Boulder City Council Bans Gray Water Use for Two Years

UPDATE: The Boulder City Council has just enacted a two-year ban on the use of gray water through the city’s water utility. This urgent decision aims to align with a new state law that will take effect next year, permitting gray water systems in new construction but allowing municipalities to opt out.

Gray water, which is recycled water from sinks, showers, and appliances, can be repurposed for irrigation, making it an essential tool for water conservation. However, city officials determined that a temporary halt is necessary to comply with state regulations. The ban places Boulder in a complex position as it balances conservation efforts against legal requirements.

City staffers have indicated that establishing a comprehensive gray water system within Boulder will be a lengthy process. It will require the development of new regulations, a permitting process, and inspections to prevent any risk of contamination in the drinking water supply. This includes tasks like implementing backflow prevention surveys and maintaining an approved systems database.

A typical gray water system, such as a laundry-to-landscape setup, connects washing machines to irrigation systems, facilitating water reuse. However, the memo from city officials emphasizes that implementing such systems will take a minimum of two years and necessitate additional staffing.

The city’s decision to ban gray water use has sparked significant discussion. Some conservation advocates argue that now is the time to embrace gray water systems as a vital part of sustainability efforts. In a memo, Planning Board Chair Mark McIntyre criticized the ordinance as overly broad, stating it “criminalizes behavior that actually helps us reach our sustainability goals.” He urged for more nuanced discussions and stakeholder engagement before moving forward.

While a CU Boulder project demonstrated the potential of gray water reuse from the Williams Village dormitory between 2013-2023, the results were not as impactful as anticipated, further complicating the conversation around gray water systems in Boulder.

Residents and stakeholders are now left wondering how this decision will affect future water conservation efforts in the city. The council’s approach to engaging the public on this issue has already faced scrutiny, with many calling for improved outreach and clarity in the proposed regulations.

What’s Next: As the city prepares to implement this ban, stakeholders and residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming public engagement sessions. The council will need to navigate these discussions carefully to ensure that any future gray water initiatives align with both state laws and community sustainability goals.

This developing story is crucial for Boulder residents, as the implications of this ban could significantly impact water conservation strategies and community engagement in the months to come. Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent matter.