Existing water supply is extended by water conservation and re-use. Because it is costly and difficult to develop new water supplies, water conservation is an essential method for ensuring quality water resources while reducing net demand. Water use efficiency benefits the environment, economy, and overall community. Water can be conserved through reduction programs (e.g. drought tolerant landscaping) and supplies augmented through the re-use of agricultural wastewater, rainwater capture, and domestic graywater. Through a series of wastewater treatments and filtration techniques, recycled water can be safely used for agricultural and domestic purposes. This section focuses on conserving water resources through increased efficiency and reuse.
Goal: WR-3
To promote efficient use of water resources through water conservation, protection, and restoration.
The County shall encourage the use of non-potable water, such as tertiary treated wastewater and household graywater, for industrial, agricultural, environmental, and landscaping needs consistent with appropriate regulations.
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The County shall require the use of water conservation techniques for discretionary development, as appropriate. Such techniques include low-flow plumbing fixtures in new construction that meet or exceed the California Plumbing Code, use of graywater or reclaimed water for landscaping, retention of stormwater runoff for direct use and/or groundwater recharge, and landscape water efficiency standards that meet or exceed the standards in the California Model Water Efficiency Landscape Ordinance.
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The County shall require discretionary development to incorporate low impact development design features and best management practices, including integration of stormwater capture facilities, consistent with County’s Stormwater Permit.
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The County shall strive for efficient use of potable water in County buildings and facilities through conservation measures, and technological advancements.
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