CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE - MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE CHAPTER 15 - ALTERNATE WATER SOURCES FOR NONPOTABLE APPLICATIONS (Matrix Adoption Tables are non-regulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting Agency
BSC
BSC- CG
SFM
HCD
DSA
OSHPD
BSCC
DPH
AGR
DWR
CEC
CA
SL
SLC
1
2
1-AC
AC
SS
SS/C
1
2
3
4
Adopt Entire Chapter
X
X
X
X
Adopt Entire Chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)
This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: † The Office of the State Fire Marshal's adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
Intent
The provisions of this chapter are intended to:
Conserve potable water by facilitating greater reuse of laundry, shower, lavatory and similar sources of discharge, or by the use of alternate water sources, where available.
Reduce the number of non-compliant gray water systems by making legal compliance easily achievable.
Provide guidance for avoiding potentially unhealthful conditions.
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the construction, alteration, discharge, use and repair of alternate water source systems for nonpotable applications.
Where approved or required by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction, alternate water sources [reclaimed (recycled)
water, gray water, and on-site treated nonpotable
gray water] shall be permitted to be used in lieu of potable
water for the applications identified in this chapter.
Alternate
water source systems shall be designed in accordance
with this chapter by a registered design professional or who
demonstrates competency to design the alternate water
source system as required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Components, piping, and fittings used in any alternate
water source system shall be listed.
Exceptions: [BSC-CG, HCD 1]
A registered design professional is not required to
design gray water systems having a maximum
discharge capacity of 250 gallons per day (gal/d)
(0.011 L/s) for single family and multi-family
dwellings.
A registered design professional is not required to
design an on-site treated nonpotable water system for
single family dwellings having a maximum discharge
capacity of 250 gal/d (0.011 L/s).
Irrigation design plans shall meet the requirements of
the California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Division
2, Chapter 2.7, Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
It shall be
unlawful for a person to construct, install, alter, or cause to
be constructed, installed, or altered an alternate water
source system in a building or on its premises without first
obtaining a permit to do such work from the Authority
Having Jurisdiction. No changes or connections shall be
made to either the alternate water source system or the
potable water system within a site containing an alternate
water source system without approval by the Authority
Having Jurisdiction.
Alternate water source systems and components
shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with the
manufacturer's recommendations and/or as required by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction. [BSC-CG] Where no manufacturer's
recommendations exist, additional recommendations
are listed in Table 1501.5.
Inspect and clean filters and screens, and replace (where necessary).
In accordance with manufacturer's instructions, and/or the Authority Having Jurisdiction, or every 3 months
Inspect and verify that disinfection, filters and water quality treatment devices and systems are operational and maintaining minimum water quality requirements as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
In accordance with manufacturer's instructions, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Inspect pumps and verify operation.
In accordance with manufacturer's instructions, and/or the Authority Having Jurisdiction, or after installation and every 12 months thereafter.
Inspect valves and verify operation.
In accordance with manufacturer's instructions, and/or Authority Having Jurisdiction, or after installation and every 12 months thereafter.
The required maintenance and inspection of alternate water
source systems shall be the responsibility of the property
owner, unless otherwise required by the Authority
Having Jurisdiction.
An operation and maintenance manual for gray water and on-site treated nonpotable water systems required to have a permit in accordance with Section 1501.3 and Section 1504.2 shall be supplied to the building owner by the system designer or installer. The operating and maintenance manual shall include the following:
Diagram(s) of the entire system and the location of system components.
Instructions on operating and maintaining the system.
Instructions on maintaining the required water quality for on-site treated nonpotable water systems.
Details on startup, shutdown, and deactivating the system for maintenance, repair, or other purposes.
Applicable testing, inspection, and maintenance frequencies in accordance with Section 1501.5.
A method of contacting the installer and/or manufacturer(s).
Directions to the owner or occupant that the manual shall remain with the building throughout the life cycle of the structure.
[DWR] An operation and maintenance manual for recycled water supply systems required to have a permit in accordance with Section 1501.3 and Section 1503.2 shall be supplied to the building owner by the system designer or installer. The operating and maintenance manual shall include the following:
Diagram(s) of the entire system and the location of system components.
Instructions on operating and maintaining the system.
Details on startup, shutdown, and deactivating the system for maintenance, repair, or other purposes.
Applicable testing, inspection, and maintenance frequencies in accordance with Section 1501.5 or Section 1503.15 as applicable.
A method of contacting the installer and/or manufacturer(s).
Directions to the owner or occupant that the manual shall remain with the building throughout the life cycle of the structure.
The minimum water quality for alternate water source systems shall meet the applicable water quality requirements for the intended application as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. [BSC-CG, HCD 1]Water quality requirements for on-site treated nonpotable graywater shall comply with Section 1504.10.2. [DWR] Recycled water shall comply with the water quality requirements of Section 1503.14.
Exception: Water treatment is not required for gray water used in a disposal field or for subsurface or subsoil irrigation.
Alternate water source systems shall be constructed of materials that are compatible with the type of pipe and fitting materials, water treatment,
and water conditions in the system.
Controls for pumps, valves, and other devices that contain mercury that come in contact with alternate water source water supply shall not be permitted.
A sign shall be installed
in restrooms in commercial, industrial, and institutional
occupancies, and in residential common use areas
using on-site treated nonpotable gray water for water
closets, urinals, or both. Signs shall comply with all
applicable requirements of the California Building
Code. Each sign shall contain the following text:
TO CONSERVE WATER, THIS BUILDING USES
ON-SITE TREATED NONPOTABLE GRAYWATER
TO FLUSH TOILETS AND URINALS
Each room
containing on-site treated nonpotable gray water equipment
shall have a sign posted in a location that is
visible to anyone working on or near nonpotable gray
water equipment with the following wording in 1 inch
(25.4 mm) letters:
CAUTION: ON-SITE TREATED NONPOTABLE
GRAYWATER, DO NOT DRINK. DO NOT
CONNECT TO DRINKING WATER SYSTEM.
NOTICE: CONTACT BUILDING MANAGEMENT
BEFORE PERFORMING ANY WORK ON THIS
WATER SYSTEM.
Prior to commencing the cross-connection testing, a dual system inspection shall be conducted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction and other authorities having jurisdiction as follows:
Pumps and equipment, equipment room signs,
and exposed piping in equipment room shall
be checked
Valves shall be checked to ensure that the
valve lock seals are still in place and intact.
Valve control door signs shall be checked to
verify that no signs have been removed.
The potable water system shall be activated
and pressurized. The alternate water source
system shall be shut down, depressurized, and
drained.
The potable water system shall remain pressurized
for a minimum period of time specified
by the Authority Having Jurisdiction
while the alternate water source system is
empty. The minimum period the alternate
water source system is to remain depressurized
shall be determined on a case-by-case
basis, taking into account the size and
complexity of the potable and the alternate
water source distribution systems but in no
case shall that period be less than 1 hour
The potable water system shall then be
depressurized and drained.
The alternate water source system shall then
be activated and pressurized. When an alternate
water source is not available for the
initial test, a temporary connection to a
potable water supply shall be required. At the
conclusion of the test, the temporary connection
to the potable water supply shall be
disconnected.
The alternate water source system shall
remain pressurized for a minimum period of
time specified by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction while the potable water system
is empty. The minimum period the potable
water system is to remain depressurized
shall be determined on a case-by-case basis,
but in no case shall that period be less than 1
hour.
Fixtures, potable and alternate water source,
shall be tested and inspected for flow. Flow
from a potable water system outlet indicates a
cross-connection. No flow from an alternate
water source outlet will indicate that it is
connected to the potable water system
The drain on the potable water system shall be
checked for flow during the test and at the end
of the test.
Where there is no flow detected in the fixtures
which would indicate a cross-connection, the
potable water system shall be repressurized.
The potable water system shall be chlorinated
with 50 parts-per-million (ppm) chlorine for
24 hours.
The potable water system shall be flushed
after 24 hours, and a standard bacteriological
test shall be performed. Where test results are
acceptable, the potable water system shall be
permitted to be recharged.
Underground alternate water sourceservice piping other than gray water shall be
separated from the building sewer in accordance with this code. Treated non potable waterpipes shall be permitted to be run or laid in the same trench as potable waterpipes with a 12 inch (305 mm) minimum vertical and horizontal separation where both pipe materials are approved for use within a building. Where horizontal piping materials do not comply with this requirement the minimum separation shall be increased to 60 inches (1524 mm). The potable water piping shall be installed at an elevation above the treated nonpotable water piping.
An abandoned system or part thereof covered under the scope of this chapter shall be disconnected from remaining systems, drained,
plugged, and capped in an approved manner.
An underground water
storage tank that has been abandoned or otherwise
discontinued from use in a system covered under the
scope of this chapter shall be completely drained and
filled with earth, sand, gravel, concrete, or other
approved material or removed in a manner satisfactory
to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the construction, alteration, and repair of gray water systems. A city, county, or city and county or other local
government may adopt, after a public hearing and enactment of an ordinance or resolution, building standards that are more restrictive than the gray water building standards adopted in this code. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 18941.7.
All gray water systems shall be designed with a diverter valve to allow the user to direct the flow to the building sewer and either the irrigation field or disposal field, whichever is used. The means of changing the direction flow of the gray water shall be clearly labeled and readily accessible to the user
Water used to wash diapers or similarly soiled or infectious garments or other prohibited contents shall be diverted by the user to the building sewer.
Gray water shall not be used in spray irrigation, allowed to pond or runoff and shall not be discharged directly into or reach any storm sewer system or any surface body of water.
Human contact with gray water or the soil irrigated by gray water shall be minimized and avoided, except as required to maintain the gray water system. The discharge point of any gray water subsoil irrigation or subsurface irrigation field shall be covered by at least (2) inches (51 mm) of mulch, rock, or soil, or a solid shield to minimize the possibility of human contact.
Gray water may be released above the ground surface provided at least two (2) inches (51 mm) of mulch, rock, or soil, or a solid shield covers the release point. Other methods which provide equivalent separation are also acceptable.
Gray water shall not contain hazardous chemicals derived from activities such as cleaning car parts, washing greasy or oily rags, or disposing of waste solutions.
[HCD 1] The prohibition in Subsection (F) includes, but is not limited to, home photo labs or other similar hobbyist or home occupational activities.
[BSC] photo labs or similar activities.
Exemption from construction permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any gray water system to be installed in a manner that violates other provisions of this code or any other laws
or ordinances of the Enforcing Agency.
An operation and maintenance manual shall be provided to the owner. Directions shall indicate that the manual is to remain with the building throughout the life of the system and upon change of ownership or occupancy.
A gray water system shall not be connected to any potable water system without an air gap, reduced-pressure principle backflow preventer, or other physical device which prevents backflow and shall not cause ponding or runoff of gray water.
A clothes washer system in compliance with all of the following is exempt from the construction permit specified in Section 1.8.4.1 and may be installed or altered without
a construction permit:
If required, notification has been provided to the enforcing agency regarding the proposed location and installation of a gray water irrigation or
disposal system.
The design shall allow the user to direct the flow to the irrigation or disposal field or the building sewer. The direction control of the gray water shall be clearly labeled and readily accessible to the user.
The installation, change, alteration, or repair of the system does not include a potable water connection or a pump and does not affect other
building, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical components including structural features, egress, fire-life safety, sanitation, potable water supply piping, or accessibility.
Note: The pump in a clothes washer shall not be
considered part of the gray water system.
The gray water shall be contained on the site where it is generated.
Gray water shall be directed to and contained within an irrigation or disposal field.
Ponding or runoff is prohibited and shall be considered a nuisance.
Gray water may be released above the ground surface provided at least two (2) inches (51 mm) of mulch, rock, or soil, or a solid shield covers the release point. Other methods which provide equivalent separation are also acceptable.
Gray water systems shall be designed to minimize contact with humans and domestic pets.
Water used to wash diapers or similarly soiled or infectious garments shall not be used and shall be diverted to the building sewer.
Gray water shall not contain hazardous chemicals derived from activities such as cleaning car parts, washing greasy or oily rags, or disposing of waste
solutions from home photo labs or similar hobbyist or home occupational activities.
Exemption from construction permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any gray water system to be installed
in a manner that violates other provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of the enforcing agency.
An operation and maintenance manual shall be provided to the owner. Directions shall indicate that the manual is to remain with the building
throughout the life of the system and upon change of ownership or occupancy.
The discharge capacity of a gray water system
shall be determined by Section 1502.8. Simple
systems have a discharge capacity of 250 gallons
(947 L) per day or less.
Simple systems shall require a construction permit, unless exempted from a construction permit by the Enforcing Agency. The Enforcing Agency shall consult with the water purveyor for any public water system (as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 116275) providing drinking water to the dwelling or non-residential structure before allowing an exemption from a construction permit.
Complex systems shall require a construction permit, unless exempted from a construction permit by the Enforcing Agency. The Enforcing Agency shall consult with the water purveyor for any public water system (as defined in Health and Safety Code, Section 116275) providing drinking water to the dwelling or non-residential structure before allowing an exemption from a construction permit.
Gray water shall be
permitted to be diverted away from a sewer or private
sewage disposal system, and discharge to a subsurface irrigation or subsoil irrigation system, or disposal field. The
gray water shall be permitted to discharge to a mulch basin
for residential occupancies. Gray water shall not be used to
irrigate root crops or food crops intended for human
consumption that come in contact with soil.
Gray water systems shall be designed to have the capacity to accommodate peak flow rates and distribute the total amount of estimated gray water on a daily basis to a subsurface irrigation field, subsoil irrigation field, disposal field, or mulch basin without surfacing, ponding, or runoff. A surge tank is required for systems that are unable to accommodate
peak flow rates and distribute the total amount of gray water by gravity drainage. The water discharge for gray water systems shall be determined in accordance with Section 1502.8.1.
Exception: It is not the intent of this section to require that all gray water must be handled by an irrigation field or disposal field. It is acceptable for excess gray water to be diverted to the building sewer through a diverter valve or overflow drain as permitted in this chapter.
The gray water system shall connect to the sanitary drainage system downstream of fixture traps and vent connections through an approved diverter valve. The diverter valve shall be installed in a readily accessible location and clearly indicate the
direction of flow.
Gray water drains subject to backflow shall be provided with a backwater valveat the point of connection to the building sewer system,
so located as to be accessible for inspection and maintenance.
Gray water systems shall have no
direct connection to a potable water supply, on-site treated
nonpotable water supply, or reclaimed (recycled) water
supply systems.
Exceptions:
Potable water, on-site treated nonpotable water,
reclaimed (recycled) water, or rainwater is permitted
to be used as makeup water for a non-pressurized
storage tank provided the connection is protected by an
air gap in accordance with this code.
A potable water supply may be connected temporarily
for initial testing of the untreated graywater system as
required in Section 1501.11.2.2.
No gray water system or part thereof
shall be located on a lot other than the lot that is the site of
the building or structure that discharges the gray water, nor
shall a gray water system or part thereof be located at a
point having less than the minimum distances indicated in
Table 1502.4.
Exception: When there exists a lawfully recorded perpetual and exclusive covenant to an easement appurtenant and right-of-way between adjoining land-owners of two or more contiguous lots to discharge gray water from one lot to an adjoining lot.
1Building structures do not include porches and steps, whether covered or uncovered, breezeways, roofed carports, roofed porte cocheres, roofed patios,
carports, covered walks, covered driveways, and similar structures or appurtenances.
3Underground tanks shall not be located within a 45 degree angle from the bottom of the foundation, or they shall be designed to address the surcharge
imposed by the structure. The distance may be reduced to six (6) inches (153 mm) for aboveground tanks when first approved by the Enforcing Agency.
4 Where special hazards are involved, the distance required shall be increased as directed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
5 These minimum clear horizontal
distances shall apply between the irrigation or disposal field and the ocean mean higher high tide line
6 Add 2 feet (610 mm) for each additional foot of depth in excess of 1 foot (305 mm) below the bottom of the drain line
8 The distance shall be permitted to be reduced to 11/2 feet (457 mm) for drip and mulch basin irrigation systems
9 The distance shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 feet for surge tanks of 75 gallons (284 L) or less
10The minimum horizontal distance may be reduced to 50 feet (15240 mm) for irrigation or disposal fields utilizing gray water which has been filtered prior to entering the distribution piping.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction may require the following information to be included with or in the plot plan before a permit is issued for a gray water system, or at a time during the construction thereof:
Plot plan drawn to scale and completely dimensioned, showing lot lines and structures, direction and approximate slope of surface, location of present or proposed retaining walls, drainage channels, water supply lines,
wells, paved areas and structures on the plot, number of bedrooms and plumbing fixtures in each structure, location of private sewage disposal system and expansion area or building sewer connecting to the public sewer, and location of the proposed gray water system.
Details of construction necessary to ensure compliance with the requirements of this chapter, together with a full description of the complete installation, including installation methods, construction, and materials.
Details for holding tanks shall include dimensions, structural calculations, bracings, and such other pertinent data as required.
A log of soil formations and groundwater level as determined by test holes dug in proximity to proposed irrigation and/or disposal area, together with a statement of water absorption characteristics of the soil at the proposed site as determined by approved percolation tests.
Exceptions:
The Enforcing Agency may waive the requirement for identification of groundwater level and/or soil absorption qualities based on knowledge of local conditions.
The absence of groundwater in a test hole three (3) vertical feet (915 mm) below the deepest irrigation or disposal point shall be sufficient to
satisfy this section unless seasonal high groundwater levels have been documented to rise to within this area
Distance between the plot and surface waters such as
lakes, ponds, rivers or streams, and the slope between
the plot and the surface water, where in close proximity
Exception: It is not the intent of this section to require that all gray water must be handled by an irrigation field or disposal field. It is acceptable for excess gray water to be diverted to the building sewer through a diverter valve or overflow drain as permitted in this chapter
The gray water discharge for residential occupancies shall be calculated by water use records, calculations of local daily per person interior water use, or the following procedure:
The number of occupants of each dwelling unit
shall be calculated as follows:
First Bedroom
2 occupants
Each additional bedroom
1 occupant
The estimated gray water flows of each occupant shall be calculated as follows:
Showers, bathtubs, and lavatories
25 gallons (95 L) per day/occupant
Laundry
15 gallons (57 L) per day/occupant
The total number of occupants shall be multiplied by the applicable estimated gray water discharge as provided above and the type of fixtures
connected to the gray water system.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction may utilize the gray water discharge procedures listed below, water use records, or other documentation to
estimate gray water discharge.
Daily discharge from lavatories may be determined by the following equation:
(Equation 15.1)
Occupants X lavatory flow rate X 3
Where:
The number of occupants = square footage of the
building divided by the occupant load factor from
the California Plumbing Code Chapter 4, Table A.
Lavatory fixture flow rate, new construction =
That from the California Green Building Standards
(CALGreen) Code Section 5.303.2.3
Lavatory fixture flow rate, existing fixtures =
Actual flow rate for existing fixtures
Gray water systems using tanks shall be designed to minimize the amount of time gray water is held in the tank and shall be sized to distribute the total amount of estimated gray water on
a daily basis.
Exception:Approved on-site treated non potable gray
water systems.
Where installed, surge tanks shall be in accordance with the following:
Surge tanks shall be constructed of solid, durable materials not subject to excessive corrosion or decay and shall be watertight. Aboveground surge tanks shall be protected from direct sunlight or shall be constructed of UV resistant materials including but not limited to heavily tinted or opaque plastic, fiberglass, lined metal, concrete and wood.Surge tanks constructed of steel shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, provided such tanks are in accordance with approved applicable standards.
Each surge tank shall be vented in accordance with this code. The vent size shall be determined based on the total gray water fixture units as outlined in this code.
Each surge tank shall have an access opening with lockable gasketed covers or approved equivalent to allow for inspection and cleaning.
Each surge tank shall have its rated capacity permanently marked on the unit. In addition, a sign stating GRAY WATER SYSTEM, CAUTION UNSAFE
WATER shall be permanently marked on the holding tank.
The overflow drainpipes shall not be less in size than the inlet pipe. Unions or equally effective fittings shall be provided for piping connected to the surge tank.
Surge tank shall be structurally designed to withstand anticipated earth or other loads. Surge tank covers shall be capable of supporting an earth load of not less than 300 pounds per square foot (lb/ft2) (1465 kg/m2) where the tank is designed for underground installation.
Where a surge tank is installed underground, the system shall be designed so that the tank overflow will gravity drain to the existing sewer line or septic tank. The tank shall be protected against sewer line backflow by a backwater valve installed in accordance with this code.
Surge tanks shall be installed on dry, level, well compacted soil where underground or on a level 3 inch (76 mm) thick concrete slab or other approved method where aboveground.
Surge tanks shall be anchored to prevent against overturning where installed aboveground. Underground tanks shall be ballasted, anchored, or otherwise secured, to prevent the tank from floating out of the ground where empty. The combined weight of the tank and hold down system shall meet or exceed the buoyancy forces of the tank.
Aboveground and underground building drainage and vent pipe and fittings for gray water systems shall comply with the requirements for aboveground and
underground sanitary building drainage and vent pipe and fittings in this code. These materials shall extend not less than 2 feet (610 mm) outside the building.
Gray water tank openings shall be protected to prevent the entrance of insects, birds, or rodents into the tank and piping systems. Screens installed on vent pipes, inlets, and overflow pipes shall have an aperture of not greater than 1/16 of an inch (1.6 mm) and shall be close fitting.
Irrigation or disposal fields shall be permitted to have one or more valved zones. Each zone shall be of a size to receive the gray water anticipated in that zone.
The minimum effective irrigation area of subsurface irrigation fields, subsoil irrigation fields, and mulch basins shall be determined by Table 1502.10 for the type of soil found in the excavation, based upon a calculation of estimated gray water discharge pursuant to Section 1502.8. For a subsoil irrigation field, the area shall be equal to the aggregate length of the perforated pipe sections within the valved zone multiplied by the width of the proposed subsoil irrigation field.
The irrigation field and mulch basin size shall be based on the maximum absorption capacity of the soil and determined using Table 1502.10. For soils
not listed in Table 1502.10, the maximum absorption capacity for the proposed site shall be determined by percolation tests or other method acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction. A gray water system shall not be permitted, where the percolation test shows the absorption capacity of the soil is unable to accommodate the maximum discharge of the proposed gray
water irrigation system.
Exceptions:
The Enforcing Agency may waive the requirement for identification of groundwater level and/or soil absorption qualities based on knowledge of local conditions
Irrigation fields in compliance with Section 1502.11.2 which only utilize drip type emitters are exempt from percolation tests.
No excavation for an irrigation field, disposal field, or mulch basin shall
extend within 3 feet (914 mm) vertical of the highest known seasonal groundwater level, nor to a depth where gray water contaminates the groundwater or surface water. The applicant shall supply evidence of groundwater depth to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Note: The absence of groundwater in a test hole three (3) vertical feet (915 mm) below the deepest irrigation or disposal point shall be sufficient to satisfy this section unless seasonal high groundwater levels have been documented to rise to within this area.
Irrigation fields, disposal fields and mulch basins used in gray water systems shall comply with this section. Gray water systems may contain either an irrigation field or a disposal field or a combination of both. This section is not intended to prevent the use of other methods of gray water irrigation or disposal approved by the Enforcing Agency.
[BSC-CG] Irrigation design shall be verified in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Chapter 5, Division 5.3.
TABLE 1502.11
SUBSURFACE IRRIGATION DESIGN
CRITERIA FOR SIX TYPICAL SOILS
TYPE OF SOIL
MAXIMUM EMITTER DISCHARGE (gallons per day)
MINIMUM NUMBER OF EMITTERS PER GALLON OF ESTIMATED GRAY WATER DISCHARGE PER DAY* (gallons per day)
Sand
1.8
0.6
Sandy loam
1.4
0.7
Loam
1.2
0.9
Clay loam
0.9
1.1
Silty clay
0.6
1.6
Clay
0.5
2.0
For SI units: 1 gallon per day = 0.000043 L/s
* The estimated gray water discharge per day shall be determined in accordance with Section 1502.8 of this code.
A mulch basin may be used as an irrigation or disposal field. Mulch basins shall be sized in accordance with Table 1502.10 and of sufficient depth, length and width to prevent ponding or
runoff during the gray water surge of a clothes washer, bathtub or shower. Mulch must be replenished as required due to decomposition of organic matter.
Mulch basins will require periodic maintenance, reshaping or removal of dirt to maintain surge capacity and to accommodate plant growth and prevent ponding or runoff.
The provisions of this section are not intended to prevent the use of any
appropriate material, appliance, installation, device, design or method of construction. If an alternate design is not available, the following provisions may be used as guidance in the design of a gray water irrigation
field:
Filters used in gray water irrigation systems shall be as specified by the manufacturer's installation instructions for the design flow rate and intended use. The filter backwash and flush discharge shall be contained and disposed of into the building sewer system, septic tank or, with approval of the Enforcing Agency, a separate mini-leach field sized to accept all the backwash and flush discharge water. Filter backwash water and flush water shall not be used for any purpose. Sanitary procedures
shall be followed when handling filter backwash and flush discharge or gray water.
Emitters shall be designed to resist root intrusion and shall be of a design recommended by the manufacturer for the intended gray water flow and
use. For emitter ratings, refer to Irrigation Equipment Performance Report, Drip Emitters and Micro-Sprinklers, Center for Irrigation Technology,
California State University, 5730 N. Chestnut Avenue, Fresno, California 93740-0018.
Each irrigation zone shall be designed to include no less than the number of emitters specified in Table 1502.11, or through a procedure designated by the Enforcing Agency. Minimum spacing between emitters in any direction shall be sufficient to prevent surfacing or runoff.
The system design shall provide user controls, such as valves, switches, timers and other controllers, as appropriate, to rotate the distribution of gray water between irrigation zones.
All drip irrigation supply lines shall be polyethylene tubing or PVC Class 200 pipe or better and Schedule 40 fittings. All joints shall be pressure tested at 40 psi (276 kPa), and shown to be drip tight for five minutes, before burial. All supply piping shall be covered to a minimum depth of two (2) inches (51 mm) of mulch or soil. Drip feeder lines can be poly or flexible PVC tubing and shall be covered to a minimum depth of two (2) inches (51 mm) of mulch or soil.
Where pressure at the discharge side of the pump exceeds 20 psi (138 kPa), a pressure-reducing valve able to maintain downstream pressure no
greater than the maximum operating pressure of the installed tubing, emitters, or other components shall be installed downstream from the pump and before any emission device.
When an irrigation system utilizes a pump, and discharges water at a point higher than the pump, a backwater valve shall be installed downstream of the pump to prevent back siphonage of water and soil.
The provisions of this section are not intended to prevent the use of any
appropriate material, appliance, installation, device, design or method of construction. If an alternate design is not available the following provisions may be used as guidance in the design of a gray water disposal
field:
Disposal systems shall be not less than three (3) inches (80 mm) in cross sectional dimension and shall be constructed of perforated high-density polyethylene pipe, perforated ABS pipe, perforated PVC pipe, leaching chambers or other approved materials, provided that sufficient openings are available for distribution of the gray water into the trench area. Material, construction, and perforation shall be in compliance with the appropriate absorption fields drainage standards and shall be approved by the Enforcing Agency.
Filter material, clean stone, gravel, slag, or similar filter material acceptable to the Enforcing Agency, varying in size from three-quarter (3/4) inch (19.1 mm) to two and one-half (2 1/2) inches (64 mm) shall be placed in the trench to the depth
and grade required by this section. The perforated section shall be laid on the filter material in an approved manner. The perforated section shall
then be covered with filter material to the minimum depth required by this section. The filter material shall then be covered with untreated
building paper, straw, or similar porous material to prevent closure of voids with earth backfill. No earth backfill shall be placed over the filter material cover until after inspection and acceptance.
Exception: Manufactured leaching chambers shall be installed in compliance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Disposal fields shall be constructed in accordance with Table 1502.11.3.
When necessary on sloping ground to prevent excessive line slopes, disposal lines shall be stepped or installed on the contour lines of the
slope. The lines between each horizontal leaching section shall be made with approved water-tight joints and installed on natural or unfilled ground.
Pressurized gray water distribution systems shall be identified as containing nonpotable water in accordance with Section 601.3 of this code. Marking shall be at intervals not to exceed 5 feet (1524 mm). Gray water distribution
piping upstream of any connection to an irrigation or disposal field or a distribution valve shall be identified with the words "CAUTION: NONPOTABLE GRAY WATER, DO NOT DRINK".
Gray water stub-out plumbing may be allowed for future connection prior to the installation of irrigation lines and landscaping. Stub-out shall be permanently marked "CAUTION: NONPOTABLE GRAY WATER, DO NOT DRINK."
Building drains and vents for gray water systems shall be tested in accordance with this code. Surge tanks shall be filled with water to the overflow line prior to and during inspection. Seams and joints shall be left
exposed, and the tank shall remain watertight. A flow test shall be performed through the system to the point of gray water discharge. Lines and components shall be watertight up to the point of the irrigation perforated and drip lines.
Allowed uses shall include
water closets, urinals, trap primers for floor drains and
floor sinks, industrial or commercial cooling or air
conditioning and other uses as generally allowed in the
California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4,
Chapter 3 and specifically allowed in the permit for the
facility producing or supplying the reclaimed (recycled)
water issued by the State Water Resources
Control Board or Regional Water Quality Control
Board.
In accordance with Water Code Section
13553, reclaimed (recycled) water shall be allowed for
toilet and urinal flushing in certain structures. These
structures include commercial, retail, and office buildings,
theaters, auditoriums, condominium projects,
schools, hotels, apartments, barracks, dormitories,
jails, prisons, reformatories, and other structures as
determined by the State Water Resources Control
Board.
It shall be unlawful for a person to
construct, install, alter, or cause to be constructed, installed,
or altered a recycled water supply system within a building
or on its premises without first obtaining a permit to do
such work from the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Prior to commencing the issuance of permits for recycledwater supply systems pursuant to state requirements
relating to recycled water, a city, county, city and county or
other local agency shall seek consultation with the State
Water Resources Control Board, local public health department
and local recycled water purveyor to ensure that state
and local public health concerns are addressed in local
standards or ordinances, or in issuing permits
Potable water is permitted to be used as makeup water
for a reclaimed (recycled) water storage tank provided
the potable water supply inlet is protected by an air gap
in accordance with this code.
A potable water supply may be connected temporarily
for initial testing of the recycled water supply system as
provided in Section 1503.13.2.2. Prior to temporarily
connecting the potable line to the recycled water
supply system for initial testing purposes, the potable
line must have a reduced-pressure principle backflow
preventer installed.
Recycledwater supply system materials shall comply with the
requirements of this code for potable water supply and
distribution systems, unless otherwise provided for in this
section.
All mechanical equipment,
including control valves, appurtenant to recycled water
supply systems shall be painted purple or composed of
purple material matching Pantone color No. 512, 522C or
equivalent. Recycled water supply systems shall be identified
and permanently marked with clearly visible black
uppercase lettering on purple background. The identification
may be accomplished by labeling metallic and nonmetallic
piping using purple-colored (Pantone color No.
512) adhesive Mylar PVC tape affixed along the entire
length of the pipe, or using non-metallic pipe manufactured
with purple (Pantone color No. 512, 522C, or equivalent)
integral to the material. For either material, the tape or
pipe shall be installed so the wording is clearly visible and
shall be field or factory marked as follows:
"CAUTION: NONPOTABLE RECYCLED WATER, DO
NOT DRINK".
The master reclaimed (recycled)
water shut-off valve and/or the reclaimed (recycled)
water meter curb cock and each valve within a wall
shall be sealed after the recycled water supply system
has been approved and placed into operation. These
seals shall be either crimped lead wire seal or plastic
break away seal which, if broken after system
approval, shall be deemed conclusive evidence that the
recycled water supply system has been accessed. The
seals shall be purple, numbered, and contain the words
"RECYCLED WATER", and shall be supplied by the
recycled water purveyor, or by other arrangements
acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Each reclaimed (recycled) water valve within a wall
shall have its access door into the wall equipped with a
warning sign approximately 6 inches by 6 inches (152
mm x 152 mm) with wording in approximately 3/8 inch
(9.5 mm) letters on a purple background. The wording
text and format of the sign shall be substantially the
same as that specified in Section 1503.12.3. The signs
shall be attached inside the access door frame and
shall hang in the center of the access door frame. This
sign requirement shall be applicable to any and all
access doors, hatches, etc., leading to reclaimed (recycled)
water piping and appurtenances.
Hose bibbs shall not be allowed on
reclaimed (recycled) water piping systems. Only quick
couplers that differ from those installed on the potable
water system shall be used on the recycled water piping
system in areas subject to public access. Quick couplers
supplying reclaimed (recycled) water shall be marked with
the words: "CAUTION: NONPOTABLE RECYCLED
WATER, DO NOT DRINK," and one of the symbols in
Figure 1503.9.
Exception: In accordance with Health and Safety Code
Sections 8117 and 8118, hose bibbs are approved for use in
cemeteries supplied with reclaimed (recycled) water. A
hose bibb in an area subject to access by the general public
shall be equipped with a sign marked
"CAUTION:
NONPOTABLE RECYCLED WATER, DO NOT DRINK,"
and one of the symbols in Figure 1503.9.
The recycled water
supply system and the potable water system within the
building and the premises shall be provided with the
required appurtenances (e.g., valves, air/vacuum relief
valves, etc.) to allow for testing as required for a cross-connection
test in accordance with Section 1503.13.2.
Reclaimed (recycled)
water pipes shall be permitted to be run or laid in the
same trench as potable waterpipes with 12 inches (305
mm) minimum vertical and horizontal separation where
both pipe materials are approved for use within a building.
Where piping materials do not meet this requirement the
minimum horizontal separation shall be increased to 48
inches (1220 mm). The potable water piping shall be
installed at an elevation above the reclaimed (recycled)
water piping. Reclaimed (recycled) water pipes laid in the
same trench or crossing building sewer or drainage piping
shall be installed in accordance with Section 609.0 and
Section 720.0 of this code for water pipes.
Signs in rooms and water closet tanks in
buildings using reclaimed (recycled) water shall be in accordance
with Section 1503.12.1, Section 1503.12.2, and
Section 1503.12.3. Signs on access doors to valves and
appurtenances shall be in accordance with Section 1503.8.2.
A sign shall be installed
in each restroom of commercial, industrial, and institutional
occupancies, and in residential common use
areas using reclaimed (recycled) water for water
closets, urinals, or both. Each sign shall contain letters
of a highly visible color on a contrasting background
with a character height as specified in the California
Building Code (California Code of Regulations, Title
24, Part 2), Section 1143A.5 and Section 11B-703.5.
The location of the sign(s) shall be such that the sign(s)
are visible to users and shall be approved by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction. The sign(s) shall
contain the following text:
TO CONSERVE WATER, THIS BUILDING USES
RECYCLED WATER TO FLUSH TOILETS AND
URINALS.
Where tank-type
toilets (water closets) are flushed with recycled water,
a permanent sign (such as plastic or stainless steel)
shall be installed inside the tank to warn that the water
within the tank is not a suitable emergency drinking
water supply. The sign shall be labeled: "CAUTION:
NONPOTABLE RECYCLED WATER — DO NOT
DRINK."
Each room
containing reclaimed (recycled) water equipment shall
have a sign posted in a location that is visible to
anyone working on or near reclaimed (recycled) water
equipment with the following wording in 1 inch (25.4
mm) letters on a purple background:
CAUTION: NONPOTABLE RECYCLED WATER, DO
NOT DRINK. DO NOT CONNECT TO DRINKING
WATER SYSTEM. NOTICE: CONTACT BUILDING
MANAGEMENT BEFORE PERFORMING ANY
WORK ON THIS WATER SYSTEM.
Recycled water supply
systems shall be inspected and tested in accordance with
Section 1503.13.1 and Section 1503.13.2. The reclaimed
(recycled) water purveyor or other designated appointee
may substitute for the Authority Having Jurisdiction for the
purpose of inspections and tests pursuant to this section.
An initial visual inspection and cross-connection test
shall be performed on both the potable and recycledwater supply systems before the initial operation of the
reclaimed (recycled) water source system. During an
initial or subsequent cross-connection test, the potable
and reclaimed (recycled) water source system shall be
isolated from each other and independently inspected
and tested to ensure there is no cross-connection in
accordance with Section 1503.13.2.2. Initial or subsequent
inspections or tests shall be performed in accordance
with Section 1503.13.2.1 through Section
1503.13.2.4.
Written reports of cross-connection inspections
and testing shall be performed as provided in California
Code of Regulations, Title 22, Section
60316.
A cross-connection test pursuant to Section
1503.13.2.2 shall be performed on the premises of
a recycled water supply system when there is
material reason to believe that the potable water
system or recycled water supply system separation
from another water supply has been compromised.
A material reason to believe that the system has
been compromised may be based on, but is not
limited to, evidence gathered (a) during a visual
inspection performed pursuant to Section
1503.13.2.1, (b) as a result of an inspection
performed following complaints of water quality
or flow conditions consistent with a compromised
system, or (c) during a visual inspection that indicates
that the reclaimed (recycled) water supply
system has been modified.
A visual
dual system inspection shall be conducted by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction and other authorities
having jurisdiction to verify that no modifications
were made, and that no cross-connections
are visible as follows:
Meter locations of the reclaimed (recycled)
water source and potable water lines shall be
checked.
All pumps and equipment, equipment room
signs, and exposed piping in equipment room
shall be checked.
All valves shall be checked to ensure that the
valve lock seals are still in place and intact.
Valve control door signs shall be checked to
verify that no signs have been removed.
A cross-connection
test shall be performed pursuant to
Section 1503.13.2. The test shall be conducted in
the presence of the Authority Having Jurisdiction
or other authorities having jurisdiction to determine
whether a cross connection has occurred as
follows:
The potable water system shall be activated
and pressurized. The recycled water supply
system shall be shut down, depressurized, and
drained.
The potable water system shall remain pressurized
for a minimum period of time specified
by the Authority Having Jurisdiction while the
recycled water supply system is empty. The
minimum period the recycled water supply
system is to remain depressurized shall be
determined on a case-by-case basis, taking
into account the size and complexity of the
potable and the recycled water supply
systems, but in no case shall that period be
less than 1 hour.
All fixtures, potable and reclaimed (recycled)
water source, shall be tested and inspected for
flow. Flow from a reclaimed (recycled) water
source system outlet indicates a cross-connection.
No flow from a potable water outlet shall
indicate that it is connected to the recycledwater supply system.
The potable water system shall then be
depressurized and drained.
The recycled water supply system shall then
be activated and pressurized. For the initial
test, a temporary connection to a potable
water supply shall be required to test the recycledwater supply systemplumbing. At the
conclusion of the test, the temporary connection
to the potable water supply shall be
disconnected.
The recycled water supply system shall remain
pressurized for a minimum period of time
specified by the Authority Having Jurisdiction
while the potable water system is empty. The
minimum period the potable water system is to
remain depressurized shall be determined on
a case-by-case basis, but in no case shall that
period be less than 1 hour.
The drain on the potable water system shall
be checked for flow during the test and at the
end test.
Where there is no flow detected in the fixtures
that would indicate a cross-connection, the
potable water system shall be repressurized.
Where shutting off the water is not practical for
residential, institutional, or industrial buildings,
the Authority Having Jurisdiction may authorize
testing procedures other than those described above.
The reclaimed (recycled) water piping to the
building and its premises shall be shut down
at the meter, and the reclaimed (recycled)
water riser shall be drained.
Potable water piping to the building and its
premises shall be shut down at the meter.
The potable water system shall be chlorinated
with 50 parts-per-million (ppm) chlorine for
24 hours.
The potable water system shall be flushed
after 24 hours, and a standard bacteriological
test shall be performed. Where test results are
acceptable, the potable water system shall be
permitted to be recharged.
Periodic visual
inspections of recycled water supply systems shall
be required by the recycled water supplier or
designee following the procedures in Section
1503.13.2.1. Pursuant to California Code of Regulations,
Title 22 Section 60316, annual visual
inspections shall be required for recycled water
supply systems that are within or a part of buildings.
The minimum water quality
for reclaimed (recycled) water shall meet the applicable
water quality requirements of California Code of Regulations,
Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 3 (commencing with
Section 60301) for disinfected tertiary recycled water and
the applicable reclaimed (recycled) water use. The
reclaimed (recycled) water supplier shall supply water in
accordance with permits issued by the State Water
Resources Control Board or Regional Water Quality
Control Board.
Recycled water
supply systems and components shall be inspected and
maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations
and/or as required by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction. The frequency of testing, inspection, and maintenance
shall be in accordance with Table 1503.15. The
required inspection and maintenance shall be the responsibility
of the property owner, unless otherwise required by
the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
TABLE 1503.15
MINIMUM RECLAIMED (RECYCLED) WATER SOURCE TESTING, INSPECTION, AND MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY
DESCRIPTION
MINIMUM FREQUENCY*
Inspect and clean filters and screens, and replace (where necessary).
Every 3 months.
Inspect pumps and verify operation.
After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter.
Inspect valves and verify operation.
After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter.
After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter.
Clear debris from and inspect storage tanks, locking devices, and verify operation.
After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter.
Inspect caution labels and marking.
After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter.
*Note: Frequency is as described in this table, or more frequently as required by manufacturer's instructions and/or the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the installation, construction, alteration, and repair of onsite treated nonpotable gray water systems intended to supply uses such as water closets, urinals, trap primers for
floor drains and floor sinks, above and belowground irrigation, and other uses approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Other approved nonpotable water sources including swimming pool backwash operations, air conditioner condensate, rainwater, cooling tower blow-down water, foundation drainage, steam system condensate, fluid cooler discharge water, food steamer discharge water, combination oven discharge water, industrial process water, and fire pump test water may be permitted to be collected for re-use by gray water systems, as approved for the intended
application.
No permit for an on-site treated nonpotable gray water system shall be issued
until complete plumbing plans, with data satisfactory to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, have been submitted and approved.
[BSC-CG, HCD 1] Prior to commencing the
issuance of permits for indoor gray water systems pursuant
to state requirements relating to graywater, a city, county,
city and county or other local agency shall seek consultation
with the local public health department to ensure that
local public health concerns are addressed in local standards
or ordinances, or in issuing permits. See California
Water Code Section 14877.3.
Potable or reclaimed (recycled) water is permitted to be
used as makeup water for a non-pressurized storage
tank provided the makeup water supply inlet is
protected by an air gap in accordance with this code.
A potable water supply may be connected temporarily
for initial testing of the on-site treated nonpotable gray
water system as provided in Section 1501.11.2.2.
On-site treated nonpotable gray water supply and distribution system materials shall comply with the requirements of this code for potable water supply and distribution systems, unless otherwise provided for in this
section.
Devices or equipment used to treat on-site treated nonpotable gray water in order to maintain the minimum water quality requirements determined by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be listed or labeled (third-party certified) by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body) or approved for the intended application. Devices or equipment used to treat on-site treated nonpotable gray water for use in water closet and urinal flushing, surface irrigation, and similar applications shall be listed or labeled to NSF 350 or approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
On-site treated nonpotable gray water systems shall be installed in accordance with the terms of its listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
On-site treated nonpotable gray water supplied to
toilets or urinals or for other uses in which it is sprayed
or exposed shall be disinfected. Acceptable disinfection
methods shall include chlorination, ultraviolet sterilization,
ozone, or other methods as approved by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction. The minimum water
quality for on-site treated nonpotable gray water
systems shall meet the applicable water quality requirements
for the intended applications as determined by
the public health Authority Having Jurisdiction. In the
absence of local water quality requirements for on-site
treated nonpotable gray water, the requirements of
NSF 350 shall apply.
On-site treated nonpotable gray water pipes shall be permitted to be run or laid in the same trench as potable waterpipes with a 12 inch (305 mm) minimum vertical and horizontal separation where both pipe materials are approved for use within a building. Where piping materials do not meet this requirement the minimum separation shall be increased to 60 inches (1524 mm). The potable water piping shall be installed at an elevation above the on-site treated nonpotable gray water piping.
A filter permitting the
passage of particulates no larger than 100 microns (100
µm) shall be provided for on-site treated nonpotable
gray water supplied to water closets, urinals, trap
primers, and drip irrigation system.
Where the intended use of
onsite treated nonpotable gray water requires disinfection
and/or other treatment, on-site treated nonpotable
gray water shall be disinfected as needed to ensure the
required water quality is obtained at the point of use.
Where chlorine is used for disinfection or treatment,
water shall be tested for residual chlorine in accordance
with ASTM D1253.
