r ~
Collection of
Graywater
Individual
plumbing of
laundry or shower/
tub or sinks
-or-
Dual plumbing
whole house
(especially
recommended for
new construc~ion)
Provide Surge
Capacity
gravity surge tank
-or-
pumped surge tank
-or-
surge capacity in
the distribution
system (i.e.
branched irrigation
system)
Salt Build Up -What to do?
Filtration
Disk or in-line
-filter
-or-
Bag, mesh or fabric ·
filter
-or-
Gravity sand filter
-or-
Pressurized sand
filter
Distribution
Gravity fed
-or-
Pumped
-or-
Siphoned
Salt builds up in the soils of graywater systems, especially in warmer areas. Salt
can be leached out by flushing the system with fresh water. You might be
surprised to find out that approximately every 1000 square feet of property can
yield 600 gallons of water in a 1 inch rain storm. By directing the flow ofour
roof's drip lines, gutters, and driveways into the landscape via depressions or
basins, instead of mounds, the graywater system is flushed naturally and salt
build up does not become a problem. ·
PAGE 9
SYSTEM
Using Graywater
Irrigation and
aquifer recharge
by
Mini leach field
-or-
Branched system
-or-
Watering Moat
-or-
Field consisting of
a drip system
-or-
Reed bed
-or-
Washing machine
sump
' Use in the building
" (toilet flushing)
Cistern Mode
-or-
commercially
available tank
-' Aquifer Recharge '
& septic system
relief
Galley System
Item 12.a. - Page 46
DESIGN 0 F YOUR GRAYWATER SYSTEM
This page shows the basic components of all graywater systems and some options available to you. Choose the best
option for your site, soil type, financial resources and maintenance preferences. Once a system is chosen, you can use
the recipe cards for details of construction.
NOTES:
BASELINE CONSERVATION IS THE PREREQUISITE AND
FIRST STEP IN GRAYWATER UTLIZATION.
GRAYWATER SHOULD NOT BE STORED BUT SHOULD
BE UTILIZED AS FAST AS YOU CAN PROCESS IT.
ALL GRAYWATER SYSTEMS NEED TO HAVE A VALVE
TO SWITCH TO YOUR SEPTIC OR SEWER SYSTEM.
THE SURGE TANK ALLOWS YOU TO TEMPORARILY
HOLD GRAYWATER IF THE FLOW EXCEEDS YOUR
ABILITY TO UTILIZE IT
DUAL FIELDS ARE USED IN LEACH AREAS FOR
IRRIGATION TO GIVE ADEQUATE ABSORPTION TIME
TO EACH SIDE. THE FLOW IS CONTROLLED BY A
DISTRIBUTION OPTION SHOWN ON PAGE 11.
DIAGRAM OF SYSTEM DPT/ONS REFERENCE
RECIPE/PAGE
CARD #
HOUSE WITH BASELINE CONSERVATION ___ 9
GRAYWATER
ESTIMATING DISCHARGE---------9
EVALUATING SOIL CONDITIONS 1 0
SITE STANDARDS & PLANNING 1 0
SWITCH VALVE
SURGE TANK & DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS
A. SURGE TANK OPTIONS A
1-----B. DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS B
C. BRANCHED SYSTEM (NO SURGE TANK) __ C
UTILIZATION OPTIONS
(OTHER THAN THE BRANCHED SYSTEM)
1 . LEACH OPTIONS FOR IRRIGAIJQN
D. FLOWER POT EMITTER------D
E. MINI-LEACH FIELD E
F. VEGETATED LEACH FIELD F
G. MULCHED WATERING MOAT G
H. TREE WATERING MOAT H
I. INFILTRATION GALLEY I
11
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
THE DRIP SYSTEM REQUIRES A PUMPED SURGE TANK ----+---o----J. DRIP SYSTEM FIELD J
TO MINIMIZE CLOGGING. K. REED BEDS K
18
19-20
21-22
23
IN-HOUSE UTILIZATION CAN BE FOR TOILET
FLUSHING WITH EXCESS FLOWS TO IRRIGATION
SYSTEMS
AL THOUGH NOT HELPFUL FOR IRRIGATION, A
TRADITIONAL LEACH FIELD CAN BE USED TO TAKE
SOME LOAD OFF OF A SEWER SYSTEM OR RECHARGE
THE LOCAL AQUIFER.
L. WASHING MACHINE SUMP. L
2.JN-HOUSE UTILIZATION
M. GRAYWATER TOILET FLUSHING ____ M 24
New technologies are constantly being refined and improved.
PAGE 10
Item 12.a. - Page 47
graywater
in
GRAVITY
unglued coupling
to allow basket
removal
valve
to sewer
or septic
tank
min. 55 gal. tank of
polyethylene, fiberglass
coated metal or
stainless steel
SURGE CAPACITY
A -SURGE TANK
--------------------------------------
locking ring lid
--wire hooks to
12" to 18"
fine wire mesh
basket
valve
to leach
Ct::=:;ld
graywater
in
l
PUMPED
mesh filter
bag
min. 55 gal. tank of/
polyethylene, fiberglass
coated metal or
lo sewer or stainless steel
se tic tank
locking ring lid
NOTE: venting
and optimal ,
activated 1
carbon air filter I
not shown
[ref.1]
All graywater systems need to be able to handle the peak flows, or surge capacity, from the various plumbing fixtures. For
most homes, a surge capacity of 45 gallons is sufficient. For instance, a 10-minute shower could generate 20-50 gallons of
graywater at a time. Use the estimated daily flow rates as a guide for the surge capacity needed. If daily water use
combines showers, bathing, and laundry all at the same time, the surge capacity should be adjusted accordingly.
Graywater systems without sufficient surge capacity will cause pipes to backup.
SURGE TANKS
Surge tanks are the standard solutions for providing surge capacity, usually ranging between 30 to 55 gallons. Specific
construction details and requirements including a conceptual diagram are given in the plumbing code. The surge tanks
shown in this guide are examples and might not include all the permit requirements such as venting, backwater valves,
bracing, labeling, etc. Multiple tanks could be joined together to provide additional surge capacity.
In addition to the inlet and outlet ports, surge tanks also have an emergency drain valve and overflow outlet, which
connect to the main sewer line. The overflow outlet should not have a valve and remain permanently open to the main
sewer line, while other valves can be operated during cleaning and other maintenance activities.
Surge tanks can be gravity-fed or pump-based distribution as well as have various filter configurations. Inadequate
filtration and clogged pumps are two issues with the pump surge tank. Using pumps designed for wastewater such as
effluent pumps are expensive but last longer than cheaper well water or sump pumps. Filters should be sized to minimize
the change-out/cleaning frequency. Even with the best level of filtration, subsurface drip systems are likely to clog over
time, so systems using an automated sand filtration with backwash capabilities fair even better than the prescribed drip
system from the plumbing code.
PAGE 1 1
Item 12.a. - Page 48
B -DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS
Distribution is automatic in the branched system shown on
recipe card C, but with the other absorption systems,
distribution must be regulated to a give adequate time to each
absorption area. This is done by a distribution box (D-box). A
distribution box evenly splits the flow of graywater between
absorption areas therefore they should be installed perfectly
level on undisturbed ground. Pre-made D-boxes have 4"
diameter inlet and outlet pipes with the inlet 1" higher than
the outlets. Various options are shown below:
Valve Control "Y" Outlet D-Box w/ Multiple Outlets
Automatic system for splitting Automatic system for splitting
flows equally between 2 flow equally between more
absorption areas. than 2 areas.
C -BRANCHJ;:D SYSTE:M
BRANCHED DRAIN SYSTEM
D-Box w/ Dipper Option
This system provides automatic:·
1.5 gal surge to help prevent :
the build up of solids. *
available commercially as
Polylok dipper box.
[ref. 1]
Surge capacity can be provided in the distribution plumbing and the receiving landscape if properly designed. Careful
calculations are necessary to ensure that flow splitting and distribution piping function as intended and that piping fittings
and slopes are installed properly. Constant slopes, adequately-sized outlets, and precise flow splitting are among the
challenges with this approach to providing adequate surge capacity. The Branched Drain System, detailed by Art Ludwig,
uses special double ell flow splitters, dipper boxes, and free-flow outlets such as a mulched moat system. Other emitters
can also be used provided all the surge capacity is met. This option necessitates a sloped topography where lower elevation
areas receive more water and should be planted accordingly.
--. ----'"
This is the only system that doesn't
' require a surge tank since the capacity of
i the system is great· ·
'
Various emitters such as the flower pot emitter, tree watering moat, or
infiltration galley can be used at terminal ends of the branched system.
:
i
I
1
1
-As the bottom emitter fills
to capacity, the graywater i fills up the system
activating the higher
emitters; therefore, the
system must be on a slope.
~·~ .....
---' i ,) '-....., I
"~ ~ ·~-~ • e:...cc(V'-1....... ..•••~ ~Li:.£\11:3;..,.
Absorption by the use of mini_-leach fields as
shown in reci e card E is also ri..,o.,.s:;;,si;.;:;b,..le •. ___ .,.... ......... rre_1._2...,,...l
THE FOLLOWING RELATIVE RATING GUIDE WILL HELP YOU COMPARE THE VARIOUS UTILIZATION OPTIONS, LOOK FOR THESE IMAGES AT THE TOP OF THE RECIPE CARDS
LEAST (Cf!) TO MOST ((f) (fJ (f)) ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE
LOW(~) TO HIGH(~~~) COMPLEXITY OF DESIGN, INSTALLATION OR MAINTENANCE
LOW($} TO HIGH ($ $ $) COST FOR MATERIALS
PAGE 1 2
Item 12.a. - Page 49
SUSTAINABILTY: ~ ~
COMPLEXITY: ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $
D -FLOWER PDT EMITTER
existing grade
drip irrigation hose -""""'~---
3/ 4" diameter PVC
pipe or garden hose
mulch
coupling prevents
removal of hose
.e..ru:,.i.1.....,..v;-4--mini-leach pit with 1"
basin area
calculate infiltration
rate using this area
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
•
Best suited for small tree or shrub groups with deep roots systems
Works best with gravity surge tank, pumped surge tank or branched drain system
Potential beneficial reuse of flower pots, buckets, or similar containers
gravel or river rock
[ref. 2]
The flower pot emitter is a passive outlet from the distribution lines after a surge tank (or branched drain system). If each
emitter is at the end of a branching pipe, careful flow control is needed to prevent overflowing at any single outlet. Trees
and shrubs with deep root system benefit the most from this simple system. Ball valves or other control devices can be
used to regulate flow to each emitter. ·
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow (4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 0.40)
Design area for flower pot emitter
Minimum number of emitters (i.e., 80 -:-9)
INSTALLATION
200
0.40
80
9
9
gallons per day (gpd)
gpd per square foot
square feet
square feet per emitter
flower pot emitters (rounded up)
Fill a pit with clean gravel or river rock (minimum 1 ") at least 1 foot deep and 3 feet on each side. Cover the gravel with
filter fabric. Place a flower pot (minimum 5 gallons) upside down on the filter fabric. Use 3/4" PVC pipe and a coupling to
secure the pipe inside of the pot. Use a ball valve to help regulate the graywater flow to each emitter. Cover the gravel and
filter fabric with mulch or soil at least 9 inches above the bottom of the flower pot.
MAINTENANCE
Clear mulch or soil to expose flower pot, lift up and clean out any clogging material. Replace filter fabric if needed. Flush
out pipes and ball valves with clean water when flow is restricted.
PAGE 13
Item 12.a. - Page 50
E -.MINI-LEACH FIELD
SUSTAINABILTY: ~
I COMPLEXITY: ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $
soil backfill
.5 ~
CROSS. SECTION
from surge
tank
E E
LONGITUDINAL SECTION
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
Best suited for straight rows of vegetation
Works best with filtered gravity surge tank
1 00' maximum
--·--.. ·----------------
3" dia. or 4 11 dia. max. perforated drain pipe of
ABS, PVC, or HDPE install level with contours
max. slope of 3"/ 100'
irrigation
box
removable ,
cap
90 I
degree;
sweep ,
el~ow .I
OBSERVATION PORT (option 1)
[ref. 1]
•
•
Most beneficial for high flows, groundwater recharge or septic tank relief
Detailed requirements provided in the plumbing code for simplified permitting
The mini-leachfield is a standard design similar to a septic system leachfield with a few differences, including shallower
placement. The mini-leachfield has low irrigation efficiency (i.e., most of the water drains away instead of used by the
vegetation). Factors such as root intrusion, clogging potential, and the amount of imported gravel or stone overshadow the
maintenance and sustainability benefits (compared to other designs.)
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow ( 4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 0.40)
INSTALLATION
200
0.27
54
gallons per day (gpd)
gpd per square foot for standard 18" wide trench
linear feet (18" wide trench)
Install valves to allow for switching between irrigation zones. Level each leach field along contours to allow for even
distribution, with a maximum slope of 3" per 100'. Use non-corrugated PVC perforated pipe (minimum 3", maximum 4")
with holes facing down. Install a 90 degree sweep elbow fitting to the surface with a removable cap as an observation port
(optional). Fill a trench (minimum 12", maximum 36" width) with clean stone or gravel at 17" (or 18") below the surface
for a 3" (or 4") PVC pipe. Place the PVC pipe on a 3" layer of gravel (3/4" to 2" diameter) with at least a 2" layer over the
PVC pipe. Cover the gravel with filter fabric. Backfill with soil to the surface with a 9" minimum cover.
MAINTENANCE
Remove invading roots using the observation ports when needed.
PAGE 14
Item 12.a. - Page 51
F -VEGETATEQ LEACH FIELD
SUSTAINABILTY: @@
COMPLEXITY ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $
---.. -----------------------------
' ' l <?
I
L
shrub rush
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
•
Best suited for larger lots (or long runs) with well-designed landscaping
Works best with filtered gravity surge tank
Uses gravel or stone material for an aesthetic dry creek-type feature
herb
[ref.1]
The vegetated leachfield is similar to the mini-leachfield using perforated p1pmg to distribute graywater to the
surrounding landscape. Native grasses, sedges and shrubs suitable for wetland and drier conditions are located according
to root access and proximity to the leachfield pipe. Stormwater flows along the swale during rainy periods to help flush
out accumulated salt and sediment.
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow ( 4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 0.40)
Design length for vegetated leachfield
Minimum length required (i.e., 80 -0.5)
INSTALLATION
200
0.40
80
0.5
160
gallons per day (gpd)
gpd per square foot
square feet
square feet per linear foot of
6-inch wide trench
linear feet of vegetated leachfield
Note: maximum single run is 100 feet
Create a depression (swale) along contour lines in the soil and mounded sides. Lay down a French drain (3" perforated
PVC pipe, non-corrugated) in a 6" wide trench at 6" below the swale bottom. Connect pipes from graywater and roof
runoff sources at a minimum 2% slope. Cover perforated pipe with filter fabric to prevent clogging. Place amended soil on
top of the planting areas. Plant wetland-type plants at the bottom of the swale and upland-type plants along the mounded
banks. Cover entire swale with 4" to 6" river rock and gravel mulch, with at least 9" directly over the perforated pipe.
Install vault boxes at the ends of the pipe runs.
MAINTENANCE
Regular landscape maintenance and garden upkeep required during the growing seasons. Flush out at seasonal intervals
and check for clogging and root intrusion. Most wetland plants get cut to the ground every winter. Trees and shrubs get
pruned back as needed. Remove debris collected from vault boxes at the ends of the pipe.
PAGE 15
Item 12.a. - Page 52
G -MULCHED WATERING MOAT
SUSTAINABILTY: ~ ~ ~
COMPLEXITY: ~
MATERIALS COST: $ ·
------·------~-----
E
::3
graywater hose or PVC pipe ,..E ,.. .
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
Best suited for small flows from single individual plumbing sources
Works best with filtered gravity surge tank or branched drain system
Potential beneficial reuse of woods chips, bark, or other mulch material
·2
E
00
shrubs
,..
The mulched watering moat is the simplest passive outlet yet requires regular maintenance to remove and replace
decomposed mulch material. Whether plumbed from individual sources or an entire graywater system, each mulched
watering moat needs to have well-draining soils (i.e., little or no clay) and sufficient surge capacity to prevent water from
surfacing.
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow (4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 0.40)
Designed area for mulched watering moat
Minimum number of moats (i.e., 80 -9)
INSTALLATION
200 gallons per day (gpd)
0 .40 gpd per square foot
80 square feet
9 square feet per moat
9 watering moats (rounded up)
Fill a pit with clean gravel, river rock, bark, or wood chips (minimum 2") 3 feet wide on each side at ground surface. Use
soil to create a berm at least 9" above the surface, with a maximum 2:1 slope to the pit bottom. Place 3/4" PVC pipe at
least 9" below the ground surface into the moat. Use a screen around the outlet area to keep out pests.
MAINTENANCE
Flush the mulched moats periodically to reduce salt build up. Remove decomposed mulch material and replace with new
material as necessary. Check for clogging and root intrusion at the pipe outlet.
PAGE 16
Item 12.a. - Page 53
SUSTAINABILTY: ~ ~ ~
COMPLEXITY: ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
H -TREE WATERING MOAT
SECTION
~xisting grade
,
;PLAN
l ,
flower pot or bucket
with open bottom
(min. S gal.)
•
•
Best suited for high flow volumes and irrigation of trees and large shrubs
Works best with gravity surge tank or branched drain system
• Potential beneficial reuse of woods chips, bark, or other mulch material
percolation test at this
location to get infiltration
rate for 2' x 6' area 18"
deep ( 1 2 sq. ft. of
absorption area)
[ref.1
The tree watering moat is similar to the flower pot design with a larger basin for better percolation. Each tree watering
moat needs to have well-draining soils (i.e., little or no clay) and sufficient surge capacity to prevent water from surfacing.
Planning the location of the moats requires knowing the tree canopy size (or dripline) at maturity.
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow ( 4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 0.40)
Designed area for tree watering moat
Minimum number of moats (i.e., 80 -12)
INSTALLATION
200
0.40
80
12
7
gallons per day (gpd)
gpd per square foot
square feet
square feet per tree watering moat
tree watering moats (rounded up)
Dig a rectangular pit at 2 feet wide by 6 feet long at least 12" below the natural surface. Slope the sides at a maximum of3
feet horizontally for each foot vertically and berm up extra soil for an additional 6" above the ground. Place 3/4" PVC pipe
at least 9" below the ground surface into the flower pot or bucket emitter (see Flower Pot Emitter profile) with brick
supports. Create an open access for bucket emitters covered with a heavy stone for easier maintenance.
Fill moat with clean gravel, river rock, bark, or wood chips (minimum 2"). Use roadside wood chips, composted
municipal waste and recycled aggregate if possible. Locate each tree watering moat between 2/3 times and 1-1/2 times the
radius of the tree canopy when fully grown. Use 6' for medium-sized trees, 12' for large trees, and 24' for very large trees.
Keep water away from the trunk to avoid root rot.
MAINTENANCE
Flush the tree watering moats periodically to reduce salt build up. Remove decomposed mulch material and replace with
new material as necessary. Check the bucket emitter and remove any clogging material as necessary.
PAGE 17
Item 12.a. - Page 54
SUSTAINABILTY. ~
COMPLEXITY: ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $
I -INFILTRATION GALLEY
access port
I ! brick supports I around edge
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
Best suited for high flow volumes and irrigation of trees and large shrubs
Works best with gravity surge tank, pumped surge tank or branched drain system
Proven technology with septic systems
The infiltration galley uses half-cylinder structures, such as manufactured infiltrators, barrels cut in half, or large
diameter pipes, to create a large void space beneath the soil. The large capacity also allows for more surge volume for
each galley. Manufactured infiltrators can be linked together to reduce piping. Design and install prefab infiltrators
according to the manufacturer instructions.
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow ( 4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 0.40)
Typical infiltrator disposal area
(for example, 75" long x 34" wide x 12" deep)
Minimum number of infiltrators (i.e., 80 + 17)
INSTALLATION
200 gallons per day (gpd)
0.40 gpd per square foot
80 square feet
17 square feet per infiltrator
5 infiltrators (rounded up)
Prefab infiltrator galleys should be installed according to the manufacturer instructions. Modify access ports and
observation ports with stone markers for easier maintenance (optional). Alternative infiltration galleys include plastic 55-
gallon drums cut lengthwise, large diameter plastic pipes cut lengthwise, and constructed box troughs; Construct with
splash blocks, brick or mesh fabric supports (to keep galleys from sinking into the soil), and removable lids, if possible.
Cover the galley with soil at least 9" from the bottom of the galley. Locate similarly to tree watering moat for tree
irrigation (and away from tree trunks to prevent root rot.)
MAINTENANCE
Check access ports (if available) for any clogging material and remove as necessary.
PAGE 18
Item 12.a. - Page 55
SUSTAINABILTY: ~ ~
COMPLEXITY: ~ ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $ $
.J -DRIP SYSTEM
ONE GRAYVIATER DRIP IRRIGATION ZONE
-,---=l=:r
air vacuum laterals ~~~::~~\ ; w11h Y filter
lateral
tubing
relief valve
plumbed at
each high •
point
drainf~rm ~ header~·
! ir=~~===~~==9ar=I=~~!====;;
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
•
Best suited for lawns, clay soils, and sloped sites
Works best with filtered pumped surge tank
Standard (prescribed) technology for graywater
lmc flushing
valve
[ref.1]
A subsurface drip irrigation system is complex and also has the greatest potential for system failure. The drip system
requires a well-maintained filter and a properly sized pumping system to prevent clogging. Further details on required
equipment and materials are given in the plumbing code. Drip irrigation systems require at least 11 psi operating pressure,
and generally include filters, tubing, valves, drip emitters, and controllers. Despite costs and maintenance, drip systems
are highly efficient at irrigation, spreading the graywater over the largest possible area with the greatest control.
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow ( 4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 1.22)
Emitter spacing, using 14" spacing in all directions
Minimum number of emitters (i.e., 244 -:-1.36)
200
1.22
244
1.36
180
gallons per day (gpd)
gpd per square foot
square feet (sf)
square feet per emitter
emitters (spacing at 14" in all directions)
Note: Further drip system design is required to ensure that the pump cycling meets the graywater flow rate.
INSTALLATION
Follow manufacturers instructions for installation of subsurface drip system equipment, including pre-filters, filters,
pumps, drip tubing, and emitters. Pre-filters are an initial filter required to catch most of the lint, hair and particles found
in graywater. This filter should be easily accessible for cleaning and replacement. They are commonly located at the inlet
pipe in the surge tank. The surface area of the filter should be at least 2 square feet. Material can be PVC, polyethylene,
woven mesh bag or paper canister filter.
Pump options available include a sump pump, a centrifugal pump or submersible high head effluent pump. Use pressure
regulators to maintain the pressure below 25 psi, where most fittings must be kept to prevent damage. Multiple drip
system zones are useful to reduce the pump size and provide better operations. Zoned assemblies have a limited number
of running feet to maintain the necessary pressure. Stagger drip lines between 12-14" apart so that emitters alternate from
row to row. Use manual ball valves or actuated diverter valves to help distribute the flow.
MAINTENANCE
Check and clean all filters routinely. Flush system with clean water or slightly acidic solution several times a year at the
beginning of each watering season. Check flushing valve periodically for sediments. Flush the Y-filter monthly. Check
tubing for rodents, digging and other abrasion damage where surfaced tubing is visible.
PAGE 1 9
Item 12.a. - Page 56
..J -DRIP SYSTEM WITH PRESSURIZED SAND FILTER OPTION
SUSTAINABILTY: ~
COMPLEXITY: ~ ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $ $
controller
>===~.p,otable water
-----back flushing system"'-
pumped
surge tank
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
Best suited for lawns, clay soils, and sloped sites
Automated system with minimal maintenance or owner intervention
Developed proprietary system with high rate of operational success
drip irrigation . -
\
J
l
,~.,,!
A subsurface drip irrigation system with pressurized sand filtration and automatic backflushing may be one of the best
approaches for challenging projects. Drip systems with pressurized sand filtration require little maintenance compared to
regular filter cleaning in surge tanks. The high degree of filtration (similar to swimming pool filtration) provides longer
life of pumping equipment, drip lines, and emitters. Although relatively expensive and complex, this system achieves
efficient irrigation with low maintenance.
EXAMPLE OF Ji)ESIGN CALCULATIONS
Total graywater flow ( 4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 200 x 1.22)
Emitter spacing, using 14" spacing in all directions
Minimum number of emitters (i.e., 244 + 1.36)
200 gallons per day (gpd)
1.22 gpd per square foot
244 square feet (sf)
1.36 square feet per emitter
180 emitters (spacing at 14" in all directions)
Note: Further drip system design is required to ensure that the pump cycling meets the graywater flow rate.
INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE
The drip irrigation system with pressurized sand filtration is similar to the basic drip system, using a automatic sand filter
vessel under pressure, automated backflushing with potable water, and special emitter cones (instead of in-line emitters).
Follow the manufacturer instructions (provided by ReWater Systems). Anticipated maintenance includes checking yearly
and, as needed, replacing the sand filter media.
PAGE 20
Item 12.a. - Page 57
SUSTAINABILTY: ~ ~
COMPLEXITY: ~ ~ ~
MATERIALS COST' $ $ $
Note: Water is not allowed to pond
on the surface without authorization
from the local health department of
enforcing agency. [Ref 9]
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
K -REED BEDS
bed #J horizontal
reed bed
increases water
transpiration &
nutrient uptake
through anaerobic
micro-organisms
bed #2_ vertical
reed bed
increases oxygen
level which
supports aerobic
micro-organisms
• Best suited for large areas with slow percolation rates
•
•
Provides graywater treatment mimicking natural ecological systems
Allows for better controlled plant growth and possible cultivation
bed #3 oxidation pond
water is clean enough
at this point to support
aquacultures (fish,
frogs, etc.)
[ref. 8]
Reed Beds, also known as constructed wetlands, are man made, engineered, marsh like area designed and constructed to
treat wastewater. Wetlands are cost-effective, ecological systems, and simple to both install and operate. Reed bed systems
are best when soil percolation is very low, space is limited and there is a need to treat large volumes of water. Reed beds
provide a home for bacteria, fungus and microbes that digest effluent while deterring flow and retaining suspended solids.
Reed beds can be designed as either horizontal or vertical. Horizontal reed beds allow water to enter one side of the bed
and flow slowly across and through bed until reaching outlet on opposite side, which then flows into another bed or
percolates into the soil.
Reed beds do not have much popularity in this country, thus partnerships and communication with the building
department will be helpful. Vertical reed beds allow water to be evenly dispersed along the top of the soil profile. The
water slowly percolates through a sandy, rock soil profile until it exits from ,below or simply percolates into the soil.
Reed beds provide an ecologically based filtration of wastewater while providing higher biodiversity and beauty. Reed
beds when mature host various species of plants, homes to butterflies, dragonflies and other important species. Plants can
be harvested for textile and building purposes. In dry areas reed beds provide a
contrast to otherwise arid lands.
INSTALLATION
Reed bed construction requires further research for proper design. Plant native species, such as members of the
Cyperacae, Junacaece and Typhaceae families. Aquatic plant species should also be selected based on the following
criteria: rapid and relatively constant growth rate, ease of propagation, capacity of absorption of pollutants, ease of
harvesting, potential for usefulness of harvested material, high oxygen transport ability, tolerance to adverse climate
conditions and resistance to pests and disease. Do not plant invasive species.
Reed beds require a combination of vertical and horizontal reed beds. Horizontal beds increase water
transpiration and nutrient, nitrogen and phosphorous, uptake through anaerobic micro organisms. Vertical
reed beds increase the presence of oxygen which host aerobic micro organisms. All reed beds should have
overflow zones for storm water conditions. After passing through the beds, install a pond supporting aqua-cultures for
fish, frogs, and other ecology.
PAGE 21
Item 12.a. - Page 58
K -REED BEDS
cattail bulrush
substrate
~
6 to 12 inches ·:;:; 1~:,U.oj/Jf'j~ ;. ' -. .. -~~~~\-/(~-\'
(15 to 30 cm):::~
·.··· :
I
~·. :} •• -.J' ·.-·.
·.· .......
:. '.:~:;~to 36 Inches
(60to 90cm)
Typical rooting depth -cattail and bulrush [ref. aJ
Note: Water is not allowed to
pond on the surface without
authorization from the local
health department of enforcing
agency. (Ref 9J
, bed depth:
12" for cattails
1 24" for reeds
30" for bulrushes
inlet
HORIZONTAL REED BED
-· ---·-. -----. --. ----------~.----------------
water level in horizontal reed bed is 2 11 below the surface -
gravel discharge
--· ----------------------------------
j aeration __ ]~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
rock
large
rock &
gravel l 1 tube
1
I VERTICAL.REED BED
oulet bottom J
PAGE 22
Item 12.a. - Page 59
L -WASHING MACHINE SUMP
SUSTAINABILTY: ~
COMPLEXITY: ~
MATERIALS COST: $
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
valve to SC!her
or septic
[ref. 7]
--·-~--<--.c--------------------
8'·0"min.
sump 41 wide, G' long & 4' deep
k 96 cubic feet. the mm
required by the county
Note emitters o-n-cards D.G,H,& I can be used mstead of a sump
•
•
Best suited for all projects, especially remodels and existing construction with slab foundations
Minimal material and equipment saves on costs
• Basic system design allows for easy installation for most owners
The washing machine sump, also know as a drumless laundry system, is a simple design suitable for all houses with a
standard washing machine. San Luis Obispo County permits this system as an alternative to a full dual-plumbed system.
Most washing machines are located on exterior walls with access already. Alternative designs may include adaptability to
various distribution and irrigation options, such as the flower pot emitter. Be careful to ensure that the pressurized surge
capacity is included in design.
EXAMPLE OF DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Washing machine flow (4-bedroom house) at
Sandy loam soil (see Percolation Rate Table) at
Required total area (i.e., 75 x 0.40)
75 gallons per day (gpd)
0.40 gpd per square foot
30 square feet
Continue with design calculations for selected irrigation option, such as the mini-leachfield, flower pot emitter, mulched
watering moat, SLO County sump permit, etc.
Note: San Luis Obispo County permits require that the sumps have a minimum volume of96 cubic feet. For more
information, please visit http://www.slocounty.ca.gov/planning/building/Building details info/septic.htm
INSTALLATION
Material List: l" brass three-way, 1" PVC pipe and fittings, check valve or "auto venf' used for air gap, swing check
valve (if yard is higher than washer), 1" HDPE (black polyethylene plastic) tubing and barbed fittings, and l" and 1/2"
ball valves
The washing machine's internal pump pressurizes the graywater, so system can irrigate plants that are slightly uphill or
further away along flat ground. Do not over stress the washing machine pump, which could require costly repairs. The
washer hose is connected to a 3-way valve that can divert graywater either to the sewer or the graywater system. Use 1"
rigid HDPE pipe to connect to the outside pipe. Split the flow using barbed Tee fittings to allow graywater to spread out
to several freefall locations, such as the flower pot emitters, tree moats, or mulch basin. Drip irrigation will overburden
the washing machine and most likely bum out the pump.
MAINTENANCE
Check irrigation emitters for clogging, especially lint material. Lint filters are available specifically for washing machines
if lint becomes a problem. Ensure that the piping fiction and emitter elevations are not adding unnecessary friction
resistance. Every 50 feet of run adds about as much resistance as 1 O" vertically. For example, a system that sends water
through 100 feet of 1" pipe that ends up 12" lower in elevation than the lid is equivalent to pumping 8" above the lid of
the washer (20" -12" = 8").
PAl3E 23
Item 12.a. - Page 60
M -IN HOUSE USE OF GRAYWATER
SUSTAINABILTY: ~ ~ ~
COMPLEXITY: ~ ~ ~
MATERIALS COST: $ $ $
--shower', __ --~----
laundry bathroom
sink
graywater
tank with
pump &
niter.
cleanout valve
bypass valv~
.µ
Q)
·5
.µ
..c
(/)
::J
ti=
0 .µ
>.
a. a.
::J
(/)
gray 1
water
holding
tank
TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT
•
•
•
Paired with irrigation reuse, indoor reuse systems can significantly reduce potable water use
Mainly used for toilet flushing
Proprietary systems are readily available and easy to install
toilet
bath
Indoor reuse of graywater systems are primarily designed to treat and reuse graywater for toilet flushing. Some systems
collect all the graywater (such as in a dual-plumbed house), provide treatment at a central location, and redistribute the
treated stream to all the toilets. Other systems provide a direct connection from the adjacent sink and either treat and
temporarily store the graywater for later flushing or allow the graywater water to be fill up the toilet tank immediately
prior to flushing. Providing finer filtration coupled with chemical, UV or ozone disinfection allows longer storage time
with graywater for toilet reuse. While most indoor reuse have been for commercial projects, residential systems are
becoming more popular. [Ref 91
Most systems for indoor reuse are complex and expensive, compared to the basic systems used for irrigation, but may
have greater environmental impact. Highly treated graywater that meets a certain purification standard in Canada, for
example, is allowed for some non-potable uses, such as showers and swimming pools. Units are available for single
family, shared central system located at co-housing or apartments.
DESIGN, INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE
Design, installation and maintenance of indoor reuse systems vary by manufacturer. Most systems are purchased through
a vendor and installed by a professional licensed plumber. Some systems requires a minimum storage .tank, where similar
installation requirements with a surge tank may apply. Maintenance may require filter cleaning, handling of chemicals,
and checking for clogging. For example, the Brae system consists of a pump, filter, and holding tank. The Pontos
AquaCycle system includes aeration, disinfection, and filtration as well.
PAGE 24
Item 12.a. - Page 61
Planning
l:J Estimate graywater flow (page 7)
l:J Estimate graywater absorption area based on soil type or percolation test results (page 8)
l:J Estimate distribution area for absorption
l:J Plot plan to scale showing
o Lot lines, structures, and slopes of surfaces
o Location of drainage channels, supply lines, wells
o Location of sewage disposal system if applicable, plus 100% expansion area
o Location of graywater system consistent with standards on page 8
Surge tank (unless using a branched system)
l:J Anchored on dry level compacted soil or on a 3" concrete slab
l:J Capacity permanently marked on the tank
l:J ''Graywater system -irrigation -danger unsafe water" permanently marked on tank
l:J Drain & overflow permanently connected to sewer or tank system
l:J Test surge tank to ensure it is water tight when filled
Utilization system of your choice
l:J Insure that installation conforms to the plot plan
l:J Develop a maintenance manual and operating log,
PAl3E 25
Item 12.a. - Page 62
SUMMARY
The demand for potable water is increasing and at the same time, climate change is making the consistency of water
supplies less predictable. The effect is an increase in demand for imported water from distant sources which is associated
with energy intensive and ecologically disruptive processes. The alternative to importing water usually means increased
pressure on the local aquifer resulting in aquifer depletion.
This challenging situation forces us to produce and use water carefully. Reduce, reuse and recycle are concepts applied to
consumer products; water should be thought of as one of these products, most importantly, it is the one product we must
consume to survive. Graywater utilization is an important part of this effort to reduce, reuse and recycle water. Healthy
and sustainable communities of the future will use graywater for all non-potable water uses such as irrigation and toilet
flushing. Innovators today include REEF, well known for their contribution to the surfing industry, REEF's global
headquarters in Carlsbad, CA, uses reclaimed water for irrigation and graywater for toilet flushing. Despite the fact that
REEF doesn't own their building, they were able to integrate appropriate technologies yielding cost savings of $200 per
month on utility bills and lots of water saved for the future! [SJ
In 2008, 20% of the electricity consumed in California was used to move and pump water. On-site harvesting and
treatment of water can greatly red1,1ce the amount of electricity used for this purpose. Graywater is but one appropriate
technology that will enable us to meet the resource demands of today.
REFERENCES
1. City of Malibu, Ca -Graywater Handbooks
htni://www.ci.malibu.ca.us/index.c:fm?fuseaction=detailgroup&navid=274&cid=2949
2. Creating an Oasis with Graywater. Art Ludwig, Oasis Design, 2007.
3. Rainwater Harvesting for Dr_ylands and Beyond. Brad Lancaster, Rainsource Press, 2008.
www.harvesting rainwater.com
4. 2009 California Plumbing Code-Appendix G
5. Carlsbad Magazine March/ April 2009
6. Carmichael Environmental Design/ Build
7. San Luis Obispo County Public Works Department
8. Constructed Wetlands in the Sustainable Landscape. Craig Campbell & Michael Ogden, Wiley & Sons, 1999.
9. Proposed Express Terms -Emergency CPC (Title 24, Chapter I 6A, Part!)-Graywater Standards. Housing and
Housing and Community Development (HCD). July 1, 2009.
PAGE 26
Item 12.a. - Page 63
1-···DETERGENTS FG'R. GRAYVlfATER SYl3TEMS
When looking for appropriate detergents, read the following information regarding the contents.
Is Biodegradable Better?
The word biodegradable means that a complex chemical is broken down into simpler components through biological
action. Do not be confused by the word biodegradable, which is often used to imply environmentally safe. Harmful
chemicals as well as beneficial ones may be biodegradable.
A Note About Chlorides
Although chlorine in bleach and detergents is generally expended in the washing process, some may be left in the
graywater that reaches plants. Chlorine should not be used in the garden because it may substitute for similar nutrients,
blocking normal metabolic processes. The addition of chlorine to water used for irrigation should be kept to a minimum.
Choose your detergents and clothes-washing products keeping in mind that it is better for your plants and soils to have a
low alkalinity, boron, conductivity, and sodium content in the water. Personal preference may affect your choice of
products since higher levels of these constituents may add to their cleansing ability.
Alkalinity
Alkalinity refers to the relative amounts of alkaline chemicals in a solution. Sodium, potassium, and calcium are alkaline
chemicals; they often are combined with carbonates, sulfates, or chlorides. Plants do not tolerate high concentrations of
alkali salts.
Boron
Boron is considered a plant micro-nutrient required in only very, very small amounts. Most soils provide adequate
amounts of this chemical. Concentrations only slightly higher than those considered beneficial can cause severe injury or
death to plants!
Conductiyity
Conductivity is a simple measure of the amount of dissolved chemicals in a solution. These chemicals can be beneficial or
harmful. The higher the conductivity, the more dissolved salts and minerals are present. In general, the higher the
concentration of dissolved salts and minerals in the water, the greater the potential for adverse affects on the environment
and plant health.
Sodium
Sodium can act as a plant poison by reducing the plants ability to take up water from the soil. Too much sodium can
destroy the structure of clay soils, making them slick and greasy by removing air spaces and thus preventing good
drainage. Once a clay soil is damaged by sodium, it can be very difficult to restore it to a viable condition.
Phosphate
Phosphate is a plant food and is added to soil as a fertilizer. Soils in the San Luis Obispo area are typically low in
phosphates; thus, there may be some benefit to plants if phosphate is present in graywater. However, this may be
inaccurate since many forms of phosphate are not readily usable by plants and soils.
Some recommended products are:
Alfa Kleen
Bold
Oasis
Bio Pac
Cheer Free
Ecocover
Shaklee Basic L
Sun Ultra
White King
Yes
"-
PA13E 27
Item 12.a. - Page 64
Plant List -some recommended species by hydrozone:
Wetland Type--reeds. rushes. & sedges
Carex sp.-Sedge species--C. tumilicola, C. spissa, C. Praegracilis, etc.
Juncus sp.-Rush species-J. patens, J. effusus
Equisetum sp.-Horsetail species-E. hyemale (plant in container to keep from spreading)
Canna sp.--Canna species-Hybrid colors (plant in container to keep from spreading)
*Chondropetalum elephantium--Cape Rush
, Upland Type--herbs. shrubs. & trees
Arbutus 'Marina'-Strawberry Madrone Tree
Cercis occidentalis-Westem Redbud
Myrica califomica--Califomia Wax Myrtle
Rhamnus californica-Coffeeberry
Heteromeles arbutifolia-Toyon
*Rosmarianus officinalis-Rosemary
Artiplex sp.-Salt Bush species
Arctostaphylos sp.-Manzanita species
Ceanothus sp.--California Lilac species
Salvia sp.-Sage species-S. spathacea, S. 'Pt. Sal', S. elegans
Penstemon sp.-Penstemon species-P. heterophyllus, P. digitalis
Achillea sp.-Yarrow species
*Lavandula sp.-Lavender species
*Fragaria chiloensis-Beach Strawberry
Grasses-used in both planting groups
Mulhenbergia rigens-Deergrass
1 Festuca sp.-Fescue species-Blue Fescue, California Fescue
Calamagrostis sp.-Reed Grass species--C. 'Karl Foerster', C. 'Overdam'
Seslaria sp.-Moor Grass species-S. caerulea, S. autumnalis
Note: more common edible plants can be used as long as no edible parts touch the actual graywater flow. The foods
produced above ground from plants rooted in graywater are just as fit to eat as plants grown in drinking quality water. Do
, not drink graywater!
* Plants with an asterisk beside them are not native plants to California, but are climate appropriate species for San Luis
Obispo County.
PAGE 28
Item 12.a. - Page 65
ADAPTER: Any plumbing or drip irrigation part which
connects one size pipe or part to another. Often used to refer to
. the female fitting, whether glued or threaded, which joins
i different parts together.
ACTUATOR: A 24V DC motorized value, used to
automatically control valves. Unlike a solenoid, this valve's
opening and closing is powered by the motor, not the pressure
in the pipe. Because it works without any water pressure in the
pipes, it is the most practical valve for many graywater
systems.
AEROBIC SOIL: A well drained soil with sufficient pore space
to allow plenty of air circulation. The pore space is usually
dependent upon the texture (sand is most open) and a
reasonable amount of organic matter and humus.
ANIONIC SURFACTANTS: A cleaning agent, most commonly
some form of sodium salt. Usually found in high sudsing
detergents (see sodium chlonde).
BALL VALVE: A valve which has a globe shaped rotating
interior. The solid globe has a circular tunnel through it. When
the handle of the valve is rotated, the solid portion of the ball
cuts off the flow of water. Another rotation lines up the tunnel
and water flows through the valve. Ball valves are often found
at the discharge port of quality y-filters. Because ball-valves
shear off any contaminants and because they don't easily wear
out like gate valves, they are the preferred valve for graywater
systems.
, BEACHFRONT AREAS: Areas with a sand profile verses a
soil profile.
CENTRIFUGAL PUMP: A pump installed outside the surge
tank, not submersed in the graywater. The centrifugal pump
along with a diaphragm pressure tank should be housed in or
under a weatherproof structure.
CHECK-VALVE: A backflow preventer which stops any water
siphoning back toward the house. Often not legal as the only
backflow preventer in potable-water drip system. Must be
coupled with some form of atmospheric vacuum breaker.
DRIP: A style or technology of irrigation where a tiny trickle of
water is slowly applied to the soil.
DRIP HOSE ADAPTER: The first fitting after the main
assembly of a drip irrigation system. Almost always an FHT
(female hose thread) swivel X drip hose adapter. The female
hose threads of the swivel go on to the male hose threads of a
hose-bib or a transition mpple. The swivel action makes it easy
to quickly add or remove this fitting. The other side of the
adapter is either a slip (glue), or compression, depending on the
system.
DRIP LINE: A length of solid drip irrigation hose or in-line
emitter tubing.
DRIPLINE: The width ofa tree's or shrub's foliage, where
water would drip off the edge of the canopy. Not an indicator
of the width of the root system as roots grow from one half to
three times wider than the dripline.
DUAL PLUMBING: A permanent separate set of pipes for all
the graywater sources in the home.
ELBOW: A fitting which allows drip hose or pipe to make 90
degree turn.
EMITTER: The little gizmos attached to or built in to solid
drip irrigation hose which control the flow of water to the soil.
There are many name brands that basically fall into four
generic styles or technologies: single diaphragm, double
diaphragm, tortuous (or complex) path, or simple orifice.
END CAP: The fitting added at the end ofa lateral to make it
easy to open the tubing for draining or flushing. Has a female
hose thread cap with a washer which threads on to the male
hose thread fitting. The other end will be either a compression,
insert or other opening, depending on the system you use.
EVAPOTRANSPIRATION (ET): The loss of water from a
plant or crop via transpiration (exhaling) by foliage and
evaporation from the plant's and soil's surface. The ET rate is
influenced by humidity, rainfall, slope aspect, wind speed,
temperature, plant care and soil.
FIGURE EIGHT END CLOSURE: A simple end closure
which involves threading the end of the drip hose through one
side of the figure eight, bending over the end of the end of the
drip hose and securing the bent end inside the other half of the
figure eight.
FILTER: A device with a screen (cheap, poor quality models
have plastic screens) which is used to trap any particulates, dirt,
or scum before it can enter the drainfield or clog the drip
emitters. An essential component of all graywater drip systems.
FHT: Plumbing shorthand for a female iron pipe thread.
FLAPPER CHECK VALVE: A valve that prevents any water
from siphoning back into the surge tank. '
GFI: A ground fault interrupt outlet. All sump pumps must be
plugged into a GFI outlet.
HEAD: A pump's head is the gross difference in elevation
which it pumps. As a safety factor, the head for a graywater
system is determined by adding the total changes, both up and
down, in the elevation from the surge tank to the point of
disposal. To this figure add at least 15% more feet of the total
head.
HOSE-BIB: Another name for a garden faucet. The standard
gizmo on the pipe sticking out of the house's exterior wall or
on top of a metal water pipe in the yard and onto which the
garden hose is attached.
Item 12.a. - Page 66
HOSE SHUT OFF VALVE: A small ball-valve which can be
added at the end of a hose to control water without having to run
back to the hose bib. With a few extra parts, this valve can be
spliced into any drip hose and allow the gardener to exclude
water from portions of a system. Often used to rotate graywater
to different zones as needed.
IN-LINE EMITTER HOSE: A more recent and effective type of
drip irrigation hose where the emitters are manufactured inside
the hose at regular intervals. The pre-spaced emitters use a
tortuous path technology for water regulation without clogging.
Water can be distributed at 1/2, I, and 2 gal/hr. rates at many
separate intervals ranging from 12-72 inches.
INSERT FITTING: These fittings have male-shaped parts with
barbed exteriors which msert inside the drip irrigation hose. As
the water pressure increases, the fitting is more likely to fail
because the swelling drip hose can bloat away from the barbed
posts. Must use a ring clamp to secure the hose against too
much pressure.
J-STAKE: A landscape pin used to secure drip irrigation hose,
landscape nettmg and l 2v DC wiring. Made like the upside
version of the letter 'J', not as sturdy as the best U-stakes.
LABRYINTH: A complex, tortuous path inside certain emitters.
The labyrmth of passages keeps any sediment in the water in
suspension to pass out the emitter's orifice. All in-line emitter
tubing uses some form of labyrinth to allow for a relatively large
emitter orifice and to keep the emitter from clogging.
LATERAL: A lateral is a water-bearing pipe or drip hose which
originates as an offshoot of a main supply pipe. Laterals are
usually attached to the supply header via a tee.
MAIN ASSEMBLY: The collection of parts at the beginnmg of
a graywater system which filters the graywater system to the
, drip emitters and regulates the water pressure to keep the drip
system intact. Composed of a filter and pressure regulator plus
the miscellaneous parts needed to connect everythmg together.
MAIN SWITCHING VAVLE: Amain valve 1s required to allow
the homeowner to alternate between the graywater system and
the septic tank or sewer. Use the main valve when the ground is
1 saturated with rainwater, when someone is ill with an infectious
disease or the occupants don't want to use the graywater
irrigation system. The main valve, whether manual or electro-
mechanical, is best plumbed near the surge tank.
MESH: Most drip irrigation filters are rated by mesh size. The
larger the mesh number, the better the filtration because smaller
particles can be trapped. Many metal screen filters are either: 60
mesh (254 microns or .01 inches), 100 mesh (152 microns or.
006 inches), 140 mesh (104 microns or .004 inches) or 250
mesh (61 microns or .0024 inches). Graywater systems should
use a 200 mesh or better filter.
MICRON: A common measurement for irrigation parts. The
bigger the micron number, the bigger the opening. A single
micron equals one-millionth of a meter. It takes 254 microns to
equal .01 inches, which is a 60 mesh screen. Most graywater
systems should have a 75 micron or better filter.
MIPT: Plumbing shorthand for a male iron pipe thread.
NIPPLE: Comes in plastic and iron versions with male iron pipe
threads on each end. Plumbing nipples range in size from 3/4
inches to 48 inches. Used to join twQ female iron pipe threads
together.
OVERFLOW PORT (AUTOMATIC): An overflow pipe near the
top of the tank dumps graywater to the sewer or septic tank in
case something clogs the surge tank or the sump pump fails.
PATHOGENS: Disease causing organisms. To become infected,
an individual must be exposed to a large enough dosage and be
vulnerable to the pathogen. Most pathogens can reside out of the
body of a host, in the soil, but each disease has a different life
span in the soil.
PERCOLATION TEST: A test to determine the abiiity of the soil
to accept graywater. The test is only required at the request of the
City Health Officer. Percolation tests can be useful but they may
not reflect long term acceptance rates.
PHYTOPHTHORA: Genus of various species of fungal diseases
which attack the upper portion of the roots to destroy the bark's
active layers of transport. Often called crown rot.
POROUS HOSE: Unlike an emitter, where the water dribbles out
at select points; the water in porous drip hose oozes out through
the entire surface area of the hose's walls. The genre of drip hose
only works well with chlorinated city water because it's so prone
to getting clogged by sediment and becoming sealed off
internally due to the build-up of various types of algae slimes.
Not recommended at all with graywater, no matter how well
filtered.
POTABLE WATER: Fresh drinking water, city or pure well
water.
PRESSURE COMPENSATING EMITTER: A special type of
emitter engineered so that the flow rate stays the same regardless
of the length of the line (up to a point) and any change in
elevation. Required when irrigating landscapes with a total
elevation change of 20 feet or more.
PRE-FILTER: Usually a basket with a mesh bag which catches
most of the offending lmt, hair and particulates before entering
the surge tank. Its filtering surface area should be at least 2
square feet so that it does not clog quickly. The bigger the pre-
filter, the better. Must be used with a graywater drip irrigation
system.
PRESSURE REGULATOR: A gizrno which reduces the water
pressure in a graywater drip irrigation to 25 psi or lower to
protect the subsequent drip irrigation fittings. Must be installed i
every main assembly.
D
Item 12.a. - Page 67
PSI: Pounds per square inch, the unit of measure for water
pressure. Typical home water pressure is 40-80 psi. Drip
irrigation systems generally operate at 11-25 psi.
PVC: A type of semi-rigid plastic that is made from polyvinyl
chloride which is often used for garden plumbing. Some of the
more common grades of this pipe (from the sturdiest to the
weakest walls) are Schedule 80, Schedule 40, Class 200 and
Class 120, which resist bursting up to, respectively, 800, 400,
200 and 120 psi.
SALINE WATER: Irrigation or ground water which is high in
salt (sodium chloride). While saline water is useful in many
medical applications, it is not healthy for many plants.
Graywater can be particularly saline due to the salts in many
detergents, especially powdered detergents.
SCH: Shorthand for 'schedule'. Used to denote the type or
grade of PVC pipe and fittings.
SLIP: A PVC fitting with an opening which requires glue, as
opposed to threads with pipe dope, to 'weld' the two parts
together. Usually the end of the rigid PVC irrigation pipe and
the fitting are moistened with PVC glue and the pipe is slipped
into the wet round opening of the waiting fitting.
SOLENOID: An electric valve used to control drip irrigation
systems. The wires to the solenoid usually carry 24 volts of
AC power. The irrigation controller has a transformer to step
down the house current. It is dependent on the static line
pressure of the water supply to assist in the opening and
closing of the valve, therefore they often can't be used with a
graywater system unless the system is fully pressurized at all
times.
SPAGHETTI TUBING: A tiny or slender type of polyethylene
tubing which can be used to distribute water to emitters or
plants. Comes in 1/4 and 1/8 inch diameters. Because of this
tubing's propensity to twist around itself, it will make a
tangled mess in the landscape. Can be controlled when used in
container plantings.
SUB-SYSTEM: A branched system of drip irrigation laterals
originating from a main supply line or header. Unlike a single
lateral, a sub-system, also called a sub-main, has several
subordinate lines all connected by tees in a pattern similar to
the lines on a sheet of music.
SUBMERSIBLE HIGH-HEAD EFFLUENT PUMP: A 4 inch
diameter submersible turbine pump made of stainless steel and
high quality thermoplastics specifically for pumping
wastewater effluent. Develops higher pressures than sump
pumps.
SUMP PUMP: A pump designed to be submerged in water, to
automatically tum on when the water reaches a predetermined
level and to pump the water a certain maximum height and
distance at a specific rate in gpm of gph. Installed in the surge
tank.
SUPPLY HEADER: The solid plastic pipe, solid drip hose or
\..in-line drip irrigation hose which supplies one or more laterals.
PAGE 3 1
SURFACE: Refers to the top of a thick permanent mulch
covering the soil or the top of an un-mulched soil. Graywater
must not daylight on the surface.
SWIVEL: The rotating fitting that can be screwed onto another
fitting. Usually refers to female hose threads which are
threaded onto the end of a hose, hose-bibs or drip irrigation
parts. Usually requires a rubber gasket in the swivel to prevent
leaks.
TEE: A fitting which joins a lateral line (solid PVC pipe, in-line
emitter tubing or solid drip hose) to another water supply line.
THREE WAY SWING DIVERTER VALVE: A spa type swing
gate valve which comes in manual form or with a 24V DC
actuator for automatic control. Used to divert graywater flow
from one zone to another zone.
TIMER: A battery powered controller which controls one
irrigation line. Attaches to the hose-bib and controls the flow of
water to a hose or drip irrigation system.
TORTUOUS PATH EMITTERS: Drip irrigation emitters with a
complex, tortuous or labyrinth path within the emitter which
allows larger particles to flow through the emitter without
clogging. Best emitter for use with graywater and one of the
more recent developments in drip technology.
TRANSITION NIPPLE: A plastic or metal fitting with a male
hose thread and a male iron pipe thread used to connect
conventional garden plumbing to drip irrigation fittings.
TWO-WAY SWING DIVERTER VALVE: A spa type swing
gate valve which comes in manual form or with a 24V DC
actuator for automatic control. Tums graywater flow on and
off.
U-STAKE: A landscape pin used to secure drip irrigation hoses,
landscape netting and 12V DC wiring. Shaped like an inverted
'U', sturdier than the J-stakes.
UNION: Related to a coupling, a union is a plumbing part
which, after unthreading the locking ring, separates into two
pieces and allows you to take a portion of any irrigation system
(providing there is a union on each end of the section) out for
repairs without having to cut the pipe. The use of unions allows
for the quick reinstallation of the repaired section without
having to re-glue with extra fittings.
WET SPOT: The wet spot in drip irrigation has both depth and
breadth, the extent of which is dependent upon the rate of the
dribble (m gph), the duration of the trickle (in hours), the soil
type, the slope of the land and the climate.
Y-FILTER: The best type of filter for a graywater drip
irrigation system Easily identified by the filter chamber which
is integrated into the filter at an obtuse angle. The best y-filters
have a metal-screen filter within the filter chamber to make 1t
easy to flush out the screen.
Item 12.a. - Page 68
ATTACHMENT 3
D
Item 12.a. - Page 69
'OTYOF GR~Y ~rucsoN
RESIDENTIAL
SmartScape
4210N CampbellAvenue
Tucsan,AZB57191109
Phona (5201626 5161
Fu 1520)626 5849
INFORMATION GUIDE
Tucson Water
310WAlameda
Tucson,AZ85701
Phone (52017914331
tucsonazgov/water/conservat1on
City of Tucson
Pl•nnin9 and Development Servm1a
201 N Siona Avenue
Tucson,AZ85701
Phone 152017915550
tucsonaLgov/dsd
CA CityofTucsonotficeor
Q'W'• CONSERVATION AllD 'fil SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
City of Tucson Office of Conservation and
Sustainable Development
255 W Alameda {4th Flaor) -Tucson, AZ 85701
Phone 1520) 7914675
tucsonazgov/ocsd
If you require material man accessible format er m another language other that Enghsh, tall Tucson Water at (520) 791 4331 or City of Tucson TOD 1520) 791 2639
Item 12.a. - Page 70
What is Gray Water? .......................................................... 6
Gray Water Ordinance ......................................................... 7
City of Tucson Ordinance 10579 State ............................... 8
Attachment A ..................................................................... 9
Tucson Residential Use of Water ....................................... 10
Implementation Details ..................................................... 11
Gray Water & Black Water Chart... ................................... 12
City of Tucson/State of Arizona Regulations ..•.................. 13
ADEQ Requirements/Best Management Practices ............• 14
Deciding to Use Gray Water .............................................. 15
Designing the System ...................................................... 16
Determining the Type of System Needed .......................... 17
Gray Water System Components ....................................•. 18
Culvert System ................................................................. 19
Irrigation Methods ............................................................ 20
What Can I Irrigate? ......................................................... 21
Detergent Choices ............................................................ 21
Maintenance ..................................................................... 22
FAQ .................................................................................. 23
Landscape Design ..........................................................•.. 24
Resources ........................................................................ 26
Item 12.a. - Page 71
WHAT IS GRAY WATER?
tl Gray water is the water that flows from the drains
of hand-washing lavatories, showers, bathtubs and
clothes washing machines.
iJ Gray water is NOT the water that comes
from toilets, dishwashers, laundry sinks* or
the kitchen sink.
Gray~mli®u
G ·ay~01@U
Grey ~@li®rr·
Greywmli®u
• Laundry sinks tend to be used for chlorine bleach and other chemicals not suitable for gray water use.
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Residential Plan Review
GRAY WATER ORDINANCE
On October 14, 2008, Mayor and Council unanimously voted to require all new
residences to be built with gray water capabilities. Starting June 1, 2010, all new
single family homes and duplexes must include, on the plans, plumbing for future
gray water distribution.
These new rules are part of Tucson's effort to promote water conservation and
efficient use of water resources by the City and its residents. Gray water 1s water
previously used by the interior of the house, from clothes washers, bathtubs,
showers, or bathroom sinks and reused for outdoor irrigation. Using this recycled
water can save a typical household 13,000 gallons of potable water a year.
The code changes for Residential Gray Water are now in place.
Here's what the rules require:
1. On all new residential plans for single family and duplex dwellings, show
either a separate multiple pipe outlet or a diverter valve and an outside
"stub-out" installation on clothes washing machine hook-ups.
2. For all new single family dwellings, show a building drain(s) for
lavatories, showers, and bathtubs, separate from all other plumbing
fixtures, with a connection a minimum of three (3) feet from the edge of
the foundation.
3. All gray water systems need to be designed and operated according
to the provisions of permits authorized by ADEQ under the Arizona
Administrative Code, Title 18, Chapter 9.
http://www.azdeq.gov/environ/water/permits/download/graybro.pdf
Item 12.a. - Page 72
CITY OF TUCSON ORDINANCE 10579 STATES
ADOPTED BY THE
MAYOR AND COUNCIL
September 23, 2008
ORDINANCE NO. 10579
RELATING TO BUILDINGS, ELECTRICITY,
PLUMBING AND MECHANICAL CODE; CREATING
THE •RESIDENTIAL GRAY WATER ORDINANCE"
REQUIRING INSTALLATION OF GRAY WATER
·sruB-OUTS" IN RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION;
REQUIRING THAT GRAY WATER SYSTEMS
COMPLY WITH APPLICABLE REGULATIONS;
AMENDING TUCSON CODE CHAPTER 6, ARTICLE
111 DIVISION I BY AMENDING SECTION 6-38
AND ADDING SECTION 2602.1.2, "GRAY WATER
STUB-OUTS", AS A LOCAL AMENDMENT TO
THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE; AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the State of Arizona's Department of
Environmental Quality instituted a general permit for
homeowners whose gray water systems meet the
Best Management Practices; and
WHEREAS, gray water systems constructed and
operated according ta these Best Management
Practices provide a safe method of reducing water
demand; and
WHEREAS, gray water is a valuable resource as it
makes "double use" of water that otherwise goes dawn
the drain. Gray water systems divert same mteriar water
from clothes washers, bathtubs, showers or bathroom
sinks (but not from a kitchen sink, dishwasher or toilet)
for use in outdoor irrigation, and
WHEREAS, gray water systems -which recycle
household water ta a spat where it can be used
outdoors-can save a typical household 13,000
gallons of potable water per year; and
WHEREAS, installation of stub-outs at the time of
constructions greatly facilitates the use of gray water
in residences; and
WHEREAS, a desert community should do everything
possible ta conserve water and promote efficient use
of water resources.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF TUCSON, ARIZONA, AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. This ordinance shall be known and
referred to as the "Residential Gray Water Ordmance.''
SECTION 2. The Tucson Code Chapter 6, Buildings,
Electricity, Plumbing and Mechanical Code, Article
Ill, Buildings, Division 1. Bmlding Code, Section 6-38,
Residential code adopted, International Residential
Code 2006 as adopted by Ordinance 10417 with
amendments, is herby amended by adopting a new
section 2602.1.2 as set forth in Attachment A to this
ordinance incorporated here as if fully set forth herein.
SECTION 3. The Director of Development Services is
authorized to adopt appropriate rules, regulations and
Development Standards necessary to implement the
provision of this ordinance.
SECTION 4. The provision of this ordinance may
be modified or waived when it can be satisfactorily
demonstrated ta the Building Official that compliance
with these regulations is impractical due ta
construction or other physical constraints and an
acceptable alternative method of compliance that
allows gray water usage 1s proposed.
SECTION 5. The provisions of Sections 1 through 4 of
this ordinance apply ta construction bmlt pursuance ta
permits issued after June 1, 2010.
SECTION 6. The various City officers and employees
are authorized and directed ta perform all acts
necessary or desirable to give effect ta this ordinance,
including, but not limited to, providing an instructional
pamphlet setting forth in plain language the
requirements of this ardmance.
SECTION 7. If any of the provisions of this
ordinance of the application thereof ta any person or
circumstance is invalid, the invalidity shall not affect
other provisions or applications of this ordinance
which may give effect without the invalid provision
or circumstance, and ta the end the provision of this
ardmance are severable.
SECTION 8. WHEREAS, it 1s necessary far the
preservation of the peace, health and safety of
the City of Tucson that this ordinance becomes
immediately effective, an emergency is hereby
declared ta exist and this ordinance shall be effective
immediately upon its passage and adaption.
PASSED, ADOPTED AND APPROVED BY the Mayor
and City Council of T ucsan, Arizona, September 23, 2008.
MAYOR: Robert Walkup
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK: Chief Deputy City Clerk Deborah Rainone
APPROVED TO FORM:
CITY ATTORNEY: Mike Rankin
REVIEWED BY:
CITY MANAGER: Mike Letcher
LK/kr
9/17/2008 10:16 AM
2602.1.2 "Gray Water Applications"
1. All new single family and duplex residential
dwelling units shall include either a separate
multiple pipe outlet or a diverter valve,
and outside •stub-out" installation an
clothes washing machine hook-ups, ta allow
separate discharge of gray water for direct
irrigation.
2. All new single family residential dwelling
units shall include a building drain or
drains for lavatories, showers, and
bathtubs, segregated from drams for all
other plumbing fixtures, and connected a
minimum of three (3) feet from the limits
of the foundation, to allow for future
installation of a distributed gray
water system.
3. All gray water systems shall be designed
and operated according ta the provisions of
the applicable permit authorized by ADEO
under the Arizona Administrative Code, Title
18, Chapter 9.
SUMMARY
ORDINANCE
GOALS:
../Conserve the desert's most precious resource .
../Reduce using potable water for outdoor watering.
Item 12.a. - Page 73
TUCSON RESIDENTIAL USE OF WATER
Using Gray Water can have an impact on the City of
Tucson's overall water usage. Of the total amount of
waste water produced in a typical home, 13 percent
is from the washers, 10 percent is from faucets and 9
percent is from showers totalling 32 percent that can
be re-used as gray water for landscape plants.
When all gray water sources are being used , that
water can replace the 45 percent of the landscape
irrigation needs of an average single family home .
This number varies widely based on irrigation
efficiency, local climate, household occupancy,
occupants habits, lot size and extent of landscaping .
AVERAGE TOTAL WASTE WATER
PRODUCED IN A RESIDENTIAL HOME
10
Outdoor
45%
,---------Others 2%
--...,.. ____ Leaks 7%
Washers 13%
Faucets 10%
Shower 9%
KEY DETAILS OF THE GRAY WATER
All new single family dwellings will be plumbed to
collect gray water with a separate outflow pipe for
you to attach your gray water irrigation system.
Although the home will be preplumbed for gray
water use, it is up to the homeowner to install an
irrigation system to use the gray water. A permit
is required from the City of Tucson Planning and
Development Services Department in order to tap
the building drain or gray water line and divert the
gray water to an irrigation system .
The washing machine stub-out should be above
grade to allow for gravity flow.
All new single family and duplex dwellings shall
include either a separate multiple pipe outlet or a
diverter valve, and an outside "stub-out" installation
on clothes washing machine hook-ups, to allow
separate discharge of gray water for
direct irrigation .
The gray water outflow pipe should be connected
to the black water pipe a minimum of 3 feet
from the limits of the foundations to allow future
installation of the gray water irrigation system.
TION
Gr1y Water Tank
Connected to
Gray Water Pipes
Pufup
To Landscape
Contact the City of Tucson Planning & Development Services Department at (520) 791 -5550 to find out
if a permit is needed .
· A permit is not required to tap into a pre-existing gravity stub -out from the washing machine.
· A permit is required to modify drainage plumbing/piping from any fixture.
· Homeowners may perform plumbing work on their own residence . Otherwise, licensed contractors
must be used .
11
Item 12.a. - Page 74
12
GRAY WATER & BLACK WATER
ASTER
BEDROO
DfN
• = Black W1ter Piping
= Gray Wate r Piping
PATIO
ITCHE
LIVING ROOM
PORCH
-_______________ (91
Gray Water
Connect ed
To Black
Water Pipe
To Sewer
REGULATIONS FOR GRAY WATER USE
The Ar izona Department of Environmental Quality
governs gray water use OUTSIDE the home .
The City of Tucs on Regulat ion s cover gray water
plumbing INSIDE the home .
PUBLIC
(Builder, Contractor or
Homeowner)
II
ADEO CITY OF TUCSON
REGULATIONS ALLOWING GR AY WA TER ORDINANCE GR AY WATER USE
(H OMEOWNER/RESIDENT) (BUI LDER/CONTRAC T OR I
v v
v v
v v
v v
DISTRIBUTION PLUMBING
OUTSIDE IN SIDE
v v
v v
v v
v v
PERMITTING PERMITTING
TYPE 1 GENERAL COMPLIAN CE WITH
ORDINANCE & PLUMBIN G (PAPERLE SS) COD ES
OUTSIDE THE HOME INSIDE THE HOME
13
Item 12.a. - Page 75
GRAV WATER USE MUST ABIDE BY
UIRE
TYPE 1 GENERAL PERMIT BMPS
Follow these best management practices to comply with Arizona's rules for gray water use .
14
first and foremost , avoid human contact with gray
water, or soil irrigated with gray water.
You may use gray water for household gardening,
composting, and lawn and landscape irrigat ion ,
but use it in a way that does not run off your
own property.
Do not surface irrigat e any plants that produce
food, except for citrus and nut trees .
Use only flood or drip irrigation to water lawns and
landscaping . Spraying gray water is prohibited.
When determining the location for your gray water
irrigatio n, remember that it cannot be in a wash or
drainage way .
Gray water may only be used in locations where
groundwater is at least five feet below the surface .
Label pipes carrying gray water under pressure
to eliminate confusion between gray water and
drinking water pipes .
Cover, seal, and secure surge tanks to restrict
access by small rodents and to control disease
car rying insects, such as mosquitoes.
Gray water cannot contain hazardous chemicals
such as antifreeze, mothballs or solvents. Do not
include wash water from greasy or oily rags in your
gray water.
Surface accumulation of gray water must be kept
to a minimum .
Gray water from washing diapers or other
infectious garments must be discharged to a
residential sewer or other wastewater facility ,
unless it can be disinfected prior to its use .
Should a backup occur, gray water must be
disposed into your normal wastewater drain
system . To avoid such a backup, consider using a
filtration system to reduce plugging and extend the
system 's lifetime .
If you have a septic or other on -site wastewater
disposal system, your gray water use does not
change that system's design requirement s for
capacity and reserve areas .
USE YOUR
GRAV WATER IF
You want to conserve water.
You want to lower your water bill.
Your landscape design can accomodate the
amoun t of gray water your home produces .
See Page 16 to determine the quantity of gray
water you will be producing.
You have enough pla nts to use it all!
DON'T USE YOUR
GRAV WATER IF
X You have a water softening system that uses
sodium. Sodium , as part of so dium chloride
used in softening systems, is harmful to
plants . Potassium chloride can also be used in
water softeners and has found to be easier on
the plants . However, it may inc rea se the total
dissolved solids (TOS) of the water that could
accumulate in the soils causing plant health
problems in the future.
X There is a resident who has an infectious
disease. Since the gray water from many
systems is not treated, bacteria and
viruses from infected people may get into
the gray water system and cause further
con ta minat ion . If there is someone in the
household who is sick, the gray water system
should be bypassed .
X You are washing diaper s that are not
disinfected. Diapers contain fecal matter
that would not get treated in the gray water
system. Water from the washing machine
used to clean diapers should be bypassed to
the sewer system to prevent contaminating
the gray water system.
15
Item 12.a. - Page 76
DESIGNING THE GRAY WATER SYSTEM
HOW TO DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF GRAY WATER THAT MAY BE PRODUCED.
There are a number of methods to determine the
amount of flow generated from gray water. This is
important to know so that the irrigation system is
designed properly along with the landscaping . The
estimate may be calculated using the bedroom count to
estimate the number of possible occupants.
The bedroom count formula may be used to determine
the amount of gray water that may be produced in a
household . The estimations are in gallons per person , per
day, also known as gallons per capita per day (gpcd).
1.
2.
The first thing you need to determine is the
number of occupants there are in the dwelling .
One common method utilized is by bedroom
count. For example , the first bedroom has 2
occupan ts, and each additional bedroom has 1.
Next calculate the estimated gray water flow
for each occupant. It can be assumed that
showers , bathtubs and wash basins use 25 gpcd
and 15 gpcd is used from laundry.
3. Then multiply by the total number of occupants .
Example A:
A single family dwelling that has 3 bedrooms
with the showers, bathtubs, wash basins and a
washing machine all connected to the gray
water system :
Total number of occupants -2 + 1 + 1 -4
Estimated gray water flow -4 x (25 + 15) -
160 gallons per day (gpd).
Example B:
A single family dwelling that has 4 bedrooms
with only the washing mach ine connected to the
gray water system :
Total number of occupants -2 + 1 + 1 + 1 -5
Estimated gray water flow -5 x 15 -75 gpd
AVERAGE
GRAY WATER
AMOUNTS:
/ 32 % of the typical household wastewater v generated is gray water .
~The average is 28 gallons /person /day .
16
DETERMINE THE TYPE OF SYSTEM NEEDED
Graywater systems may be (a) pressurized with a
pump, or (b) gravity fed. Either method can be used .
A major limiting factor of a gravity fed system is
sufficient slope on the property to allow proper
gray water flow .
TO SEWER
llTtNEI Slll
DISC HAIGETD
llACl WATEI
A common and easy gravity design that doesn 't
have slope limitations is just connecting the
irrigation system to the washing machine only.
WATUCLO SET
DISCM ARCETO
BUCK WATE R
LAVATOR Y
DI SC MARliE TO
li U.YWATER
"-------l
17
Item 12.a. - Page 77
18
COMPONENTS OF A GRAY WATER SYSTEM
SURGE TANKS
Surge tanks are not a mandatory part of all gray water systems , but use of
a surge tank allows the water to surge into the tank and be slowly released
into the landscape without causing soil erosion .
FILTERS
Filters are a recommended component of gray water systems. The filter
will catch clothes fibers that are in the clothes washing machine water.
PUMPS
When a tank is used to capture the gray water leaving the home , a
pump will be necessary . A pump allow s the system to be pre ss uriz ed
and improves the effic iency of the irrigation system by allow ing greater
control of water distribution.
SPECIAL FITTINGS
Special fittings may be required for gray water systems to function properly .
These fittings may be :
3-waydiverter
valve
BACK FLOW
Double Elbow fitting
may be best for the
gravity splitter
PVC Ball /Valve s/
Pipes may be used
for pressure /pumped
systems
If a pump is used to distribute the Gray Water, a reduced pressure
backflow assembly needs to be install ed on the potable water meter
connection to protect the public potable water system.
CULVERT SYSTEM
GRAY WATER FILTRATION AND PUMP SYSTEM TO IRRIGATION
Incoming
Gray Water
Overflow
Pipe to Sewer
Or Wastewater
System "
Float in Surge
Tank Activates
Pump
Pump Pushes Gray
Water From Surge
Tank Through
Sand Filter
Backwash Line
From Sand Filter
to Overflow Pipe
Manual Switch For
Backwash Flow
2" PVC Pipe Carries
Filtered Gray Water
to Irrigation Area
~
Note: Pipe RoutinJI
Has Been Simplif11d
for Clarity
"
Item 12.a. - Page 78
20
GRAY WATER DISTRIBUTION METHODS
SURFACE OR SUB -SURFACE IRRIGATION:
Drip irrigation is the most efficient method of landscape
watering with gray water. If this method is chosen , it is
recommended that a filter is used to prevent clogging
of smaller line s and emitters. Gray water drip emitters
should have a larger opening to prevent clogging.
SURFACE IRRIGATION
Direct water from the outlet onto the plants can be used .
Additionally, through surface grading modifications
channels, basins , berms and check dams can be utilized .
SUB-SURFACE IRRIGATION
Drip irrigation is the most efficient method of landscape
watering with gray water . Connect the gray water to a
buried irrigation delivery system such as drip lines or
bubblers that do not spray.
WHAT CAN I IRRIGATE?
Many plants that are on the Ar izona Department
of Water Resources Low Water Use Plant List
can be watered with gray water. The entire list
can be found at www.azwater.gov/AzDWR/
Watermanagement/AMA s/LowWaterUsePlant list.
htm#Tucson
Gray water can be used to irrigate fruit trees,
groundcovers, ornamental trees and shrubs and
some bedding plants , such as : begonias , petunias,
impatiens and geraniums . Salt-tolerate plants such
as oleander, bermuda grass, date palms, and native
desert plants , excluding cacti , are well suited to
irrigation with gray water .
Do not surface irrigate any plants that produce
food except for citru s and nut trees .
Avoid using gray water on plants that are salt
sensitive or need ac idic soil s. The water chemistry
of graywater is alkaline and has a higher salt
concentration.
Avoid using gray water on plants that prefer acid
conditions such as : ash , azalea , dicentra , foxglove ,
gardenia , hibiscus, philodendron , primrose ,
rhododendron , hydrangea , oxalis , violet , camelia ,
xylosma , and ferns.
Sandy soils are less vulnerable to damage than clay
soils because they drain better. In very low rainfall
areas , apply fresh water occas ionally to leach out
accumulated salts . Be aware that some harmful
effects are not always visible immediately and take
one or two years to appear. In any case, you should
always pay attention to the health of the plants
being irrigated and discontinue using gray water if
signs of stress are observed .
Most detergents contain high levels of
dis solved salt s and boron. Dissolved salts
in the irr igation system can devastate
the plants root system .
Select a low sodium, no boron , no chlor ine,
low alkalinity detergent. Examples of
detergents • that may work for your home are :
Alfa Kleen
All Regular
Bold
ERA Plus
Oasis
Shaklee
Yes
•SOURCE : ·Grt y W1ttr i nd Yo ur D11er1enr by Tucson Water, co pyrig ht 1993
THE #1 RULE
WHEN UTILIZING ./Do Not Spray Gray Water
GRAV WATER:
21
Item 12.a. - Page 79
!1
All gray water systems require maintenance. The
amount and type of maintenance will be dependent
on the system. Installation of a filter that is
maintained by routine washing will prevent the
system from clogging with lint and debris.
Gray water flow may be blocked for a number of
reasons li .e., plant roots , build -up of silt and lint),
the irrigation pipes will need routing flushing and/
or replacement. A properly built gray water system
will direct the overflow back into the sewer system
rather than onto the ground .
The gray water system should be routinely flushed,
about once a year or if you notice a foul odor.
An easy and safe way to flush the system is by
running water from the bathroom or the clothes
washer rinse cycle lno detergents). While doing the
flushing, watch to make sure everything is working
properly . Routine flushing with rainwater or potable
water also washes accumulated salts .
Gray water tanks utilizing pumps will need to
be monitored for water levels to prevent pump
damage. For example if the water level is too low
and the pump continues to run, it will fail.
The gray water system should be checked on a
monthly basis to ensure all the components are
properly functioning:
1. Inspect the tank to ensure that it is not housing
vectors such as mosquitoes or rats!
2. Check that the pump is working properly and
the float switch has free movement.
3. Indications of possible system malfunctions :
Surfacing water accumulation from
subsurface irrigation systems , OR
Water that is ponding too long
!more then 12 hours)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
This is a new ordinance that combines both City of
Tucson and Arizona Department of Environmental
Quality rules with Uniform Plumbing Codes !UPC).
Some details in the implementation of this ordinance
are in the gray area . The City of Tucson understands
that some components may have to be adjusted
over time . Please contact City of Tucson Planning
and Development Services at (520) 791-5550 for
additional guidance. For backflow questions. contact
Tucson Water at (520) 791 -2650 .
WILL THE STUB-OUT BE MARKED?
No. Each home will have two gray water stub-outs.
The gray water line coming from the bathtubs,
showers and lavatories will be located underground
near the building's main waste clean -out.
The gray water line coming from the washing
machine will be located on an exterior wall above
grade near the washing machine. Call Tucson Water
at (520) 791 ·4331 for gray water sign information.
DO GRAY WATER SYSTEMS
REQUIRE SIGNS?
Yes . If the building's gray water is used for
irrigation purposes, a sign must be posted to
identify the water is for non-potable use. The City
of Tucson will provide the initial sign. Replacement
signs are the responsibility of the gray water user.
IS THERE A COLOR DESIGNATED FOR GRAY
WATER SYSTEM COMPONENTS?
Yes . All non -potable water distribution lines must
have purple markings. The gray water drain lines
under the building are not required to be specifically
marked .
WHAT PLUMBING DEVICES ARE
APPROVED FOR CONNECTIONS?
Only bathtubs, showers, lavatories land hand sinks)
and washing machines are permitted to be used for
gray water collection.
CAN FITTINGS THAT ARE NOT
SPECIFICALLY APPROVED FOR GRAY
WATER USE BY THE UPC BE USED?
Non-listed fittings and fittings used in non-listed
fashion will be reviewed by the Building Official on
a case -by-case basis under an appeal process .
WHAT IS .. .?
Potable Water
Water that is suitable for drinking , cooking and
personal bathing .
Black Water
Wastewater containing fecal matter and urine.
Reclaimed Water
Wastewater that has been treated to remove solids
and certain impurities, and then used for landscape
irrigation or to recharge groundwater aquifers .
Gray Water
Wastewater that is collected from the drains of
hand -washing sinks, showers , bathtubs and clothes
washing machines.
2l
Item 12.a. - Page 80
LANDSCAPE DESIGN EXAMPLE
24
-~ e1~ O'F f';e..~t>\:5.e..
I-~uAJ=A
\ -LHOC.o \.ATE FLOW~
1-c.ttAPA.~L.. ~t
G.K.Jt..'1-
\N A~
~~l,,
~K \'\J\n\
· 112£1e:,A.nQPoJ
UME~
ILLUSTRATION BY :
Ann Williams,
Distinctive Desert Designs
25
Item 12.a. - Page 81
RESOURCES
ONLINE:
Cl Tucson Water
www.tucsonaz.gov/water/conservation
o Tucson Water Backflow Questions
www.tucsonaz.gov/water/backflow
o Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
www.azdeq.gov
o Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond
www.harvestingrainwater.com
o Oasis Design
www.oasisdesign.net
o ReWater• System Inc.
www.rewater.com
o Water Environment Research Foundation
www.werf.org/AM
LITERATURE:
o 0 Branched Drain Greywater Systems,"
by Art Ludwig, copyright 2000.
o 0 Builder's Greywater Guide,"
by Art Ludwig, copyright 1995.
D °Create an Oasis with Greywater,"
by Art Ludwig, copyright 1994 Art 1994·2005.
Z6
NOTES:
Item 12.a. - Page 82