gw-whiteboardDid you know the average family of four uses 5,000-8,000 gallons of water annually in their washing machine alone? If 100 families installed a simple Laundry-to-Landscape graywater system, we could save 500,000-800,000 thousand gallons of water a year and put that precious water into our gardens instead of sending it the waste water treatment plant.

Daily Acts’ aim is to mobilize and support the installation of hundreds of graywater systems in Sonoma County.  Are you in???

  • Save water–depending on your water usage, your family will save thousands of gallons of water each year
  • Save money – we will teach you to use the water that you’ve already paid for, again!
  • Enhance Safety – your laundry will be safer for your family and the environment by using plant-friendly detergents and cleaners
  • Create Beauty – you will increase the beauty and bounty of your home gardens by irrigating with grey water
  • Build Community – build community by working together with neighbors and friends on your graywater installation!
  • Build a Movement – get educated, engaged, and trained to share the goodness with others.

Laundry-To-Landscape (L2L) System Overview

California plumbing code defines graywater (no difference if spelled greywater) as wastewater generated from bathroom sinks, showers, tubs and washing machines. Though all of these sources represent great opportunities to transform waste to resource, the Laundry-to-Landscape system is the simplest, most cost-effective, and does not require a building permit, making it an excellent place to start!

L2L - Inside
L2L- Outside

Frequently Asked Questions (about greywater)

No, the simple Laundry-to-Landscape system does not require a permit. For more complex systems like harnessing graywater from your shower and bath (often referred to as a “branched drain system”) you will require a relatively straightforward plumbing change permit from your building department (often ranging in cost from $50-$100).

No. The code does not permit storage of greywater from simple Laundry-to-Landscape systems. Storing graywater requires a permit and filtration, which adds cost and complexity to the system.

Yes! Here is a list of some local graywater-savvy landscape and plumbing contractors who can install your system so that you can be part of the graywater revolution!

Ecological Landscaper Referral List – 2023

No. In the State of California water from dishwashers and kitchen sinks is not considered to be graywater due to potential pathogens. While there has never been a documented case of illness in the United States linked to graywater, there is the potential for pathogens and water-borne diseases, so Daily Acts is committed to providing engaging, informative workshops to make sure that graywater systems are installed safely and properly.

Just about any woody perennial works! We recommend fruit trees, berry bushes, and perennial vegetables (like artichokes). You can also irrigate annual non-root vegetables like corn and beans as long as it does not come in contact with the edible part of the plant. Avoid acid-loving plants like blueberries, rhododendrons and ferns.

Other Great Sources of Info