In a landmark move for water conservation in the American West, Colorado Governor Jared Polis has signed into law House Bill 24-362, which will allow and incentivize graywater use across the state. The new regulation is set to take effect on January 1, 2026,
The Colorado Law: A Game-Changer for Greywater
The newly signed law introduces several key changes to Colorado's graywater policies:
1. Opt-Out System: Perhaps the most significant change is the shift from an opt-in to an opt-out system for local governments. This means that graywater use will be allowed by default unless a local government explicitly chooses to prohibit it.
2. Widespread Adoption: By making graywater systems the default option, the law is expected to dramatically increase the number of households and businesses implementing these water-saving technologies.
3. Simplified Regulations: The law targets rules for in-home recycling of graywater from laundry, showers, baths, and bathroom sinks, potentially simplifying the regulatory landscape for homeowners and builders.
4. Local Flexibility: While promoting graywater use, the law still maintains a level of local control, allowing jurisdictions to opt-out if they choose.
How Colorado Compares to Other Western States
This law brings Colorado more in line with other Western states that have been at the forefront of graywater policy:
California: A leader in water conservation, California allows laundry-to-landscape systems without a permit, saving an average of 40,000 gallons per household annually.
Arizona: Known for its progressive graywater regulations, Arizona permits extensive use of graywater for landscape irrigation.
Economic Incentives: While not directly addressed in the Colorado law, some localities like Grand Junction are offering rebates to cover permitting fees and installation costs, similar to incentive programs in California.
The Bigger Picture: Water Conservation in the West
Colorado's move towards more progressive graywater policies is part of a larger trend across the Western United States. As water scarcity becomes an increasingly pressing issue, states are reevaluating their approach to water management:
Arizona is revising its administrative code for direct potable reuse.
California is developing uniform water recycling criteria for direct potable reuse.
New Mexico has proposed new requirements for water reuse, including produced water.
The Path to Implementation
While the law doesn't take effect until 2026, this gives local jurisdictions, builders, and homeowners time to prepare:
Local governments have until January 1, 2026, to decide whether to opt out of allowing graywater use.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will need to update Regulation 86, which governs graywater control.
The construction industry will have time to adapt designs and practices to incorporate graywater systems more readily.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the potential benefits, the implementation of widespread graywater use faces some challenges:
Cost: Installing graywater systems, especially in existing homes, can be expensive.
Public Perception: There may be a need for education to address concerns about using recycled water.
Regulatory Complexity: Ensuring compliance with water rights and public health regulations will be crucial.
However, the opportunities are significant:
Water Savings: Estimates suggest that graywater reuse could save 20-30% of household water use.
Innovation: The law could spur technological advancements in water treatment and reuse systems.
Economic Benefits: New jobs could be created in installation, maintenance, and manufacturing of graywater systems.
Looking Ahead
As Colorado prepares for this significant change, it joins states like California and Arizona in taking bold steps to address water scarcity. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar water challenges.
The signing of this bill into law represents more than just a policy change; it's a shift in how we think about and value water in an increasingly arid climate. As we move towards 2026, all eyes will be on Colorado as it embarks on this graywater revolution, potentially setting a new standard for water conservation in the American West.