Informal Public Comment Period: February 8 - March 8, 2023
The Department of Health (DOH) is seeking informal comments and suggested edits to the draft of a new chapter for on-site nonpotable water systems (ONWS), chapter 246-275 WAC.
Below you will find the links to register for Q&A sessions, the draft rule language as well as several video segments that provide an overview of each part of the draft to help you with your review.
Virtual Question and Answer Sessions
Have questions? Join us for one or more virtual question and answer sessions during the informal comment period.
Register for the session you would like to attend:
- Wednesday, February 15, 2023 – 2:00 PM
- Wednesday, February 22, 2023 – 2:30 PM
- Thursday, March 2, 2023 – 10:30 AM - Noon
Draft Rule Language
Draft Rule - Easy-to-Read Version (Word)
- Track your suggested edits, insert your comments, rename the file with your name, and save your file locally while you work.
- Email the renamed file with your tracked edits and comments to Jocelyn Jones by March 8, 2023.
ONWS Rule Overview Presentation Videos
- Introduction, Rulemaking at DOH and ONWS Rulemaking
- Part 1, General Provision
- Part 2, Planning, Review, Approval, and Permitting Process
- Part 3, Design, Log10 Reduction Targets and Credits, and Water Quality Limits
- Part 4, Operations
- Part 5, Monitoring, Reporting, Notification, and Recordkeeping
- Part 6, Compliance and Enforcement, and Part 9, Fees
Purpose of the ONWS Rulemaking
DOH is considering adopting a new rule chapter (Chapter 246-275 WAC, Onsite Nonpotable Water Systems) to implement RCW 90.46.290 On-site nonpotable water systems.
This amendment to existing statute requires the department of health to establish risk-based water quality standards for the onsite treatment of nonpotable alternative water sources for nonpotable end uses. In addition, it requires establishment of construction standards to achieve these water quality standards.
The CR-101 Preproposal Statement of Inquiry (PDF), announcing our intention to begin rulemaking, was filed on August 9, 2021 and recorded as WSR 21-17-040 (PDF).
Scope
The Onsite Nonpotable Water Systems (ONWS) rule would apply to multifamily residential, commercial, and mixed-use buildings, and district-scale projects, including a mix of multifamily residential, commercial, and mixed-use buildings. Alternative water sources include wastewater from all domestic fixtures, gray water, rooftop runoff, stormwater, foundation drainage, and AC condensate. Water treated to the established risk-based water quality standards may be used for end uses such as toilet and urinal supply water, clothes washing, irrigation, and dust suppression.
Public Involvement
DOH has engaged in collaborative rulemaking in consultation with impacted agencies and stakeholders, including the Washington State Department of Ecology and the state Building Code Council. Other interested parties include representation from the Washington State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters, local health jurisdictions, municipalities, and design consultants.
Model Code
A model code that was considered during this effort was developed by the National Blue Ribbon Commission for Onsite Nonpotable Water Systems. View the model regulation on the US Water Alliance's website.
Rule Advisory Committee (RAC)
DOH held RAC meetings in October 2021 and April 2022. Based on feedback from the RAC, we have drafted rule language we hope addresses this capacity issue.
October 12, 2021 - RAC Meeting Presentation Slides (PDF)
October 28, 2021 - RAC Meeting Presentation Slides (PDF)
April 21, 2022 - RAC Meeting Presentation Slides (PDF)
Stay Informed
Rulemaking notices will be sent to various general interest and environmental public health lists. To receive notices, sign up for the Onsite Nonpotable Water Systems Rulemaking email list.
Rulemaking Contacts
Steve Deem, subject matter expert, 360-878-7625
Mamdouh El-Aarag, subject matter expert, 509-329-2148
Jocelyn Jones, project co-manager, 360-236-3020