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APPENDIX 3 
State Regulations (US), 
Compiled in 1999: 
Composting Toilets, Graywater Systems, and Constructed 
Wetlands
AL | AK | AZ | AR | CA | CO | CT | DE | FL | GA | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS | KY | LA | ME | MA | MD | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NC | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | ND | OH | OK | OR | PA | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VA | WA | WV | WI | WY | CANADA | OTHER INFO
Notes: 1. Although many states do not have formal design standards or regulations concerning composting toilets, graywater systems, and/or constructed wetlands as they pertain to on-site sewage management for residences, many of the rules and regulations do contain a section allowing �experimental� and/or �alternative� systems which may be permitted by individual application to the regulating agency. Individuals interested in these systems should check with their state agency for more information.
2. When the phrase �no existing regulations,� is used it is not meant to imply that those systems may be used without prior approval from the local or state permitting agency. In all cases, check with your local or state permitting agency to see what their permitting requirements are.
Alabama: Alabama Department of Public Health, Division of Community 
Environmental Protection, RSA Tower, Suite 1250, PO Box 303017, Montgomery, AL 
36130-3017; Ph. (334) 206-5373; Contact: John Paul O�Driscoll.
REGULATION(S): 
Chapter 420-3-1: Onsite Sewage Disposal and Subdivision-Onsite Sewage Systems, 
Water Supplies and Solid Waste Management (23 December 1998). Composting 
Toilets: As of December 23, 1998, no regulations exist for composting toilets. 
Composting toilets are not expressly forbidden, but the homeowner does have to 
show adequate sewage disposal for graywater. Alabama is working on a set of new 
regulations, as the current rules have been overcome by time, and are not 
adequate for many of the situations that the regulated community faces today. 
The main shortcoming of the current regulations is that they do not adequately 
address the large systems and alternative technologies that are present 
today.1 In 
the proposed regulations, composting toilets are discussed in Chapter 
420-3-1-.59 under Non-Waterborne Systems: Pit Privies, Portable, Composting, and 
Incinerating Toilets. A composting toilet is defined as a dry closet which 
combines toilet and urinal waste with optional food waste in an aerobic vented 
environment. Decomposition of the waste is accomplished by the dehydration and 
digestion of organic matter, yielding a composted residue which is removed for 
sanitary disposal.2 
Conditions which justify the use of non-waterborne systems include when soil and 
site conditions are unsuitable for on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems 
(OSTDS) or when water under pressure is not available. Composting toilets must 
meet the standards of the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), Canadian 
Standards Association (CSA), Underwriter�s Laboratory, or Warnock Hershey. Other 
requirements call for continuous ventilation of the components for the storage 
or treatment of materials. Disposal of the compost must be in accordance with 
the guidance of EPA Part 503. Disposal of any liquids from the system must be to 
a sanitary sewer or to an approved OSTDS.
GRAYWATER: Ch. 420-3-1-.03. 
Defined, graywater is that portion of sewage generated by a water-using fixture 
or appliance, excluding the toilet and possibly the garbage disposal.3 
References to graywater can be found under 402-3-1-.27 Effluent from Clothes 
Washing Machine and Residential Spa. Water from these systems can circumvent a 
septic tank and go into a separate effluent disposal field (EDF). In the current 
regulations, in the absence of water under pressure, graywater shall be disposed 
of by an effluent distribution line of 50 linear feet per dwelling. Graywater is 
also covered under the proposed draft of Ch. 420-3-1-.59. No new recommendations 
besides the EDF system are proposed. 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: A constructed 
wetland is defined in the proposed rules as a human-made, engineered, marsh-like 
area which is designed, constructed, and operated to treat wastewater by 
attempting to optimize physical, chemical, and biological processes of natural 
ecosystems.4 
However, there are no existing regulations. 
Alaska: Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, Domestic 
Wastewater Program, 410 West Willoughby Avenue, Suite 105, Juneau, AK 99801; Ph. 
(907) 465-5324; Fax (907) 465-5362; http://www.state.ak.us/dec. 
REGULATION(S): 18 AAC 72 Wastewater Disposal (1 April 1999). 
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS: No existing regulations. 
GRAYWATER: 18 AAC 72.990. Graywater means 
wastewater a) from a laundry, kitchen, sink, shower, bath, or other domestic 
sources; and wastewater b) that does not contain excrement, urine, or combined 
stormwater. No existing regulations.
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing 
regulations. 
Arizona: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, 
3033 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012-2809; Toll-free Ph. (800) 234-5677; 
Ph. (602) 207-4335; Fax (602) 207-4872; Contact: Nabil Anouti at (602) 207-4723; 
http://www.sosaz.com/public_services/Title_18/18-09.htm
REGULATION(S): 
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Bulletin No. 12, Minimum 
Requirements for the Design and Installation of Septic Tank Systems and 
Alternative On-site Disposal Systems (June 1989); Arizona Administrative Code 
Title 18, Ch. 9, Article 7: Regulations for the Reuse of Wastewater (30 
September 1998); Arizona Guidance Manual for Constructed Wetlands for Water 
Quality Improvement (August 1996).
COMPOSTING TOILETS: No regulations. 
Bulletin 12 suggests the use of composting toilets where conditions are such as 
to make it impossible or impractical to construct either a septic tank disposal 
or an earth-pit privy.5 
Provided they can be maintained and operated without endangering the public 
health or creating a nuisance, composting toilets may be permitted.6
GRAYWATER: 
Defined under R18-9-701. Graywater means wastewater that originates from clothes 
washers, dishwashers, bathtubs, showers and sinks, except kitchen sinks and 
toilets. Under R18-9-703, section C6, graywater from single and multi-family 
residences may be used for surface irrigation. The design and construction of 
the system must be approved by the Department. Irrigation sites must be designed 
to contain a 10-year, 24-hour (i.e., maximum possible) rainfall event and the 
graywater must fall under the allowable limits of less than 25 colony forming 
units per 100 milliliters (CFU/ml) fecal coliform and less than 2.0 mg/l 
chlorine for surface irrigation. Under section 7, formation of a wetlands marsh 
is allowable reuse of reclaimed wastewater.7 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: Bulletin 12 describes onsite alternatives to septic 
tank and drainfield disposal systems. The first general requirement of Bulletin 
No. 12 is that alternative onsite disposal systems are intended and will be 
approved for individual lots only where conventional septic tank systems are not 
suitable and cannot be approved.8 
Use of a septic tank with a minimum of two compartments for preliminary solids 
removal is necessary prior to a constructed wetland. Constructed subsurface flow 
wetlands are viewed as a beneficial augmenting step in the septic tank system, 
providing additional treatment between the septic tank and the soil absorption 
system.9 
The bulletin points out several benefits of segregating blackwater and 
graywater: 1) conservation of water resources; 2) potential of recycling 
valuable nutrients to the soil; 3) reuse potential of recycled graywater; and 4) 
prolonged life of the septic tank soil absorption system.10 
However, until further field data becomes available and is evaluated, graywater 
treatment and disposal systems shall be designed similarly for typical 
residential wastewater septic tank soil absorption systems. Under this scenario, 
it may be possible to reduce the septic tank system capacities, sometimes by 
one-third.11 
Arkansas: Arkansas Department of Health, Sanitary 
Division, State Health Building, 4815 West Markham, Little Rock, AR 72201; Ph. 
(501) 661-2171. 
REGULATION(S): Alternate Systems Manual published by 
Environmental Program Services, Division of Environmental Health Protection 
(April 1993). According to the Alternate Systems Manual, the Arkansas Department 
of Health encourages studies and submission of plans for alternative methods of 
treating and disposing of wastes generated by individual residences.12 
However, if site and soil conditions indicate that a standard septic tank and 
soil absorption system is feasible, no alternative or experimental system will 
be considered.13 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: are allowed as long as they are NSF approved. In fact, 
composting toilets are currently being used in state park systems.14 
A composting toilet is defined as a device specifically designed to retain and 
process body waste, and, in some cases, household garbage, by biological 
degradation. The process may be thermophilic or mesophilic, depending on the 
design of the toilet.15 
Some manufacturers claim the stabilized compost is safe and may be used as a 
soil additive in gardens. The actual health risks associated with this composted 
material have not been adequately assessed. The stabilized compost from a 
composting toilet must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary 
landfill. All composting devices must be evaluated by an ANSI approved 
laboratory under NSF Standard 41.16 
Approved composting toilets for the state of Arkansas include Clivus Multrum 
models 08, 08-0A, 08-A,202 and 205; and Sun-Mar Biological Composting Toilet and 
Sun-Mar-XL. Each application requesting approval of a composting toilet must 
also provide for the disposal of the home�s graywater.17
GRAYWATER: 
Essentially, graywater is treated the same as blackwater. The preferred method 
of handling graywater is through a conventional septic tank and absorption 
field. A 35% reduction in the absorption field size will be granted. Other 
methods of treating and/or disposing of graywater will be reviewed on a case by 
case basis.18 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS (ROCK PLANT FILTERS): Rock plant filters (RPFs) provide 
secondary treatment to septic tank effluent. RPFs act as artificial marshes that 
rely on microorganisms and the roots of aquatic plants to achieve treatment. RPF 
systems may be considered on sites where low soil permeability prohibits use of 
a conventional septic system. Discharge from an RPF must be retained on site, 
which requires a lot size of at least three acres. This requirement may be 
waived on repairs to existing, failed septic systems. All off-site discharges 
must be undergo chlorination prior to discharge.19 
California: California Department of Water Resources, 
Water Conservation Office, 1020 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Ph. (916) 
327-1655; Contact: Ed Craddock. For Composting Toilets and Constructed Wetlands 
Regulations, Contact: California Department of Health Services, 724 P Street, 
Room 1350, Sacramento, CA 95814; Ph. (916) 654 0584; Fax (916) 657-2996. 
REGULATION(S): Appendix G. Graywater Systems. Uniform Plumbing Code, Title 
24, Part 5, California Administrative Code (18 March 1997). 
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS: No existing regulations, check with your local or county agency. 
GRAYWATER: G-1. General. (b) The type of system shall be determined on the basis 
of location, soil type, and ground water level and shall be designed to accept 
all graywater connected to the system from the building. The system shall 
discharge into subsurface irrigation fields and may include surge tanks and 
appurtenances, as required by the Administrative Authority. (d) No permit for 
any graywater system shall be issued until a plot plan with appropriate data 
satisfactory to the Administrative Authority has been submitted and approved. 
When there is insufficient lot area or inappropriate soil conditions for 
adequate absorption of the graywater, as determined by the Administrative 
Authority, no graywater system shall be permitted. G2. Graywater is untreated 
wastewater which has not come into contact with toilet waste. Graywater includes 
used water from bathtubs, showers, bathroom wash basins, clothes washing 
machines and laundry tubs or an equivalent discharge as approved by the 
Administrative Authority. It does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks, 
photo lab sinks, dishwashers, or laundry water from soiled diapers. Surfacing of 
graywater means the ponding, running off, or other release of graywater from the 
land surface. G13 Health and Safety. (a) Graywater may contain fecal matter as a 
result of bathing and/or washing of diapers and undergarments. Water containing 
fecal matter, if swallowed, can cause illness in a susceptible person. (b) 
Graywater shall not include laundry water from soiled diapers. (c) Graywater 
shall not be applied above the land surface or allowed to surface and shall not 
be discharged directly into or reach any storm sewer system or any water of the 
United States. (d) Graywater shall not be contacted by humans, except as 
required to maintain the graywater treatment and distribution system. (e) 
Graywater shall not be used for vegetable gardens.20 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Colorado: Colorado Department of Public Health and 
Environment, Water Quality Control Division, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, 
Denver, CO 80246-1530; Ph. (303) 692-3500. 
REGULATION(S): Guidelines on 
Individual Sewage Disposal Systems, Chapter 25, Article 10 (1994). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Composting toilets, according to the Colorado Department 
of Health, are defined as unit(s) which consist of a toilet seat and cover over 
a riser which connects to a compartment or a vault that contains or will receive 
composting materials sufficient to reduce waste by aerobic decomposition.21 
Composting toilets receive deposits of feces, urine, and readily decomposable 
household garbage that are not diluted with water or other fluids.22 
These deposits are retained in a compartment in which aerobic composting will 
occur. The compartment may be located within a dwelling or building, provided 
that the unit complies with the applicable requirements of these guidelines and 
provided the installation will not result in conditions considered to be a 
health hazard as determined by the local health department. The effective volume 
of the receptacle must be sufficient to accommodate the number of persons 
served. When the receptacle is filled to 75% capacity, residue from the unit 
shall be disposed of by acceptable solid waste practices. Composting toilets 
must be NSF approved.23
GRAYWATER: 
Graywater systems collect, treat, and dispose of liquid wastes from sinks, 
lavatories, tubs, showers, and laundry or other approved plumbing fixtures, 
excluding toilet fixtures.24 
Graywater systems shall meet at least all minimum design and construction 
standards for septic tank systems based on the amount and character of wastes 
for the fixtures and the number of persons served.25 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: are systems which utilize various wetland plants to 
provide secondary treatment of wastewater through biological, physical, and 
chemical processes.26 
Constructed wetland systems must be designed by a registered professional 
engineer. Designs have to be site-specific and must include estimates of 
effluent quality at the inlet and outlet. Periodic sampling is required at the 
owner�s expense.27 
Connecticut: Connecticut Department of Public Health, 
410 Capitol Avenue, MS #51 SEW, PO Box 340308, Hartford, CT 06134-0308; Ph. 
(860) 509-7296; http://www.dep.state.ct.us/dph. 
REGULATION(S): Connecticut 
Public Health Code: Regulations and Technical Standards for Subsurface Sewage 
Disposal Systems, Section 19-13-B100 (Conversions, Changes in Use, Additions) 
(25 October 1976); Section 19-13-B103 (Discharges 5,000 Gallons Per Day or Less) 
(16 August 1982); and Technical Standards (Pursuant to Section 19-13-B103) (1 
January 1997). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: (b)(1) The local director of health may 
approve the use of a large capacity composting toilet or a heat-assisted 
composting toilet for replacing an existing privy or a failing subsurface sewage 
disposal system, or for any single-family residential building where application 
is made by the owner and occupant, and the lot on which the building will be 
located is tested by the local director of health and found suitable for a 
subsurface sewage disposal system meeting all the requirements of Section 
19-13-B103d of these regulations. (2) All wastes removed from composting toilets 
shall be disposed of by burial or other methods approved by the local director 
of health.28 
19-13-B103f XI. Non-Discharging Sewage Disposal Systems A. Large capacity 
composting toilets shall have separate receiving, composting, and storage 
compartments, arranged so that the contents are moved from one compartment to 
another without spillage or escape of odors within the dwelling. No large 
capacity composting toilets shall have an interior volume of less than 64 cubic 
feet. All toilet waste shall be deposited in the receiving chamber, which shall 
be furnished with a tight self-closing toilet lid. Food waste or other materials 
necessary to the composting action shall be deposited in the composting 
compartment through a separate opening with a tight fitting lid. The final 
composting material shall be removed from the storage compartment through a 
cleanout opening fitted with a tight door or lid. The cleanout shall not be 
located in a food storage or preparation area. The receiving and composting 
compartments shall be connected to the outside atmosphere by a screened vent. 
The vent shall be a minimum of six inches in diameter and shall extend at least 
20 feet above the openings in the receiving and composting compartments, unless 
mechanical ventilation is provided. Air inlets shall be connected to the storage 
compartment only, and shall be screened. B. Heat assigned composting toilets 
shall have a single compartment furnished with a tight, self-closing toilet lid. 
The compartment shall be connected to the outside atmosphere by a screened vent. 
There shall be a mechanical ventilation fan arranged to control the humidity in 
the compartment and provide positive venting of odors to the outside atmosphere 
at all times. A heating unit shall be provided to maintain temperature in the 
optimum range for composting.29 
GRAYWATER: (n) Graywater means domestic sewage containing no fecal material 
or toilet wastes. Sec. 19-13-B103d. Minimum Requirements. (f) Gray Water 
Systems. Disposal systems for sinks, tubs, showers, laundries, and other 
graywater from residential buildings, where no water flush toilet fixtures are 
connected, shall be constructed with a septic tank and leaching system at least 
one-half the capacity specified for the required residential sewage disposal 
system.30 
Sec. 19-13-B103f. Non-discharging Sewage Disposal Systems (a) All 
non-discharging sewage disposal systems shall be designed, installed, and 
operated in accordance with the Technical Standards and the requirements of this 
section, unless an exception is granted by the Commissioner upon a determination 
that system shall provide for the proper and complete disposal and treatment of 
toilet wastes or graywater.31 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Delaware: Department of Natural Resources and 
Environmental Control, Division of Water Resources, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 
19901; Ph. (302) 739-4761. 
REGULATION(S): Regulations Governing the Design, 
Installation and Operation of On-Site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems 
(4 January 1984). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No 
existing regulations. However, a substantial portion of Delaware�s population 
lives where centralized water supply or wastewater treatment services are 
limited. The Department�s mission is to aid and assist the public in the 
installation of on-site sewage disposal systems, where possible, by utilizing 
the best information, techniques, and soil evaluations for the most suitable 
system that site and soil conditions permit. In the past, inadequately renovated 
wastewater has contaminated Delaware�s groundwater and presented a threat to the 
public health, safety, and welfare. Corrective measures required the replacement 
of water supply and wastewater systems at a very high cost which was sometimes 
borne by the general public. In developing these Regulations, the Department 
operated under the philosophy that where soil and site conditions permit, the 
least complex, easy to maintain, and most economical system should be used. The 
Department�s policy is to encourage development of systems, processes, and 
techniques which may benefit significant numbers of people in Delaware.32 
Florida: Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Water 
and On-Site Sewage Programs, 2020 Capital Circle SE, BIN #A08, Tallahassee, FL 
32399-1713; Ph. (850) 488-4070; FAX (850) 922-6969; http://www.doh.state.fl.us/; http://www.dep.state.fl.us/ogc/documents/rules/rulelistpa.htm#wastewater; 
Contact: David Hammonds; Email: [email protected]
REGULATION(S): 
381.0065 Florida Statutes Regulations: Chapter 64E-6, Florida Administrative 
Code, Standards for Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (3 March 1998). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Although they are not widely used, they are allowed, 
especially in floodprone areas. Florida encourages the use of composting 
toilets.33 
64E-6.009 Alternative Systems. Upon approval by the DOH county health 
department, alternative systems may, at the applicant�s discretion, be used in 
circumstances where standard subsurface systems are not suitable or where 
alternative systems are more feasible. Under this section, composting toilets 
may be approved for use if found in compliance with NSF Standard 41. Graywater 
and any other liquid and solid waste must be properly collected and disposed of 
in accordance with Chapter 64E.34 
64E-6.010 Disposal of Sewage. No receptacle associated with an onsite sewage 
treatment and disposal system shall be cleaned or have its contents removed 
until the service person has obtained an annual written permit (form DH4013) 
from the DOH county health department in the county in which the service company 
is located.35 
GRAYWATER: as defined under Title XXIX, Public Health Chapter 381.0065 
Onsite Sewage treatment and disposal systems, means that part of domestic sewage 
that is not blackwater, including the waste from the bath, lavatory, laundry, 
and sink, except kitchen sink waste.36 
Graywater systems are described in Rule 64E-6.013(4).37 
When a separate system is installed to dispose of graywater, the retention tank 
for such systems shall meet certain design standards as specified in Rule 
64E-6.008(3): The minimum effective capacity of the graywater retention tank 
shall be 250 gallons, with such system receiving not more than 75 gallons of 
flow per day. Where separate graywater and blackwater systems are used, the size 
of the blackwater system can be reduced by not more than 25%. 10D-6.046 Location 
and Installation. (7) Onsite graywater tank and drainfield systems may, at the 
homeowner�s discretion, be utilized in conjunction with an onsite blackwater 
system where a sewerage system is not available for blackwater disposal.38 
10D-6.048 System Size Determination (4) A separate laundry waste tank and 
drainfield system may be utilized for residences and may be required by the 
county public health unit where building codes allow for separation of discharge 
pipes of the residence to separate stubouts and where lot sizes and setback 
allow system construction. (a) The minimum laundry waste trench drainfield 
absorption area for slightly limited soil shall be 75 square feet for a one or 
two bedroom residence with an additional 25 square feet for each additional 
bedroom. 10D-6.055 (k) All graywater tanks distributed by the state shall be 
approved for use by the department prior to being installed. Such approval shall 
be obtained only after the manufacturer of a specific model has submitted 
engineering designs of the tank. (4) Graywater retention tanks - when a separate 
system is installed to dispose of graywater, the retention tank for such system 
shall meet the following minimum design standards: a) the minimum effective 
capacity shall be as specified in Rule 10D-6.048(3). Liquid depth shall be at 
least 30 inches; and b) retention tanks shall be baffled and vented as specified 
in the septic tank construction standards found elsewhere in the section 
provided that an inlet tee, ell, or baffle shall be provided for graywater 
tanks.39
CONSTRUCTED 
WETLANDS: No existing regulations.40 
Georgia: Department of Human Resources, Division of 
Public Health, Environmental Health Section, 5th Floor-Annex, 2 Peachtree Street 
NW, Atlanta, GA 30303-3186; Ph. (404) 657-2700 or 6538; FAX (404) 657-6533; http://www.ganet.org/dnr/environ/rules; 
Contact: Warren Abrahams, Program Consultant.
REGULATION(S): Rules of 
Department of Human Resources, Public Health, Chapter 290-5-26: Onsite Sewage 
Disposal Management Systems (20 February 1998). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Where 
the availability of land for installation of conventional septic tank systems is 
limited so as to allow for only a septic tank and a reduced size absorption 
system, composting toilets may be considered. Laundry, bath, and kitchen wastes 
must be disposed of in a conventional septic tank system, although the size of 
the absorption field may be reduced by 35% from that of a conventional system, 
provided water conservation devices are utilized. Composted wastes from the 
treatment unit shall be removed as per the manufacturer�s recommendations and 
the residue shall be buried by covering with at least six inches of soil. Wastes 
should not be used as fertilizer for root or leaf crops which may be eaten raw. 
Composting toilets must be certified by the NSF as meeting the current standard 
or certified by the manufacturer as meeting a nationally recognized standard for 
such purpose.41 
GRAYWATER: Graywater means wastewater generated by water-using fixtures and 
appliances, excluding water closets, urinals, bidets, kitchen sinks, and garbage 
disposals. Chapter 290-5-59, Special Onsite Sewage Management Systems, defines 
sewage as human excreta, all water-carried wastes, and/or liquid household waste 
including graywater from residences or similar wastes or by-products from 
commercial and industrial establishments.42 
Where a separate graywater system is to be used, the minimum effective capacity 
of the graywater retention tank shall be 500 gallons. The minimum absorption 
area for graywater or blackwater absorption systems serving residential 
properties shall be based on the number of bedrooms and the percolation rate. 
The blackwater portion of the total daily sewage flow shall be 35%; the 
graywater portion shall be 65%.43
CONSTRUCTED 
WETLANDS: No existing regulations. Although no regulations are formally in 
place, an article in the Georgia Environmentalist gives design information and 
recommendations for both free water surface (FWS) and subsurface flow (SSF) 
constructed wetlands.44 
Hawaii: Department Of Health, Wastewater Branch, 
Environmental Management Division, 919 Ala Moana Boulevard, Suite 309, Honolulu, 
HI 96814; Ph. (808) 586-4294. 
REGULATION(S): Hawaii Administrative Rules, 
Chapter 11-62 (30 August 1991). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: 11-62-03 Definitions. 
�Compost toilet� means a non-flush, waterless toilet that employs an aerobic 
composting process to treat toilet wastes.45 
Ch. 11-62-35 states that specific design requirements for composting (and other) 
toilets shall be reviewed and approved by the director on a case-by-case 
basis.46 
Products, if sold in Hawaii, are to be approved by the director, based on 
appropriate testing procedures and standards as set forth by the National 
Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Testing Laboratory.47 
The following toilets are approved the NSF Standard 041: Biolet XL; Clivus 
Multrum Model M-1, M-2, M-12, M-15, M-18, M-22, M-25, M-28, M-32, M-35, M54ADA; 
Ecotech Carousel; and Sun Mar Excel. 
GRAYWATER: means liquid waste from a 
dwelling or other establishment produced by bathing, washdown, minor laundry, 
and minor culinary operations, and specifically excluding toilet waste.48 
Chapter 11-62-31.1 states that individual wastewater systems may be used as a 
temporary on-site means of wastewater disposal in lieu of wastewater treatment 
works in residential developments when there is 10,000 square feet or more of 
land area for each individual wastewater system.49 
Section G covers graywater systems and their respective design 
characteristics.50 
Graywater conveyance systems include: sand filters, absorption trenches and 
beds, mounds or seepage pits, or when disinfected in accordance with 11-62-26(b) 
(which governs total coliform levels), used for irrigation.51 
11-62-31.1 gives the general requirements for proposed individual wastewater 
systems. (g) A graywater system shall be designed in accordance with the 
following criteria: (1) design of graywater systems for dwelling units shall be 
based on a minimum graywater flow of 150 gallons per day per bedroom; and (2) 
graywater tanks, when required, shall be sized with no less than a 600 gallon 
capacity and shall conform to the requirements of section 11-62-33-1(a).52
CONSTRUCTED 
WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Idaho: Division of Environmental Quality, 1410 North 
Hilton, Boise, ID 83706-1255; Ph. (208) 373-0502. Contact: Barry Burnell, 
Watershed Protection Supervisor. 
REGULATION(S): IDAPA 16, Title 01, Chapter 
03, Rules for Individual/Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (7 May 1993) and the 
Technical Guidance Manual (TGM) for Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal 
Systems. The TGM can be viewed at http://www.state.id.us/phd1/tgm/tgm_toc.htm 
Section 10 of the Idaho code covers Alternative Systems. If a standard system as 
described in the rules cannot be installed on a parcel of land, an alternative 
system may be permitted if that system is in accordance with the recommendations 
of the Technical Guidance Committee and is approved by the Director.53
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS: are defined as toilets within the dwelling that store and treat 
non-water carried human urine and feces and small amounts of household garbage 
by bacterial decomposition. The resultant product is compost.54 
Composting toilets are allowed in residences that also have water under 
pressure, with the understanding that a public sewer or another acceptable 
method of on-site disposal is available. Permission must be obtained from the 
Idaho Health Department, as current plumbing code prohibits the use of 
composting toilets without their permission.55 
GRAYWATER: The Technical Guidance Manual contains a draft for graywater 
system guidelines and design requirements, but current Idaho rules permit 
graywater systems only as experimental systems.56 
The draft proposal describes graywater as untreated household wastewater that 
has not come into contact with toilet waste. Graywater includes used water from 
bathtubs, showers, bathroom wash basins, and water from clothes washing machines 
and laundry tubs. It shall not include wastewater from kitchen sinks, 
dishwashers, or laundry water from soiled diapers. A graywater system consists 
of a separate plumbing system from the blackwaste and kitchen plumbing, a surge 
tank to temporarily hold large drain flows, a filter to remove particles that 
could clog the irrigation system, a pump to move the graywater from the surge 
tank to the irrigation field, and an irrigation system to distribute the 
graywater. Graywater may not be used to irrigate vegetable gardens. Graywater 
systems may only be permitted for individual dwellings. The capacity of the 
septic tank and size of the blackwaste drainfield and replacement area shall not 
be reduced by the existence or proposed installation of a graywater system 
servicing the dwelling. Graywater shall not be applied on the land surface or be 
allowed to reach the land surface.57 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: Constructed wetlands are only permitted under 
experimental systems. All experimental systems require a variance. Experimental 
systems also are required to be designed by a Idaho licensed professional 
engineer.58 
Illinois: Illinois Department of Public Health, 
Division of Environmental Health, 525-535 West Jefferson Street, Springfield, IL 
62761-0001; Ph. (217) 782-5830; Contact: Elaine Beard or Doug Ebelherr. 
REGULATION(S): Title 77: Public Health, Chapter I: Department of Public 
Health, Subchapter r: Water and Sewage, Part 905: Private Sewage Disposal Code, 
Section 905.30, Approved Private Sewage Disposal Systems (15 March 
1996).
COMPOSTING TOILETS: are approved for private sewage disposal of human 
wastes.59 
Compost toilets shall be designed in accordance with the manufacturer�s 
recommendation to serve the anticipated number of persons. The owner of a 
compost toilet shall maintain the toilet and dispose of the contents in 
accordance with Section 905.170, which lists several methods of disposal: 1) 
discharge to a municipal sanitary sewer system; 2) discharge to sludge lagoons 
or sludge drying beds; 3) discharge to an incinerator device; or 4) discharge to 
a sanitary landfill.60 
Compost toilets shall comply with the requirement of the NSF Standard 41 and 
shall bear the NSF Seal.61 
GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations (governed under 
experimental systems). 
Indiana: Indiana Department of Environmental 
Management, 100 North Senate Avenue, PO Box 6015, Indianapolis, IN 46206-6015; 
Ph. (317) 233-7179 or (317) 233-7188; Contact: Alan Dunn or Tim Decker; Email: 
[email protected].
REGULATION(S): 
Regulations, if they existed, would most likely be found under 401 Indiana 
Administrative Code 6-8.1.
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER: No existing 
regulations. 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: Constructed wetlands are approved only 
for experimental use in residential situations. Indiana outlines some basic 
design criteria for subsurface constructed wetlands, as follows: 1) The wetland 
is usually designed for five to seven days retention time; 2) Each wetland has 
one cell for residential projects, with each cell having a length to width ratio 
of no greater than 2:1; 3) The depth of gravel in the wetland is no greater than 
24 inches; 4) There are three different gravel sizes in the wetland. The inlet 
and outlet ends of the wetland have coarse gravel in the range of 1 1/2 to 3 
inches in size. The area between the ends has gravel in the range of 1/2 to 1 
inch in size. The surface layer of gravel over the entire wetland is usually six 
inches in depth with a range of 3/8 to 1/2 inch size (pea gravel). All gravels 
are screened and washed to remove fines; 5) The water level in the wetland is 
set at a depth of two to three inches below the surface of the gravel by the 
outlet adjustable sump pipe. The outlet sump pipe is orificed with a 1 1/2 inch 
hole to regulate the flow from the wetland after a six inch rainfall event to 
spread the rainfall accumulation over a 24-hour period; 6) The wetlands are 
lined with at least a 20 mil liner for residential projects; 7) The wetland is 
tested for leaks over a 24-hour period with at least six inch depth of water 
above the inlet and outlet distribution and collection pipe; 8) The inlet 
distribution and outlet collection pipes for each cell of the wetland are placed 
at the bottom of the wetland gravel; 9) Some commonly used wetland plants are 
cattails (Typha sp.) and bulrushes (Scirpus sp.) along with other appropriate 
species. The shallower rooted plants are located near the inlet because of the 
higher influent temperatures and high nutrient levels, with deeper rooted plants 
located toward the end of the wetland; and 10) There is required monitoring at 
the inlet and outlet ends of the wetland for three to five years. Absorption 
field criteria: 1) Selection and sizing of the absorption field is always based 
upon the peak daily wastewater load and the on-site soil survey report that is 
done by an ARCPAC certified soil scientist, in the area of the absorption field; 
2) There is an allowable reduction in the size of the absorption field 
associated with a subsurface constructed wetland based on the soil loading rate. 
For soil loading rates equal to or greater than 0.5 gallons per day (GPD) per 
square foot, but less than or equal to 1.2 GPD per square foot, the allowable 
reduction in field size is 50%. For soil loading rates of less than 0.5 GPD per 
square foot but greater than or equal to 0.25 GPD per square foot, the allowable 
reduction in the field is 33%; 3) There must be a 50 to 100% set aside area for 
the proposed absorption field associated with the subsurface constructed wetland 
because this combination is still considered experimental when there is an 
allowable absorption field size reduction; and 4) The septic tanks are sized for 
either a 36 or 48 hour detention time.62 
Iowa: Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Wallace 
State Office Building, 502 East 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-0034; Ph. (515) 
281-7814; Contact: Brent Parker. 
REGULATION(S): Chapter 69: On-Site 
Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems 567-69.11(455B). 
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS, GRAYWATER: No existing regulations. Constructed wetlands: are governed 
under 69.1(2). �On-site wastewater treatment and disposal system" means all 
equipment and devices necessary for proper conduction, collection, storage, 
treatment, and disposal of wastewater from four or fewer dwelling units or other 
facilities serving the equivalent of 15 persons (1,500 gpd) or less. This 
includes domestic waste, whether residential or nonresidential, but does not 
include industrial waste of any flow rate. Included within the scope of this 
definition are building sewers, septic tanks, subsurface absorption systems, 
mound systems, sand filters, constructed wetlands and individual 
mechanical/aerobic wastewater treatment systems. 567---69.11(455B) Constructed 
wetlands. 69.11(1) Constructed wetlands shall only be used where soil 
percolation rates at the site exceed 120 minutes per inch. Because of the higher 
maintenance requirements of constructed wetland systems, preference should be 
given to sand filters, where conditions allow. b). The effluent from a 
constructed wetland shall receive additional treatment through the use of 
intermittent sand filters of a magnitude of half that prescribed in rule 
69.9(455B). c) Effluent sampling of constructed wetlands shall be performed 
twice a year or as directed by the administrative authority. Tests shall be run 
on all parameters as required in 69.9(1). d). Specifications given in these 
rules for constructed wetlands are minimal and may not be sufficient for all 
applications. Technical specifications are changing with experience and 
research. Other design information beyond the scope of these rules may be 
necessary to properly design a constructed wetland system. 69.11(2) a). The 
wetland shall be of a subsurface flow construction with a rock depth of 18 
inches and a liquid depth of 12 inches. b). Substrate shall be washed river 
gravel with a diameter of 3/4 inch to 2� inches. If crushed quarried stone is 
used, it must meet the criteria listed in 69.6(4)"a." c). Detention time shall 
be a minimum of seven days. (1) This may be accomplished with trenches 16 to 18 
inches deep (12 inches of liquid), three feet wide with 100 feet of length per 
bedroom. This may also be done with beds 16 to 18 inches deep, with at least 300 
square feet of surface area per bedroom. The bottom of each trench or bed must 
be level within �� inch. (2) Multiple trenches or beds in series should be used. 
Beds or trenches in series may be stepped down in elevation to fit a hillside 
application. If the system is on one elevation, it should still be divided into 
units by earthen berms at about 50 and 75% of the total length. (3) Each subunit 
shall be connected to the next with an overflow pipe (rigid sewer pipe) that 
maintains the water level in the first section. Protection from freezing may be 
necessary. d). Wetlands shall be lined with a synthetic PVC or PE plastic liner 
20 to 30 mils thick. e). Effluent shall enter the wetland by a four inch pipe 
sealed into the liner. With beds, a header pipe shall be installed along the 
inlet side to distribute the waste. f). Wetland system sites shall be bermed to 
prevent surface water from entering the trenches or beds. 69.11(3) Vegetation 
shall be established on the wetlands at time of construction. Twelve inches of 
rock is placed in each unit, the plants are set, then the final four to six 
inches of rock is placed. b). Only indigenous plant species shall be used, 
preferably collected within a 100-mile radius of the site. Multiple species in 
each system are recommended. Preferred species include, but are not limited to: 
(1) Typha latifolia - Common cattail; (2) Typha angustifolia - Narrow leaf 
cattail; (3) Scirpus spp. - Bullrush; (4) Phragmites communis - Reed. 
Transplantation is the recommended method of vegetation establishment. For 
transplanting, the propagule should be transplanted, at a minimum, on a two-foot 
grid. The transplants should be fertilized, preferably with a controlled release 
fertilizer such as Osmocote 18-5-11 for fall and winter planting, 18-6-12 for 
spring planting, and 19-6-12 for summer planting. Trenches or beds should be 
filled with fresh water immediately. d). In the late fall, the vegetation shall 
be mown and the detritus left on the wetland surface as a temperature mulch. In 
the early spring, the mulch shall be removed and disposed of to allow for 
adequate bed aeration.63 
Kansas: Department of Health and Environment, Bureau of 
Water, Nonpoint Source Section, Forbes Field, Building 283, Topeka, KS 66620; 
Ph. (785) 296-4195 or 1683. 
REGULATION(S): No existing regulations. If 
regulations existed, they should fall under the Kansas Administrative 
Regulations (KAR) Chapter 25, Article 5, Sewage and Excreta 
Disposal.
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing 
regulations. Bulletin 4-2, Minimum Standards for Design and Construction of 
Onsite Wastewater Systems (March 1997) mentions alternative systems when 
conventional absorption fields or ponds are not suitable.64 
K.A.R. 28-5-9 gives authority to county health departments, in counties that 
have local codes, to grant variances for alternative onsite wastewater treatment 
and disposal systems. The variance request is filed with the county 
administrative agency.65 
Kentucky: Department for Public Health, Division of 
Public Health Protection and Safety, Environmental Management Branch, Community 
Environment Section, 275 East Main Street, Frankfort, KY 40621; Ph. (502) 
564-4856; FAX (502) 564-6533; Contact: Craig Sheehan, R.S., Health Inspection 
Program Evaluator; Email: [email protected] 
REGULATION(S): 902 Kentucky Administrative Regulations 10:085 Kentucky Onsite 
Sewage Disposal Systems (September 1989). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: are mentioned 
under 1b, 8. System Sizing Standards. When approved permanent non-water carriage 
water closet type devices (composting toilets, incinerator toilets, oil carriage 
toilets, etc.) are installed exclusively in any residence and no other 
blackwater type wastes are created, the daily design flow unit for that specific 
residence may be reduced.66 
GRAYWATER: in Section 2(13) means wastewater generated by water-using 
fixtures and appliances, excluding the toilet and the garbage disposal.67 
Graywater standards are mentioned under 13a-c, 8. When improved performance (of 
a septic system) may be attained by separating laundry graywater waste flows 
from other residential waste flow for new system installations, or as repair for 
existing systems, such separation shall be accomplished in the following manner: 
a) Graywater sewer for the washing machine shall be separated from the main 
house sewer; b) laundry graywater shall discharge into a lateral bed or 
trench(es) of a minimum of 100 square feet of bottom surface soil absorption 
area for a two bedroom residence and an additional 50 square feet for each 
additional bedroom; c) new system installations where laundry wasteflow 
separation exists are permitted a 15% reduction in the primary system lateral 
field requirements shall be allowed only for sites with soils in Soil Groups 
I-III. On sites with soils in Soil Group IV, such separation may be required, 
but no system size reduction will be granted.68 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: or plant-rock filters generally consist of a primary 
treatment unit, usually a septic tank with two compartments or special filters, 
with a lined rock bed or cell containing approximately 12 inches of rock and a 
small overflow lateral field. Aquatic plants are planted in the rock media and 
treat the effluent to a very high degree. Any excess effluent is disposed of in 
the lateral field. Wetlands are sized based on 1.3 cubic feet of gravel area for 
each one gallon of total daily waste flow. A typical size for a three bedroom 
home would be 468 square feet of interior area. Various length to width ratios 
are acceptable with generally a relatively narrow width to longer length 
preferable. The system functions primarily by wastewater entering the treatment 
unit where some treatment occurs. The partially treated wastewater then enters 
the lined wetlands cell through solid piping where it is distributed across the 
cell. The plants within the system act to introduce oxygen into the wastewater 
through their roots. As the wastewater becomes oxygenated, beneficial 
microorganisms and fungi can thrive, where they in turn digest organic matter. 
In addition, fairly large amounts of water may be lost through 
evapotranspiration. Advantages of installing a constructed wetlands system are 
that they: 1) are space conservative (approximately 1/3 of conventional rock 
lateral); 2) can be placed on irregular or segmented lots; and 3) may be placed 
in areas with shallow water tables, high bedrock or restrictive horizons. 
Disadvantages include that constructed wetlands systems: 1) require a higher 
level of maintenance than other conventional systems; 2) may be more costly to 
install; and 3) have an unknown life span.69 
Louisiana: Department of Health and Hospitals, Office 
of Public Health, Sanitation Services, 106 Canal Blvd., Thibodaux, LA 70301; Ph. 
(504) 449 5007; Contact: Teda Boudreaux. 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER 
SYSTEMS, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations.70 
Maine: Department of Human Services, Bureau of Health, 
Division of Health Engineering, Wastewater and Plumbing Control Program, State 
House Station 10, Augusta, ME 04333-0010; Ph. (207) 287-5689. 
REGULATION(S): 
Maine Subsurface Waste Water Disposal Rules 144A CMR 241(20 January 1998). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: are regulated in Ch. 15, Section 1504.0. A composting 
toilet is designed to receive, store, and compost human wastes. Stabilized (that 
is, composted) wastes shall be removed for disposal when the toilet�s capacity 
is reached. The minimum interior volume of a composting toilet shall be large 
enough to allow complete stabilization of all wastes when the toilet is used 
continuously at its proposed usage level. Toilet wastes shall be deposited into 
a receiving area with a self-closing, tightly fitting lid. There shall be a 
separate access, with a tightly fitting lid, through which food wastes, or other 
materials needed for the composting process, are routed to the composting 
compartment. Composted material shall be removed from the storage area through a 
cleanout opening fitted with a tight door or lid. Non cleanout may be located in 
a food storage or preparation area. Any liquid overflow shall be discharged to a 
primitive or conventional disposal field. The contents of an alternative toilet 
shall be removed and disposed of in a legal and sanitary manner whenever they 
reach recommended capacity of the alternative toilet.71
GRAYWATER: 
1509.0 Separated Laundry Disposal Systems. The plumbing inspector may approve a 
separate laundry system for single-family dwelling units. A separated laundry 
field requires an application for subsurface waste water disposal system 
completed by a licensed site evaluator and a permit to install the system. Only 
waste water from a washing machine may be discharged to the separate laundry 
disposal field designed for that purpose. Separate laundry disposal fields may 
be designed and used for hot tubs or backwash water. A separated laundry 
disposal field does not require a septic tank.72
CONSTRUCTED 
WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Maryland: Maryland Department of the Environment, Water 
Management Administration, 2500 Broening Highway, Baltimore, MD 21224; Ph. (410) 
631-3778. 
REGULATION(S): Regulations may be discussed under Chapter 9, 
Subtitle 14A. Waterless Toilets (1993). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Waterless 
toilets are covered in Chapter 9, Subtitle 14A-01. Waterless Toilets The 
Maryland Department of the Environment does not prohibit the use of any NSF 
approved composting toilet for use anywhere in the State. The Department�s 
current regulation is to allow a 36% design flow reduction for residences when 
utilizing an NSF approved composting/waterless toilet.73 
GRAYWATER: Innovative graywater designs are currently allowed on a 
case-by-case basis under the Innovative and Alternative Program.74 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Massachusetts: Department of Environmental Protection, 
Division of Water Pollution Control, One Winter Street, 8th Floor, Boston, MA 
02108; Ph. (617) 292-5500; http://www.magnet.state.ma.us/dep/brp/wwm/wwmhome.htm; 
Contact: Doug Roth; Email: [email protected] For 
graywater, contact: Ruth Alfasso, graywater piloting coordinator; Email: [email protected]
REGULATION(S): 
310 CMR 15.000, Title 5: Innovative and Alternative Subsurface Sewage Disposal 
Technologies Approved for Use in Massachusetts (4 March 1998). 
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS: are certified for general use for new construction and for remedial 
use. Specific regulations concerning composting toilets follow: 1) compost 
temperature must be maintained above 131 degrees F (55 degrees C); 2) moisture 
must be maintained between 40-60% for best results; and 3) the system must be 
designed to store compostable and composted solids for at least two years, 
either inside the composting chamber or in a separate compost container. Compost 
must be disposed by one of two methods: 1) by on-site burial, covered with a 
minimum of six inches of clean compacted earth; or 2) by a licensed septage 
hauler. If any liquid by-product exists, it should be discharged through a 
graywater system that includes a septic tank and leaching system or removed by 
licensed septic hauler.75 
GRAYWATER: If the facility generates graywater (i.e, wastewater from sinks, 
showers, washing machines, etc.) a disposal system is still needed for the 
graywater. Title 5 has different requirements for remedial use and for new 
construction. Remedial use is for facilities which have a design flow of less 
than 10,000 gallons per day, are served by an existing system, and where there 
is no proposed increase in the design flow. An existing cesspool may be used as 
a leaching pit, provided that the cesspool is pumped and cleaned and is not 
located in groundwater, and meets the design criteria of 310 CMR 15.253 with 
respect to effective depth, separation between units, and inspection access. The 
cesspool may be replaced by a precast concrete leaching pit meeting those 
requirements, and the effluent loading requirements of Title 5. A septic tank 
should also be installed. Pertaining to graywater, a filter system specifically 
approved by the Department can be used instead of a septic tank.76 
Non-traditional graywater systems, such as those which use constructed wetlands 
or evapotranspiration beds, are approved on a piloting, site-specific 
basis.77 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations, approved on a piloting basis 
only.78 
Michigan: Department of Environmental Quality, 
Environmental Health Section, Drinking Water and Radiological Protection 
Division, PO Box 30630, Lansing, MI 48909-8130; Toll-free Ph. (800) 662-9278; 
Ph. (517) 335-8284. 
REGULATION(S): Michigan has one of the oldest existing 
guidelines for composting toilets and graywater systems. However, as there is no 
statewide sanitary code, the 46 local health departments define the criteria for 
onsite sewage disposal and �each county runs its own show.�79 
The Michigan Department of Health publishes Guidelines for Acceptable Innovative 
or Alternative Waste Treatment Systems and Acceptable Alternative Graywater 
Systems under authority of Act 421, P.A. 1981 (1986). Under Act 421, an owner of 
a structure using an acceptable an innovative or alternative waste treatment 
system (heretoafter referred to as �alternative systems�) in combination with an 
acceptable alternative graywater system (heretoafter referred to as �graywater 
systems�) shall not be required to connect to an available public sanitary sewer 
system.80 
Alternative system means a decentralized or individual waste system which has 
been approved for use by a local health department and which is properly 
operated and maintained so as to not cause a health hazard or nuisance. An 
acceptable alternative system may include, but is not limited to, an organic 
waste treatment system or composting toilet which operates on the principle of 
decomposition of heterogenous organic materials by aerobic and facultative 
anaerobic organisms and utilizes an effectively aerobic composting process which 
produces a stabilized humus. Alternative systems do not include septic 
tank-drainfield systems or any other systems which are determined by the 
department to pose a similar threat to the public health, safety and welfare, 
and the quality of surface and subsurface waters of this state.81 
A person may install and use in a structure an alternative system or an 
alternative system in combination with an graywater system. The installation and 
use of an alternative system or an alternative system in combination with a 
graywater system in a structure shall be subject to regulations by the local 
health department in accordance with the ordinances and regulations of the local 
units of government in which the structure lies. A local health department may 
inspect each alternative system within its jurisdiction at least once each year 
to determine if it being properly operated and maintained. 1) A local health 
department may charge the owner of an alternative system a reasonable fee for 
such an inspection and for the plan review and installation inspection. 2) The 
department shall maintain a record of approved alternative systems and their 
maintenance and adoption. The department, after consultation with the state 
plumbing board, shall adopt guidelines to assist local health departments in 
determining what are graywater systems and what are alternative systems. The 
department shall advise local health departments regarding the appropriate 
installation and use of alternative systems and alternative systems in 
combination with graywater systems. 3) A person who installs and uses an 
alternative system or an alternative system in combination with a graywater 
system shall not be exempt from any special assessments levied by a local unit 
of government for the purpose of financing the construction of an available 
public sanitary sewer system. 4) An owner of a structure using an alternative in 
combination with a graywater system shall not be required to connect to an 
available public sanitary sewer system.82 
GRAYWATER: system means a system for the treatment and disposal of 
wastewater which does not receive human body wastes or industrial waste which 
has been approved for use by a local health department and which is properly 
operated and maintained so as not to cause a health hazard or nuisance.83 
Structures which utilize alternative systems and graywater systems which are 
self-contained systems that do not have an on-site discharge should not be 
required to connect to an available public sanitary sewer system.84 
Alternative systems must meet the requirements of Sections 5 (6) and 21 of the 
Michigan Construction Code, act 230, Public Acts of 1972 as amended. Structures 
using alternative systems must also meet the requirements of the Michigan 
Plumbing Code.85 
Alternative systems and graywater systems should be tested by the National 
Sanitation Foundation (NSF) under Standard 41 testing protocol or by an 
equivalent independent testing agency and procedure. Lacking this testing 
procedure, the local health department should require performance data prior to 
approval. When requested, the Michigan Department of Public Health will assist 
local health departments in evaluating performance data from the NSF and other 
sources. Each local health department should require appropriate methods for 
disposal of stored liquid or solid end products from alternative systems.86 
To the extent that funds are available, the department will provide training and 
technical field assistance to local health departments regarding the appropriate 
installation and use of alternative systems and graywater systems.87 
A person may petition, in writing, the commission to approve the use of a 
particular material, product, method of manufacture or method or manner of 
construction or installation. On receipt of the petition, the commission shall 
cause to be conducted testing and evaluation it deem desirable. After testing 
and evaluation, and an open public hearing, the commission may reject the 
petition in whole or in part, may amend the code in such matter as the 
commission deems appropriate, or may grant a certificate of acceptability.88 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: The Department of Environmental Quality provides a 
document entitled Review of Subsurface Flow Constructed Wetlands Literature and 
Suggested Design and Construction Practices. Constructed wetlands are run 
through a primary septic tank and then through a subsurface disposal 
system.89 
In fact, this guide recommends that at least two septic tanks should be provided 
with a total volume of at least two times the design daily flow.90 
Minnesota: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Water 
Quality Division, Nonpoint Source Compliance Section, 520 Layfayette Road, St. 
Paul, MN 55155-4194; Ph. (612) 296-7574; http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/arule/7080
REGULATION(S): 
Chapter 7080.9010, Alternative and Experimental Systems [Repealed as of 
02/28/00!]
COMPOSTING TOILETS: No regulations,91 
except in Subpart 3G which mentions that other toilet waste treatment devices 
may be used where reasonable assurance of performance is provided.92 
GRAYWATER: Use of alternative systems is allowed only in areas where a 
standard system cannot be installed or is not the most suitable treatment. 
Subpart 3E of Ch. 7080.9010 states that a toilet waste treatment device must be 
used in conjunction with a graywater system. Accordingly, toilets wastes shall 
be discharged only to toilet waste treatment devices. Graywater or garbage shall 
not be discharged to the device, except as specifically recommended by a 
manufacturer. Septic systems are required for graywater systems. The drainage 
system in new dwellings or other establishments shall be based on a pipe 
diameter of two inches to prevent installation of a water flush toilet. There 
shall be no openings or connections to the drainage system, including floor 
drains, larger than two inches in diameter. For repair or replacement of an 
existing system, the existing drainage system may be used. Toilets or urinals of 
any kind shall not be connected to the drainage system. Toilet waste or garbage 
shall not be discharged to the drainage system. Garbage grinders shall not be 
connected to the drainage system. The building sewer shall meet all requirements 
for part 7080.0120, except that the building sewer for a graywater system shall 
be no greater than two inches in diameter. Graywater septic tanks shall meet all 
requirements of 7080.0130, subpart 1, except that the liquid capacity of a 
graywater septic tank serving a dwelling shall be based on the number of 
bedrooms existing and anticipated in the dwelling served and shall be at least 
as large as the following given capacities: 2 bedrooms, 300 gallon capacity; 3 
or 4 rooms, 500 gallons; 5 or 6 rooms, 750 gallons; 7, 8 or 9 rooms, 1000 
gallons. 4) Sizing for the system can be 60% of the amount calculated for a 
standard septic system. For ten or more bedrooms or other establishments, the 
graywater septic tank shall be sized as for any other establishment, except the 
minimum liquid capacity shall be at least 300 gallons. Graywater aerobic tanks 
shall meet all requirements of part 7080.0130. 6) Distribution and dosing of 
graywater shall meet all requirements of parts 7000.0150 and 7080.0160. 7) A 
standard graywater system shall meet all requirements of part 7080.0170. 
Experimental systems are discussed in subpart 3a. They may be used in areas 
where a standard systems cannot be installed or if a system is considered new 
technology with limited data on reliability.93 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Mississippi: Mississippi State Department of Health, PO 
Box 1700, Jackson, MS 39215-1700; Ph. (601) 576-7689; Contact: Ralph Turnbo. 
REGULATION(S): Mississippi Individual On-Site Wastewater Disposal System 
Law, Chapter 41-67 (1996).
COMPOSTING TOILETS: 2.3 (28) Non-Waterborne 
Disposal System - any non-water carried system that treats and/or disposes of 
human excreta.94 
Non-Waterborne Wastewater Systems are covered under MSDH 300-Section 02A-XIII-01 
(revised February 17, 1997). 1. In remote areas of the State or certain 
transient or temporary locations, the use of non-waterborne systems such as 
sanitary pit privies, portable toilets, incinerating toilets, composting toilets 
and related sewage systems may be approved. Due to their limited capacities, 
these systems are restricted to receive excreta only. Since such systems require 
regular service and maintenance to prevent their malfunction and overflow, they 
shall only be used where the local health department approves such use.95 
GRAYWATER: No existing regulations. 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: Constructed 
wetlands are discussed in Design Standard VII: Plant Rock Filter System, MSDH 
300-Section 021-VII. I. A plant rock filter (constructed wetlands) wastewater 
treatment system may be utilized as an overland/containment system on sites 
where soil and site conditions prohibit the installation of a conventional or 
modified subsurface disposal system. In suitable soils, a plant rock filter may 
utilize underground absorption to dispose of effluent. It may also be utilized 
to polish effluent from malfunctioning �seeping� absorption field lines on 
existing systems. II. The plant rock filter may consist of a single cell, two 
cells in series or multiple cells in series. The design will depend on the 
topography. Differences in individual design, construction materials and 
construction methods allow each of these types of plant/rock filter to vary 
widely in their application. Careful consideration should be made during the 
soil/site evaluation to ensure that the �best choice� is recommended for the 
particular site. Recommendations developed by the Tennessee Valley Authority�s 
General Design, Construction, and Operation Guidelines Constructed Wetlands 
Wastewater Treatment Systems for Small Users Including Individual Residences, 
Second Edition, have been adopted by reference.96 
Missouri: Missouri Department of Health, Bureau of 
Community Environmental Health, PO Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570; Ph. 
(573) 751-6095; FAX (573) 526-6946 or 751-0247. 
REGULATION(S): Missouri Laws 
for On-Site Disposal Systems, Chapter 701, Section 701.025 (28 August 
1998).
COMPOSTING TOILETS: No existing regulations. May be covered under 
�Other Systems.� Where unusual conditions exist, special systems of treatment 
and disposal, other than those specifically mentioned in this rule, may be 
employed, provided: 1) reasonable assurance of performance of the system is 
presented to the administrative authority; 2) the engineering design of the 
system is first approved by the administrative authority; 3) adequate 
substantiating data indicate that the effluent will not contaminate any drinking 
water supply, groundwater used for drinking water or any surface water; 4) 
treatment and disposal of the waste will not deteriorate the public health and 
general welfare; and 5) discharge of effluent, if any, shall be within setback 
distances as described in the rules.97 
GRAYWATER: Under 701.025,12(b), graywater includes bath, lavatory, laundry, 
and sink waste, excepting human excreta, toilet waste, residential kitchen waste 
and other similar waste from household or establishment appurtenances.98 
Title 19, Division 20, Chapter 3, General Sanitation, defines graywater as 
liquid waste, specifically excluding toilet, hazardous, culinary and oily 
wastes, from a dwelling or other establishment which is produced by bathing, 
laundry, or discharges from floor drains.99 
There are no design recommendations or regulations governing graywater systems. 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: provide secondary levels of treatment, which means 
that some form of pretreatment (septic tank, aeration tank, lagoon, etc.), must 
be used prior to the wetland, as wetlands cannot withstand large influxes of 
suspended solids. The pretreatment used must be capable of removing a large 
portion of these solids. Effluent from wetlands must be contained on the owner�s 
property with the same set-back distances as required for lagoons. 1. Free water 
surface wetlands are shallow beds or channels with a depth less than 24 inches 
and filled with emergent aquatic plants. This type of wetland shall not be 
allowed. 2. Submerged flow wetlands are similar to free water surface wetlands 
except that the channels are filled with shallow depths of rock, gravel or sand. 
The depth of the porous media is usually less than 18 inches. The porous medium 
supports the root systems of the emergent aquatic vegetation. The water level is 
to be maintained below the top of the porous medium so that there is no open 
water surface. The configuration of a wetland for an individual home can be a 
one cell or two cells in a series, depending on the soil properties of the 
site.100 
Montana: Montana Department of Environmental Quality, 
Lee Metcalf Building, 1520 E. Sixth Avenue, PO Box 200901, Helena, MT 
59620-0901; Ph. (406) 444-4633; FAX (406) 444-1374; Contact: Mark M. Peterson, 
P.E., Environmental Engineering Specialist, Permitting and Compliance Division; 
Email: [email protected]. REGULATION(S): Circular WQB 5. Minimum Design 
Standards for On-Site Alternative Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (1992). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Under Chapter 70.1, waste segregation systems consist of 
dry disposal for human waste such as various chemical and incinerator type 
systems with separate disposal for graywater. However, regardless of the type of 
dry disposal system used, the graywater must be disposed of by primary (septic 
tank) and secondary (subsurface drainfield) treatment.101 
Waste segregation systems will only be considered for recreational type 
dwellings which receive seasonal use or commercial buildings.102 
GRAYWATER: No existing regulations. Graywater must be disposed of through a 
septic tank and drainfield system.
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing 
regulations. 
Nebraska: Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality, 
Ground Water Section, PO Box 98922, Lincoln, NE 68509-8922; Ph. (402) 471-2580 
or (505) 827-7541; http://www.deq.state.ne.us/RuleAndR.nsf/390ed3941b29c12f8625682c006210e9/80857228ae0f5c2786256800005153a8?OpenDocument; 
Contact: Brian Sohall.
REGULATION(S): If they existed, regulations would 
probably be found in Title 124, Rules and Regulations for Design, Operation and 
Maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems. 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, 
GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. Graywater is defined, 
but no systems are necessarily allowed under Title 124. 
Nevada: Department of Human Resources, Health Division, 
Bureau of Health Protection Services, 1179 Fairview Drive, Suite 101, Carson 
City, NV 89701-5405; Ph. (702) 687-6615 (general number); Ph. (702) 687-4750 
(direct line); Contact: Joe Pollack. 
REGULATION(S): R129-98. Sewage disposal 
is regulated under Nevada Administrative Code 444.750 (February 
1998).
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Not approved. 
GRAYWATER: systems are governed 
under Regulation R129-98, Section 78. 1. Graywater may be used for underground 
irrigation if approved by the administrative authority. A homeowner must obtain 
a permit to construct, alter or install a system that uses graywater for 
underground irrigation from the administrative authority before such a system 
may be constructed, altered or installed. 2. A system that uses graywater for 
underground irrigation: a) may be used only for a single family dwelling; b) 
must not be used in soils which have a percolation rate that is greater than 120 
minutes per inch; c) must consist of a three-way diversion valve, a holding tank 
for the graywater and an irrigation system; d) may be equipped with a pump or 
siphon, or may rely on gravity to cause the water to flow to the irrigation 
system; e) must not be connected to a system for potable water; and f) must not 
result in the surfacing of any graywater. 3. A system that uses graywater for 
underground irrigation, or any part thereof, must not be located on a lot other 
than the lot which is the site of the single-family dwelling that discharges the 
graywater to be used in the system. Section 79. 1. An application to construct, 
alter or install a system that uses graywater for underground irrigation must 
include: a) detailed plans of the system to be constructed, altered or 
installed; b) detailed plans of the existing and proposed sewage disposal 
system; and c) data from percolation tests conducted in accordance with NAC 
444.796 and sections 40 to 43, inclusive, of this regulation. 2. A holding tank 
for graywater must: a) be watertight and constructed of solid, durable materials 
that are not subject to excessive corrosion or decay; b) have a minimum capacity 
of 50 gallons; c) have an overflow and an emergency drain. The overflow and 
emergency drain must not be equipped with a shutoff valve. 3. A three-way 
diversion valve, emergency drain and overflow must be permanently connected to 
the building drain or building sewer and must be located upstream from any 
septic tanks. The required size of an individual sewage disposal system must not 
be reduced solely because a system that uses graywater for underground 
irrigation is being used in conjunction with the individual sewage disposal 
system. 4. The piping for a system that uses graywater for underground 
irrigation which discharges into the holding tank or is directly connected to 
the building sewer must be downstream of any vented trap to protect the building 
from possible sewer gases. 5. The estimated discharge of a system that uses 
graywater for underground irrigation must be calculated based on the number of 
bedrooms in the building, as follows: a) for the first bedroom, the estimated 
discharge of graywater is 80 gallons per day; and b) for each additional 
bedroom, the estimated discharge of graywater is 40 gallons per day. 6. The 
absorption area for an irrigation system that includes a system that uses 
graywater for underground irrigation must be calculated in accordance with the 
following parameters: percolation rate of 0-20 minutes per inch, 20 square feet 
(minimum square feet per 100 gallons discharged per day); 21-40 minutes/inch, 40 
gallons/day; 41-60 minutes/inch, 60 gallons/day.103
CONSTRUCTED 
WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
New Hampshire: Department of Environmental Services, 
Bureau of Wastewater Treatment, 6 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301; Ph. (603) 
271-3711 or 3503; http://www.state.nh.us/gencourt/ols/rules/env-ws.htm
REGULATION(S): 
Chapter Env-Ws 1000 Subdivision and Individual Sewage Disposal System Design 
Rules. Env-Ws 1022 deals with Alternate Systems. 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, 
GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. New Hampshire, does, 
however, have extensive regulations pertaining to Alternate Systems, as follows. 
Part Env-Ws 1024 Innovative/Alternative Technology. The purpose of this part is 
to provide the methodology and review process for the approval of 
innovative/alternative individual sewage disposal systems, in compliance with 
RSA 485-A:29, I. b.This part shall apply to any proposed individual sewage 
disposal system technology not described elsewhere in Env-Ws 1000. 
a."Conventional system" means an individual sewage disposal system regulated 
under Env-Ws 1000 other than Env-Ws 1024. b."Innovative/Alternative waste 
treatment" as defined in RSA 485-A:2, XXI, includes individual sewage disposal 
systems. c."ITA" means innovative/alternative technology approval. Env-Ws 
1024.03 a.If the system will require ongoing professional maintenance, a service 
contract for such maintenance shall be executed before operational approval is 
granted. b.In exchange for obtaining the benefit of an operational approval 
based on innovative/alternative technology, the owner shall covenant to replace 
the innovative/alternative system with a conventional system should the 
innovative/alternative system fail to operate lawfully. The covenant shall be 
recorded by the owner at the registry of deeds where the property is located. 
Env-Ws 1024.04 ITA Applications. a.Before an innovative/alternative waste 
treatment system may be used the technology shall be evaluated and approved in 
an ITA. b.To obtain an ITA, an owner, designer, or other person shall submit a 
letter of application that includes the following: 1).A written description of 
the proposed system; 2) All operational reports, patent information, technical 
reports, and laboratory reports published on the proposed system, even if the 
information might in whole or in part reflect negatively on the system; 3) A 
description of any advantages of the proposed system over conventional systems 
in the prevention of health hazards, surface and groundwater pollution, and any 
other environmental benefits; 4).A description of the possible risks to public 
health, surface or groundwaters, or other aspects of the environment of using 
the proposed system; 5).The names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least 
three individuals who have experience in the design operation of the same type 
of system; 6).The proposed system's effect on the area of land required for 
operation; 7).A list of any rules under Env-Ws 1000 for which waivers will be 
required; and 8).A list of site locations where the system has been used, 
whether successfully or not.104 
New Jersey: Department of Environmental Protection, 
Bureau of Nonpoint Pollution Control, PO Box 029, Trenton, NJ 08625-0029; Ph. 
(609) 292-0404 or 4543; http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dwq/rules.htm 
REGULATION(S): New .Jersey Administrative Code 7:9A Standards for Individual 
Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems.
COMPOSTING TOILETS: No existing 
regulations. GRAYWATER: 7:9A-2.1 "Graywater" means that portion of the sanitary 
sewage generated within a residential, commercial or institutional facility 
which does not include discharges from water closets or urinals.105 
7:9A-1.8 (c) In cases where the actual volume of sanitary sewage discharged from 
a facility will be reduced by use of water-saving plumbing fixtures, recycling 
of renovated wastewater, incineration or composting of wastes, evaporation of 
sewage effluent or any other process, the requirement for obtaining a treatment 
works approval and a NJPDES permit shall be based upon the design volume of 
sanitary sewage, calculated as prescribed in N.J.A.C. 7:9A-7.4, rather than the 
actual discharge volume as modified by water conservation or special treatment 
processes.7:9A-7.3 (a) The system(s) shall be designed to receive all sanitary 
sewage from the building served except in the following cases: 1. Separate 
systems may be designed to receive only graywater, or only blackwater, as 
allowed in N.J.A.C. 7:9A-7.5. 7:9A-7.5 A graywater system may be approved by the 
administrative authority provided that all of the requirements of these 
standards are satisfied and provided that an acceptable means for disposal of 
the blackwater from the building served is indicated in the system design. When 
the blackwater from the building served by a graywater system is to be disposed 
of into a waterless toilet, a variance from the Uniform Construction Code, 
Plumbing sub-code, N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.5, must be obtained by the applicant prior to 
approval of the graywater system by the administrative authority and the volume 
of sanitary sewage to be used in the design of the graywater system shall be 
determined as prescribed in N.J.A.C. 7:9A-7.4. When the blackwater from the 
building served by a graywater system is to be disposed of into a separate 
subsurface sewage disposal system, the blackwater system shall meet all the 
requirements of this chapter and the volume of sanitary sewage used in the 
design of both the graywater system and the blackwater system shall be a minimum 
of 75 % of the volume of sanitary sewage determined as prescribed in N.J.A.C. 
7:9A-7.4.106 
7:9A-7.6 Each system approved by the administrative authority pursuant to this 
chapter shall consist of a septic tank which discharges effluent through a 
gravity flow, gravity dosing or pressure dosing network to a disposal field as 
hereafter described. Seepage pits shall not be approved for new installations 
except in the case of a graywater system as provided by in N.J.A.C. 7:9A-7.5. 
Installation of a seepage pit may be approved as an alteration for an existing 
system subject to the requirements of N.J.A.C. 7:9A-3.3.107 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations.108 
7:9A-3.11 Experimental systems The Department encourages the development and use 
of new technologies which may improve the treatment of sanitary sewage prior to 
discharge or allow environmentally safe disposal of sanitary sewage in areas 
where standard sewage disposal systems might not function adequately. Where the 
design, location, construction or installation of the system or any of its 
components does not conform to this chapter, the administrative authority shall 
direct the applicant to apply to the Department for a treatment works approval. 
Depending upon the volume and quality of the wastewater discharged, a NJPDES 
permit may also be required.109 
New Mexico: State of New Mexico Environment Department, 
524 Camino De Los Marquez, Suite 4, Santa Fe, NM 87505; Ph. (505) 827-7545 or 
7541 (direct number); FAX (505) 827-7545; Contact: R. Brian Schall, Water 
Resource Specialist/Community Services. 
REGULATION(S): 20 NMAC 7.3, Liquid 
Waste Disposal Regulations (10 October 1997). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Composting 
toilets are allowed, although there is no mention of them in the 
regulations.110
GRAYWATER: 
Subpart I, Part 107. AF. "graywater" means water carried waste from kitchen 
(excluding garbage disposal) and bathroom sinks, wet bar sinks, showers, 
bathtubs and washing machines. Graywater does not include water carried wastes 
from kitchen sinks equipped with a garbage disposal, utility sinks, any 
hazardous materials, or laundry water from the washing of material soiled with 
human excreta.111 
Revised regulations will have a separate section allowing graywater systems. 
However, the system will still have to run through a septic tank. Graywater can 
then be used for subsurface irrigation.112
CONSTRUCTED 
WETLANDS: Constructed wetlands are considered an �alternative system.�113 
Subpart II deals with alternative systems. The Department may issue a permit, on 
an individual basis, for the installation of an alternative on-site liquid waste 
system, including a system employing new and innovative technology, if the 
permit applicant demonstrates that the proposed system, by itself or in 
combination with other on-site liquid waste systems, will neither cause a hazard 
to public health nor degrade a body of water, and that the proposed system will 
provide a level of treatment at least as effective as that provided by on-site 
liquid waste systems, except privies and holding tanks, that meet the 
requirements of this Part and the New Mexico Design Standards.114 
New York: New York State Department of Health, Bureau 
of Community Sanitation and Food Protection, 2 University Place, Room 404, 
Albany, NY 12203-3399; Ph. (518) 458-6706; Contact: Ben Pierson. 
REGULATION(S): Appendix 75-A, Wastewater Treatment Standards - Individual 
Household Systems, Statutory Authority: Public Health Law 201(1)(1) (1 December 
1990). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: 75-A. 10 Other Systems. (b) Non-Waterborne 
Systems. (1) In certain areas of the State where running water is not available 
or is too scarce to economically support flush toilets, or where there is a need 
or desire to conserve water, the installation of non-waterborne sewage systems 
may be considered, however, the treatment of wastewater from sinks, showers, and 
other facilities must be provided when non-flush toilets are installed. The 
Individual Residential Wastewater Treatment Systems Design Handbook gives more 
detail regarding composting toilets.115 
The State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code [9NYCRR Subtitle S Sections 
900.1(a) and (b)] requires wet plumbing (i.e., potable water plus sewerage) for 
all new residences. In accordance with Section 900.2(b), minimal required 
plumbing fixtures may be omitted for owner occupied single family dwellings if 
approved by the authority having jurisdiction. Health Department approval for 
said omission(s) shall be fully protective of public health and be in general 
harmony with the intent of Section 900.1 (i.e., provide satisfactory sanitary 
facilities). In some areas of the state where available water becomes 
insufficient to economically use flush toilets (i.e., even those with only 1.6 
gallons per flush) or where a need or desire exists to conserve water, use of 
non-waterborne systems may be justified.116 
Composters: These units accept human waste into a chamber where composting of 
the waste occurs.117 
Composters accept only toilet wastes and kitchen food scraps coupled with 
supplemental additions of carbon-rich bulking agents such as planar shavings or 
coarse sawdust. Household cleaning products should not be placed in the unit. 
Failure to add adequate bulking agents or maintain aerobic moisture can result 
in the pile becoming hard (and difficult to remove) or anaerobic. The composted 
humus contains numerous bacteria and may also contain viruses and cysts. 
Residual wastes (i.e., the composted humus) should be periodically removed by a 
professional septage hauler. If a homeowner chooses to personally remove the 
composted humus, it should be disposed of at a sanitary landfill or buried and 
well mixed into soil distant from food crops, water supply sources and 
watercourses. The humus comprises an admixture of recent additions and composted 
older additions and should be disposed of accordingly. Humus disposal sites 
shall meet Table 2 separation distances for sanitary privy pits.118 
These units shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturers 
instructions. The units shall have a label indicating compliance with the 
requirements of NSF Standard 41 or equivalent. Only units with a warranty of 
five years or more shall be installed.119 
GRAYWATER: systems shall be designed upon a flow of 75 gpd/bedroom and meet 
all the criteria previously discussed for treatment of household 
wastewater.120 
The treatment of household wastewater is regulated by 75-A.8. Subsurface 
Treatment. (a) General Information. All effluent from septic tanks or aerobic 
tanks shall be discharged to a subsurface treatment system. Surface discharge of 
septic tank or aerobic effluent shall not be approved by the Department of 
Health or a local health department acting as its agent.121 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: There is no official state policy regarding 
constructed wetlands. It is doubtful that the state or county health departments 
would approve them.122 
North Carolina: Department of Environmental Health and 
Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Health, On-Site Wastewater Section, 
PO Box 27687, Raleigh, NC 27611-7687; Ph. (919) 733-2895 or 7015. 
REGULATION(S): Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems, Section .1900 (April 
1993). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Section.1934. The rules contained in this Section 
shall govern the treatment and disposal of domestic type sewage from septic tank 
systems, privies, incinerating toilets, mechanical toilets, composting toilets, 
recycling toilets, or other such systems serving single or multiple family 
residences, places of business, or places of public assembly, the effluent from 
which is designed not to discharge to the land surface or surface waters. 
Section.1958 (a) Where an approved privy, an approved septic tank system, or a 
connection to an approved public or community sewage system is impossible or 
impractical, this Section shall not prohibit the state or local health 
department from permitting approved non-ground absorption treatment systems 
utilizing heat or other approved means for reducing the toilet contents to inert 
or stabilized residue or to an otherwise harmless condition, rendering such 
contents noninfectious or noncontaminating. Alternative systems shall be 
designed to comply with the purposes and intent of this Section. (c) 
Incinerating, composting, vault privies, and mechanical toilets shall be 
approved by the state agency or local health department only when all of the 
sewage will receive adequate treatment and disposal.123 
GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations.124 
North Dakota: North Dakota Department of Health, 
Environmental Health Section, Division of Municipal Facilities, 1200 Missouri 
Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58504-5264; Ph. (701) 328-5211 or 5150; FAX (701) 328-5200; 
Contact: Jeff Hauge, P.E, Environmental Engineer. 
REGULATION(S): Chapter 
62-03-16. Individual Sewage Treatment Systems for Homes and Other Establishments 
Where Public Sewage Systems are not Available (1996). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: 
62-03-16-01. Where water under pressure is not available, all human body wastes 
shall be disposed of by depositing them in approved privies, chemical toilets or 
such other installations acceptable to the administrative authority.125 
GRAYWATER: 62-03-16-01. 6. Water-carried sewage from bathrooms, kitchens, 
laundry fixtures, and other household plumbing shall pass through a septic or 
other approved sedimentation tank prior to its discharge into the soil or into 
an alternative system. Where underground disposal for treatment is not feasible, 
consideration will be given to special methods of collection and disposal.126 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Ohio: Bureau of Local Services, Ohio Department of 
Health, 246 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43266-0588; Ph. (614) 466-5190 or 
1390; Contact: Tom Grigsby, Program Specialist; Email: [email protected]
REGULATION(S): 
O.A.C. Chapter 3701-29 Household Sewage Disposal Rules (1977). 
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS, GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. Chapter 
3701-29-20. Variance. (C). Household sewage disposal system components or 
household sewage disposal systems differing in design or principle of operation 
from those set forth in rules 3701-29-01 to 3701-29-21, may qualify for approval 
as a special device or system provided, comprehensive tests and investigations 
show any such component or system produces results equivalent to those obtained 
by sewage disposal components or systems complying with such regulations. Such 
approval shall be obtained in writing from the director of health.127 
Oklahoma : Department of Environmental Quality, 1000 
Northeast 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73177-1212; Ph. (405) 271-7363 or 
702-8100 (Division of Water Quality); Contact: Donnie Johnson. 
REGULATION(S): Chapter 640. Individual and Small Public Sewage Disposal 
(1998). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing 
regulations. Chapter 640-1-12 governs alternative/experimental disposal systems. 
Where unusual conditions exist, special systems of treatment and disposal, other 
than individual sewage disposal systems mentioned may be employed, provided 
that: 1) reasonable assurance is presented to the Department that the system 
will work properly; 2) the design of the system is approved by the Department 
prior to installation; 3) there is no discharge to the waters of the state; 4) 
treatment and disposal of waste are in such a manner as to protect public health 
and the environment; 5) such systems comply with all local codes and ordinances. 
(b) Special alternative systems or experimental systems shall be considered on a 
case-by-case basis, weighing heavily in the approval process. The plans for 
alternative systems shall be reviewed by the Department and approved or 
disapproved by the Area or Regional Supervisor. After construction, the 
installation of the alternative system shall be approved or disapproved by the 
local DEQ representative. (c) To apply for approval of such systems an applicant 
shall file two copies of test results based on OAC 252:640-1-9 and two copies of 
the design plan for the proposed system with the local representative of the 
Department for the area in which the property is located.128 
Oregon: Department of Environmental Quality, Water 
Quality Division, 811 Southwest 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97204-1390; Ph. (503) 
229-6443; http://www.cbs.state.or.us/ 
(click on statute/rules and go to oar 918-770 (division 770); http://landru.leg.state.or.us/ors/447.htm; 
http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/banners/rules.htm; 
Contact: Sherman Olson, Terry Swisher: Ph (503) 373-7488. 
REGULATION(S): 
Oregon Administrative Rules, Chapter 918, Division 790, Composting Toilet Rules 
(1998); Oregon Revised Statutes 447.115 (1997); OAR Chapter 340, Divison 71 
(1997). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: As used in ORS 447.118 and 447.124, "compost 
toilet" means a permanent, sealed, water-impervious toilet receptacle screened 
from insects, used to receive and store only human wastes, urine and feces, 
toilet paper and biodegradable garbage, and ventilated to utilize aerobic 
composting for waste treatment. 447.118 (1) Nothing in ORS 447.010 to 447.160 
shall prohibit the installation of a compost toilet for a dwelling by the 
occupant of the dwelling if the compost toilet complies with the minimum 
requirements established under this section. (2) Rules adopted under ORS 447.020 
shall provide minimum requirements for the design, construction, installation 
and maintenance of compost toilets. (3) The Director of the Department of 
Consumer and Business Services with the approval of the State Plumbing Board may 
require by rule that, in addition to any other requirements provided by law, any 
manufacturer or distributor of a compost toilet and any person other than the 
owner of the dwelling in which the compost toilet is to be installed who 
proposes to install a compost toilet file with the Department of Consumer and 
Business Services a satisfactory bond, irrevocable letter of credit issued by an 
insured institution as defined in ORS 706.008 or other security in an amount to 
be fixed by the department with approval of the board but not to exceed $5,000, 
conditioned that such bond, letter of credit or security shall be forfeited in 
whole or in part to the department for the purpose of carrying out the 
provisions of ORS 447.124 by failure of such manufacturer, distributor or person 
to comply with the rules adopted under this section. 447.124 The Department of 
Consumer and Business Services, with the assistance of the Health Division: (1) 
May conduct periodic inspections of any compost toilet; (2) Upon making a 
finding that a compost toilet is in violation of the rules adopted pursuant to 
ORS 447.118 (2), may issue an order requiring the owner of the dwelling served 
by the compost toilet to take action necessary to correct the violation; and (3) 
Upon making a finding that a compost toilet presents or threatens to present a 
public health hazard creating an emergency requiring immediate action to protect 
the public health, safety or welfare, may issue an order requiring the owner of 
the dwelling served by the compost toilet to take any action necessary to remove 
such hazard or threat thereof. If such owner fails to take the actions required 
by such order, the department shall take such action, itself or by contract with 
outside parties, as necessary to remove the hazard or threat thereof.129 
More specific information regarding composting toilets is given under Chapter 
918-718-0010. Composting toilets: 1) must be ventilated (electrical or 
mechanical); 2) shall have at least one cubic yard capacity for a one or two 
bedroom dwelling; 3) shall be limited to installation in areas where a graywater 
disposal system can be installed and used; 4) shall be installed in an insulated 
area to keep a biological balance of the materials therein; and 5) humus from 
composting toilets may be used around ornamental shrubs, flowers, trees, or 
fruit trees and shall be buried under at least 12 inches of soil cover. Deposit 
of humus from any compost toilet around any edible vegetation or vegetable shall 
be prohibited.130 
Composting toilets must be approved by the NSF Standard 41.131 
GRAYWATER: 447.140 (1) All waste water and sewage from plumbing fixtures 
shall be discharged into a sewer system or alternate sewage disposal system 
approved by the Environmental Quality Commission or department of Environmental 
Quality under ORS chapters 468, 468A and 468B. Graywater is technically defined 
as sewage and still requires a septic tank and drainfield, although the septic 
system can be reduced in size.132 
Chapter 340, Divisions 71 and 73: Under the �split-waste method,� blackwater 
sewage and graywater sewage from the same dwelling or building are disposed of 
by separate systems.133 
340-71-320. Split Waste Method. In a split waste method, wastes may be disposed 
of as follows: (1) Black wastes may be disposed of by the use of State Building 
Codes Division approved non-water carried plumbing units such as recirculating 
oil flush toilets or compost toilets. (2) Graywater may be disposed of by 
discharge to: a) an existing on-site system which is not failing; or b) a new 
on-site system with a soil absorption facility 2/3 normal size. A full size 
initial disposal area and replacement disposal area of equal size are required; 
or c) a public sewerage system.134 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: Performance based permits are issued for constructed 
wetlands. Several systems have been installed in Oregon, but not for single 
family homes.135 
Pennsylvania: Department of Environmental Protection, 
Bureau of Water Quality Protection, Division of Wastewater Management, Rachel 
Carson State Office Building, 11th Floor, 400 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 
17101-2301; Ph. (717) 787-8184. 
REGULATION(S): Title 25. Environmental 
Protection, Chapter 73. Standards for Sewage Disposal Facilities, Current 
through 28 Pa.B. 348 (17 January 1998). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: under Chapter 
73.1 are defined as devices for holding and processing human and organic kitchen 
waste employing the process of biological degradation through the action of 
microorganisms to produce a stable, humus-like material.136 
Composting toilets are permitted under Ch. 73.65. Toilets must bear the seal of 
the NSF indicating testing and approval by that agency under Standard No. 41. 
(b) The device utilized shall meet the installation specifications of the 
manufacturer and shall be operated and maintained in a manner that will preclude 
any potential pollution or health hazards. (c) When the installations of a 
recycling toilet, incinerating toilet or composting toilets is proposed for a 
new residence or establishment, an onlot sewage system or other approved method 
of sewage disposal shall be provided for treatment of washwater or excess liquid 
from the unit. For existing residences, where no alteration of the on lot system 
is proposed, a permit is not required to install a composting toilet.137 
GRAYWATER: 73.11. (c) Liquid wastes, including kitchen and laundry wastes 
and water softener backwash, shall be discharged to a treatment tank.138 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. Ch. 73.71 governs 
Experimental Sewage Systems, which may be implemented upon submittal of a 
preliminary design plan. Experimental systems may be considered for individual 
or community systems in any of the following cases: 1) To solve existing 
pollution or public health problem; 2) To overcome specific site suitability 
deficiencies, or as a substitute for systems described in this chapter on 
suitable lots; 3) To overcome specific engineering problems related to the site 
or proposed uses; and 4) To evaluate new concepts or technologies applicable to 
onlot disposal.139 
Rhode Island: Department of Environmental Management, 
Division of Groundwater and Individual Sewage Disposal Systems, ISDS Section, 
291 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908-5767; Ph. (401) 277-4700; http://www.state.ri.us/dem/regs/water/isds9-98.pdf 
or .doc
REGULATION(S): 
Chapter 12-120-002, Individual Sewage Disposal Systems (September 1998). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Regulation 12-120-002, amended September 1998, governs 
composting toilet guidelines. SD 14.00 discusses the acceptability of 
composting, or humus, toilets, stating that a humus or incinerator type toilet 
may be approved for any use where a septic tank and leaching system can be 
installed. The regulation governs two types of composting toilets: 1) large 
capacity composting toilets; and 2) heat assisted composting toilets. Large 
capacity toilets must have an interior volume greater than or equal to 64 cubic 
feet. All waste removed from large capacity composting toilets shall be disposed 
of by burial or other means approved by the director. Separate subsurface sewage 
disposal facilities must be provided for disposal of any liquid wastes from 
sinks, tubs, showers and laundry facilities (SD 14.05).140
GRAYWATER: 
The term, "graywater," shall be held to mean any wastewater discharge from a 
structure excluding the waste discharges from water closets and waste discharges 
containing human or animal excrement. The term, "sanitary sewage," shall be held 
to mean any human or animal excremental liquid or substance, any putrescible 
animal or vegetable matter and/or any garbage and filth, including, but not 
limited to, any graywater or blackwater discharged from toilets, laundry tubs, 
washing machines, sinks, and dishwashers as well as the content of septic tanks, 
cesspools, or privies.141 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. Section SD14.06 governs 
Innovative or Alternative Technology Approval Procedures (this is an extensive 
section on the procedures, that are required to install an alternative 
system).142 
South Carolina: Onsite Wastewater Management Branch, 
Division of Environmental Health, Department of Health and Environmental 
Control, 2600 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201; Ph. (803) 935-7945; FAX (803) 
935-7825; Contact: Richard Hatfield; Email: [email protected]
REGULATION(S): 
Chapter 61-56, Individual Waste Disposal Systems (27 June 1986). 
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS: Composting toilets may be used in conjunction with an approved septic 
system, for facilities that are provided with water under pressure. If site and 
soil conditions are not acceptable for an approved septic system, an alternative 
toilet may be considered, but only if the facility is not connected to water 
under pressure. 
GRAYWATER: No existing regulations. Graywater is included 
within the Department�s definition of sewage and must be managed appropriately. 
A permit applicant could elect to install separate systems to handle blackwater 
and graywater, but the same site and soil requirements apply for both systems. 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: Constructed wetlands (rock/plant filter) may be 
installed by an owner, but only in conjunction with an approved pre-treatment 
system, such as a septic tank, and an approved disposal system, such as a drain 
field. A limited number of homeowners have elected to use constructed wetlands 
systems in an effort to mitigate failing conventional systems.143 
Regulation 61-56, Individual Waste Disposal Systems, grants authority to the 
Department of Health and Environmental Control to adopt standards for 
alternative onsite treatment and disposal systems. However, no technical 
standards have been developed for graywater systems, constructed wetlands or 
composting toilets. 
South Dakota: Department of Environment and Natural 
Resources, Air and Surface Water Program, Joe Foss Building, 523 East Capitol, 
Pierre, SD 57501; Ph. (605) 773-3151; http://www.state.sd.us/state/legis/lrc/rules/7453.htm 
REGULATION(S): Chapter 74:53:01:10 (1 July 1996). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: 
Unconventional systems are only to be used when water or electrical systems are 
unavailable. Vault privies, chemical toilets, incinerator toilets, or composting 
units shall be used when a water or electrical system is not available. With the 
exception of vault privies, all unconventional systems are considered 
experimental systems, and plans and specifications shall be submitted to the 
secretary for approval as an experimental system prior to installation.144 
GRAYWATER: Under Chapter 74:03: 01:38, graywater systems are wastewater 
systems designed to recycle or treat wastes from sinks, lavatories, tubs, 
showers, washers, or other devices which do not discharge garbage or urinary or 
fecal wastes. In areas where they will not create a public nuisance or enter any 
water of the state, graywater systems are exempt from the requirement that 
normally states that wastewater is not allowed to surface on, around, or enter 
state waters. 74-03:01:75. A graywater system shall be designed in accordance 
with the following criteria: 1) All graywater treatment and recycle systems 
shall be located in accordance of the distances specified in 74:03.01:56, Table 
1; 2) Design of graywater systems shall be based on a minimum graywater flow of 
25 gallons per day per person. Three days retention time shall be provided for 
each graywater tank; 3) Graywater tanks are septic tanks and shall conform to 
the requirements for septic tanks; and 4) Effluent from graywater systems may be 
recycled for toilet use, conveyed to absorption fields, mounds or seepage pits, 
or used for irrigation of lawns and areas not intended for food production. 
Percolation tests shall be conducted and the minimum size of absorption area 
shall be determined in accordance with 74:03:01:66 to 74:03:01:69, 
inclusive.145 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Tennessee: Tennessee Department of Environment and 
Conservation, Division of Ground Water Protection, L & C Tower, 10th Floor, 
401 Church Street, Nashville, TN 37243-1540; Ph. (615) 532-0774; Contact: 
Stephen Morse, Environmental Manager. Regulation(s): Rules of Department of 
Environment and Conservation, Division of Ground Water Protection, Chapter 
1200-1-6: Regulations to Govern Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (1997). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: (2) Composting toilets must be certified by the NSF to 
be in compliance with NSF Standard 41, and be published in their Listing of 
Certified Wastewater Recycle/Reuse and Water Conservation Devices before they 
may be used for disposal of human excreta by non-water carriage methods. (c) A 
pit privy or composting toilet shall not be permitted for a facility where the 
facility has running water available unless there is an acceptable means to 
dispose of wastewater.146 
GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. However, the 
Tennessee Valley Authority does publish a set of guidelines for the design and 
construction of constructed wetlands: Tennessee Valley Authority�s General 
Design, Construction, and Operation Guidelines � Constructed Wetlands Wastewater 
Treatment Systems for Small Users Including Individual Residences, Second 
Edition, by Steiner, et al., 1993. 
Texas: Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, 
PO Box 13087, Austin, TX 78711-3087; Ph. (512) 239-4775; http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/ 
REGULATION(S): Chapter 285: On-Site Sewage Facilities (1999). 
COMPOSTING 
TOILETS: 285.2 (13) Composting toilet - A self-contained treatment and disposal 
facility constructed to decompose non-waterborne human wastes through bacterial 
action facilitated by aeration. 285.34 Other Requirements (e) Composting toilets 
will be approved by the executive director provided the system has been tested 
and certified under NSF Standard 41 147 
285.2 (27) 
GRAYWATER: wastewater from clothes washing machines, showers, 
bathtubs, handwashing lavatories, and sinks not used for the disposal of 
hazardous or toxic ingredients or waste from food preparations. Subchapter H: 
285.80. Treatment and Disposal of Graywater. New construction or modification to 
an existing graywater conveyance, treatment, storage or disposal system outside 
of a structure or building must be carried out in accordance with provisions of 
this chapter and any established requirements of the permitting authority. Any 
new construction or modification to an existing graywater reuse or reuse 
conveyance system associated with a structure or building must be carried out in 
accordance with the requirements of the State Board of Plumbing Examiners.148 
Graywater must be treated through a septic system first.149 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: Permitted under 285.32C. Non-standard systems include, 
but are not limited to, all forms of the activated sludge process, rotating 
biological contactors, recirculating sand filters, and submerged rock biological 
filters (a fancy name for constructed wetlands). Non standard systems submitted 
for review will be analyzed on basic engineering principles and the criteria 
established in Chapter 285. These systems will be reviewed as one of a kind, 
site-specific installations. Whether blackwater or graywater, all domestic 
water-carried discharges have to go through a septic tank first before going 
through a wetland system. After passing through the wetland system, it must 
still go through a drainfield.150 
Utah: Department of Environmental Quality, Division of 
Water Quality, 288 North 1460 West, PO Box 144870, Salt Lake City, UT 
84114-4870; Ph. (801) 538-6146; http://www.eq.state.ut.us/eqwq/wqrules.htm
REGULATION(S): 
If they existed, they may be covered under R317-502-3, Individual Wastewater 
Disposal Systems (1993).
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: 
No existing regulations. R317-502-3. does speak to alternative systems. The 
drainage system of each dwelling, building or premises covered herein shall 
receive all wastewater (including but not limited to bathroom, kitchen, and 
laundry wastes) as required by the Uniform Plumbing Code and shall have a 
connection to a public sewer except when such sewer is not available or 
practicable for use, in which case connection shall be made as follows: 3.1 To 
an individual wastewater disposal system found to be adequate and constructed in 
accordance with requirements stated herein. 3.2 To any other type of wastewater 
disposal system acceptable under R317-1, R317-3, R317-5, or R317-560. 
R317-502-20. Experimental and Alternate Disposal Methods. 20.1 Where unusual 
conditions exist, experimental methods of wastewater disposal may be employed 
provided they are acceptable to the Division and to the local health department 
having jurisdiction. 20.2 When considering proposals for experimental individual 
wastewater disposal systems, the Division shall not be restricted by this rule 
provided that: A. The experimental system proposed is attempting to resolve an 
existing pollution or public health hazard, or when the experimental system 
proposal is for new construction, it has been predetermined that an acceptable 
back-up disposal system will be installed in event of failure of the experiment; 
B. The proposal for an experimental individual wastewater disposal system must 
be in the name of and bear the signature of the person who will own the system; 
and C. The person proposing to utilize an experimental system has the 
responsibility to maintain, correct, or replace the system in event of failure 
of the experiment. 20.3 When sufficient, successful experience is established 
with experimental individual wastewater disposal systems, the Division may 
designate them as approved alternate individual wastewater disposal systems. 
Following this approval of alternate individual wastewater disposal systems, the 
Division will adopt rules governing their use.151 
Vermont: Agency of Natural Resources, Department of 
Environmental Conservation, Wastewater Management Division,103 South Main 
Street, The Sewing Building, Waterbury, VT 05671-0401; Ph. (802) 241-3834; 
Contact: Bonnie J. Loomer-Hostelter; Email: [email protected] 
REGULATION(S): If they existed, they would most likely be found under 
Environmental Protection Rules, Chapter 1, Small Scale Wastewater Treatment and 
Disposal Rules (8 August 1996). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER, CONSTRUCTED 
WETLANDS: No existing regulations. Innovative systems are regulated under 
Chapter 1, Small Scale Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Rules. Innovative 
Systems are governed under subchapter 2, 1-203. Alternative systems are allowed 
in Vermont only if a back-up, in ground conventional (septic) system is 
installed.152 
Constructed wetlands as treatment units could be approved if the design was 
sufficiently reliable given the extended winter season in Vermont. However, for 
all practical purposes, the discharge from a constructed wetland unit could not 
be discharged directly into surface waters under these regulations but would 
have to be discharged to a subsurface leachfield or possibly a sprayfield 
system.153 
Virginia: State of Virginia, Office of Environmental 
Health Services, Main Street Station, Suite 117, PO Box 2448, Richmond, VA 
23218-2448; Ph. (804) 225-4030; http://www.vdh.state.va.us/onsite/regulations/sew-vac4.htm; 
Contact: Donald Alexander; Email: [email protected]
REGULATION(S): 
12 VAC 5-610-980. 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Article 6. 12 VAC 5-610-970. 3. 
Composting toilets are devices which incorporate an incline plane, baffles, or 
other suitable devices onto which human excreta is deposited for the purpose of 
allowing aerobic decomposition of the excreta. The decomposing material is 
allowed to accumulate to form a humus type material. These units serve as both 
toilet and disposal devices. Composting toilets are located interior to a 
dwelling. All materials removed from a composting privy shall be buried. Compost 
material shall not be placed in vegetable gardens or on the ground surface. All 
composting toilets must be certified by the National Sanitation Foundation as 
meeting the current Standard 41. 
GRAYWATER: No existing regulations. 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: 12VAC5-640-370. Constructed wetlands are considered 
experimental and will be considered on a case by case basis by the department. 
All constructed wetland systems shall be designed to meet or exceed 10 mg/l BOD5 
and 10 mg/l suspended solids. Experimental systems are exactly that: 
experimental. Only the results of testing will determine if they will become an 
approved method of treating wastewater. Some systems can solve site and soil 
problems that a conventional septic system cannot handle; however, no system can 
overcome all of the problems on some difficult sites. The Division is looking to 
find safe, sanitary and economical solutions for every site but some problems 
still lack a viable solution. In short, not every site "percs" and many, if not 
all, alternative technologies are more expensive than a conventional gravel 
system. The Department urges prospective buyers to get an approval letter or 
construction permit before buying property you wish to build on.154 
Washington: Department of Health, Community 
Environmental Health Programs LD-11, Building 2, Airdustrial Center, PO Box 
47826, Olympia, WA 47826; Ph. (360) 236-4501 or 3011 (Environmental Health 
Programs direct line); http://access.wa.gov/government/awlaws.asp; 
Contact: Jen Haywood. 
REGULATION(S): WAC 246-272; Technical Review 
Committee, Guidelines for Composting Toilets (1994); Recommended Standards and 
Guidance for Water Conserving On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems (1999). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: I. The Technical Review Committee for On-Site Sewage 
Disposal, established under WAC 246-272-040, has reviewed the available 
literature on composting toilets. The committee has determined that composting 
toilets could be an approved method of sewage treatment if use is consistent 
with the guidelines herein. Composting toilets are not designed to handle the 
total wastewater volume generated in the home. The units are usually designed to 
accommodate fecal and urinary wastes together with small amounts of organic 
kitchen wastes. The remaining wastewater originating from bathing facilities, 
sinks and washing machines (graywater) must therefore be collected, treated and 
disposed of in an approved manner. Because there generally will be additional 
wastewater to dispose of, composting toilets are restricted. II. Composting 
toilets are any device designed to store and compost by aerobic bacterial 
digestion human urine and feces which are non-water carried, together with the 
necessary venting, piping, electrical and/or mechanical components.155 
Section A. Waterless Toilets/WLTs. Composting - Unit designed to store and 
compost (by microbial digestion) human urine and feces. These units are commonly 
designed to accommodate fecal and urinary wastes together with small amounts of 
organic material to assist their function. No water is used for transport of 
urine or feces within these units. They may be small enough to sit on the floor 
of a bathroom or large enough to require space below the floor to house the 
storage/composting chamber.156 
The units may be used to replace private privies or chemical toilets, including 
such applications as highway weigh stations, warehouses, port facilities, 
construction sites, residences, etc., may be used in dwellings where water 
supply is not available or provided (example: mountain cabins), or may be used 
in dwellings where an on-site sewage system is or can be provided for disposal 
of graywater. Where non-discharging blackwater treatment systems are used, a 50% 
reduction in septic tank volume and a 40% reduction in the daily hydraulic 
loading to be used in sizing the grey water disposal mechanism (drainfield, 
mound system, etc.) are recommended from standard design requirements. The units 
may be used in facilities where a public sewage system is provided for disposal 
of graywater.157 
The devices shall be capable of accommodating full or part-time usage without 
accumulating excess liquids when operated at the design rated capacity. 
Continuous forced ventilations (e.g., electric fan or wind-driven turbovent) of 
the storage or treatment chamber must be provided to the outside.158 
Components in which biological activity is intended to occur shall be insulated, 
heated, or otherwise protected from low temperature conditions, in order to 
maintain the stored wastes at temperatures conducive to aerobic biological 
decomposition: 20 to 50 degrees C (68 to 130 degrees F). The device shall be 
capable of maintaining wastes within a moisture range of 40 to 75%. The device 
shall be designed to prevent the deposition of inadequately treated wastes near 
parts used for the removal of stabilized end products. The solid end product 
(i.e., waste humus) shall be stabilized to meet NSF criteria when ready for 
removal at the clean out port.1. Performance Standards. 1.2.1.2. Toilets of 
proprietary design must be tested according to the NSF International Standard 
No. 41 (May 1983).159 
The maintenance of carbon-to-nitrogen ratios of approximately 20:1 are 
recommended. Consequently, additions of vegetable matter, wood chips, sawdust, 
etc., can be helpful. Removal of composted and liquid materials shall be done in 
a manner approved with the local health departments and as a minimum, shall 
comply with Guidelines for Sludge Disposal, Washington Department of Health, 
1954. Persons finding it necessary to handle this material shall take adequate 
protective sanitation measures, and should wash their hands carefully with soap 
and hot water. Compost shall not be used directly on root crops or on 
low-growing vegetables, fruits or berries which are used for human consumption; 
however, this general restriction does not apply if stabilized compost is 
applied 12 months prior to planting. Where it can be shown that sludge will not 
come in direct contact with the food products, such as in orchards or where 
stabilized sludges are further treated for sterilization or pathogen reduction, 
less restrictive periods may be applicable. Performance monitoring shall be 
performed on composting toilets permitted under this guideline. Permits should 
include a statement indicating the permitter�s right of entry and/or right to 
inspect. The frequency of monitoring shall be: 1) Two years after installation; 
2) Four years after installation; and 3) in response to a complaint or problem. 
Non-water carried sewage treatment units are presently acknowledged to be a 
method of sewage disposal under the Uniform Plumbing Code, but variances to use 
the devices might be required by local administrative authorities. Variances 
must therefore be obtained from these departments together with approval of the 
local health department before the installation can be allowed. The Revised Code 
of Washington (RCW) 70.118 gives local boards of health the authority to waive 
applicable sections of local building/plumbing codes when they might prohibit 
the use of an alternative method for correcting a failure.160 
GRAYWATER: Section B. Graywater systems are virtually the same as 
combined-wastewater on-site sewage systems. Gravity flow graywater systems 
consist of a septic tank and subsurface drainfield. Pressurized graywater 
systems consist of a septic tank, a pump chamber or vault, and a subsurface 
drainfield. Other types of alternative systems, pre-treatment methods and 
drainfield design and materials options may also be incorporated in graywater 
systems. The primary distinction between a graywater system and a combined 
wastewater system is the lower volume of wastewater. As a result, the size of 
the septic tank and subsurface drainfield is smaller compared to a system that 
treats and disposes all the household wastewater (combined) through a septic 
tank and drainfield. In addition to the water conserving nature of waterless 
toilets/graywater systems, the graywater system drainfield can be designed and 
located to reuse graywater for subsurface irrigation. Drainfield designs 
(methods and materials) which place the distributed wastewater in close 
proximity to the root zone of turf grasses, plants, shrubs, and trees may be 
used to enhance the reuse potential of graywater as it is treated in the soil, 
assuring public health protection. When graywater systems are designed, 
installed, operated and maintained to maximize their potential as a graywater 
reuse irrigation system, various items should be considered. Among these are 
plant water and nutrient needs and limits, salt tolerances, depths of root 
zones, etc. The development of a landscape plan is recommended. Graywater 
treatment and disposal/reuse systems must provide treatment and disposal at 
least equal to that provided by on-site system. Graywater on-site systems may be 
used with new residential construction and existing dwellings. Internal 
household plumbing may be modified (consistent with local plumbing code) to 
route any portion of the household graywater to the graywater on-site sewage 
system. Graywater on-site sewage systems may be located anywhere conventional or 
alternative on-site sewage systems are allowed. Site conditions, vertical 
separation, pretreatment requirements, setbacks and other location requirements 
are the same as described in Chapter 246-272 WAC. 2.4 Graywater on-sites sewage 
systems must provide permanent, year-round treatment and disposal of graywater 
unless this is already provided by an approved on-site system or connection to 
public sewer. Graywater on-site systems must be installed with an approved 
waterless toilet or other means of sewage treatment for blackwater approved by 
the local health officer. Graywater systems are intended to treat and dispose 
�residential strength� graywater. Graywater exceeding residential strength must 
receive pre-treatment to at least residential strength levels. Design 
requirements for graywater on-site sewage systems, unless otherwise noted, are 
the same as requirements for combined wastewater systems presented in Chapter 
WAC 246-272. Graywater may be used for subsurface irrigation of trees (including 
fruit trees) shrubs, flowers, lawns and other ground covers but must not be used 
for watering of food crops of vegetable gardens, any type of surface or spray 
irrigation, to flush toilets/urinals or to wash wall, sidewalks or driveways. 
The disposal component of a graywater treatment system may be designed to 
enhance the potential for subsurface irrigation. The efficiency of graywater 
reuse via subsurface irrigation depends upon the proximity of the drainfield to 
the root-zone of plants, shrubs, trees or turf and the method of distribution. 
This may be enhanced by: Installing narrower-than-normal trenches shallow in the 
soil profile (state rules do not have a minimum trench width; minimum trench 
depth is six inches). Gravel and pipe size may limit how narrow a �conventional� 
trench may be. It is recommended that at least two inches of gravel be provided 
between the sides of the distribution pipe and trench sidewalls. Small gravel 
size (no less that 3/4 inch) is recommended for narrow trenches; using pressure 
distribution to reduce the height of the trench cross section to enable shallow 
trench placement and to assure even distribution; and using subsurface drip 
irrigation (SDS) technology for shallow system placement and equal distribution 
in close proximity to plant, shrub, turf and trees roots. Some agronomic issues 
that should be considered with graywater reuse are the water needs and salt 
tolerances of plants to be irrigated. In many cases, the volume of graywater 
generated may not meet the needs of the landscape plantings. If potable water is 
used to augment graywater for irrigation within the same distribution network, a 
method of backflow prevention approved by the local health officer is required. 
In some geographical and climatic areas, the frost-protection needs of an SDS or 
a conventional drainfield trench system may be counter-productive to effective 
graywater reuse via subsurface irrigation (distribution piping may be too deep 
for plant root systems). In these areas, local health officers may permit 
seasonal systems where year-round treatment and disposal is provided by an 
approved sewage system and seasonal subsurface irrigation with graywater is 
provided by a separate system with a shallow drainfield or SDS. Where seasonal 
systems are allowed, various administrative and design issues must be addressed. 
Both drainfields must meet state and local rule requirements, including soil 
application rates, to assure treatment and disposal at least equal to that 
provided by conventional gravity or pressure on-site sewage systems according to 
Chapter 246-272 WAC. 3.4.2 Municipal sewer systems may provide year-round sewage 
disposal in conjunction with seasonal graywater treatment and disposal systems 
designed to enhance graywater reuse via subsurface irrigation. Seasonal 
graywater treatment and disposal/reuse systems must include a three-way diverter 
valve to easily divert graywater to the year-round disposal field or sewer when 
needed (when freezing is a problem). Local health officers may permit �laundry 
wastewater only� graywater disposal or reuse systems for single family 
residences for either year-round or seasonal use. Graywater systems limited only 
to laundry wastewater (including laundry sinks) may differ from other graywater 
systems according to the following: A single compartment retention/pump tank, 
with a minimum liquid capacity of 40 gallons may be used in lieu of the tank 
recommendations. The tank must be warranted by the manufacturer for use with 
wastewater and meet requirements listed in Appendix G of the 1997 edition of the 
Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Minimum design flow for �laundry wastewater only� 
systems (for the purpose of drainfield sizing) must be based on the number of 
bedrooms in the residence and must be no less than 30% of the minimum graywater 
system design flows. A wastewater filter or screen (with a maximum size opening 
of 1/16 inch) must be provided in an accessible location conducive to routine 
maintenance. Homeowners are responsible for proper operation and maintenance of 
their graywater systems. Specific requirements will vary according to the county 
where the system is located and the specific type of system. See your local 
health jurisdiction for local system O & M requirements.161 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
West Virginia: Secretary of State, Administrative Law 
Division, State Capitol, 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Building 1, Suite 157K, 
Charleston, WV 25305-0770; Ph. (304) 558-6000; FAX (304) 558-0900; http://www.state.wv.us/sos; Email: [email protected]; 
Contact: Leah Powell. 
REGULATION(S): Title 64, Interpretive Rules Board of 
Health, Series 47, Sewage Treatment and Collection System Design Standards 
(1983). 
COMPOSTING TOILETS: Interpretive Rule 16-1, Series VII, 10.1. 
Composting toilets may be utilized only in conjunction with an approved 
graywater treatment and disposal system. 10.2 The design and construction of a 
composting toilet must meet the requirements of NSF Standard 41. 
GRAYWATER: 
12.1 Those houses served by a graywater disposal system must have a house sewer 
of not more than two inches in diameter. 12.2. Houses served by graywater 
disposal systems shall not have garbage disposal units. 12.3 Manufactured 
graywater disposal systems must be approved by the director. 12.4. 
Non-commercial graywater disposal systems shall consist of the following: 
12.4.1. A soil absorption field designed on the basis of a 30% reduction in 
water usage, and constructed in accordance with the design requirements for the 
standard soil absorption fields. 12.4.2. A septic tank sized according to the 
following room sizes and minimum capacities: 2 rooms, 500 gallons; 3 to 4 rooms, 
750 gallons; 5 or more rooms, add 210 gallons for each additional bedroom.162 
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Wisconsin: Department of Commerce, Bureau of Program 
Management, 715 Post Road, Stevens Point, WI 54481-6456; Ph. (715) 345-5334; FAX 
(715) 345-5269; http://www.commerce.state.wi.us/sb-comm83revisionsandarticles.htm; 
http://www.legis.state.wi.us/rsb/code/comm/comm083.pdf; 
Contact: Jim Klass, Ph. (608) 266-9292 (Water Regulation).
REGULATION(S): If 
they existed, they may be found in Wisconsin Comm083. 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, 
GRAYWATER SYSTEMS, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Wyoming: Department of Environmental Quality, Water 
Quality Division, Herschler Building, 122 West 25th Street, Cheyenne, WY 82002; 
Ph. (307) 777-7075; http://deq.state.wy.us/wqd/w&wwpage.htm; 
Contact: Larry Robinson; mailto:[email protected]
REGULATION(S): 
If they existed, regulations would most likely be found in Chapter XI, Part D, 
Septic Tank and/or Soil Absorption System, Water Quality Rules and Regulations 
in the Innovative and Alternative section. 
COMPOSTING TOILETS, GRAYWATER 
SYSTEMS, CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS: No existing regulations. 
Canada: Systems would be governed by the provincial Ministries of Health (municipal affairs and health, similar to our county government in the US). Check your local agency.
Other information sources: National Small Flows Clearinghouse: West Virginia University, PO Box 6064, Morgantown, WV 26506-6064; Ph. (304) 294-4191; 1-800-624-8301; National Sanitation Foundation: NSF Standard 41: Nonliquid Saturated Treatment Systems: http://www.nsf.org/
ENDNOTES (Appendix 3)
1. Memorandum from James M. Coles, Deputy Director. Division of Community Environmental Protection, State of Alabama Department of Public Health. 7 December 1998.
2. Alabama State Board of Health. 7 December 1998. Rules of State Board of Health Bureau of Environmental Services Division of Community Environmental Protection. Chapter 420-3-1, Onsite Sewage Disposal. Draft. p. 126.
3. Alabama State Board of Health, Bureau of Environmental Services, Division of Community Environmental Protection. 23 December 1998. Rules of State Board of Health Bureau of Environmental Services Division of Community Environmental Protection. Chapter 420-3-1, Onsite Sewage Disposal and Subdivision-Onsite Sewage Systems, Water Supplies and Solid Waste Management. p. 6.
4. Alabama State Board of Health. 7 December 1998. Rules of State Board of Health Bureau of Environmental Services Division of Community Environmental Protection. Chapter 420-3-1, Onsite Sewage Disposal. Draft. p. 126.
5. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). Bulletin No. 12: Minimum Requirements for the Design and Installation of Septic Tank Systems and Alternative On-site Disposal Systems. June 1989. p. 65.
7. Arizona Administrative Code. Department of Environmental Quality, Water Pollution Control. Article 7. Regulations for the Reuse of Wastewater. p. 14, 15, 17.
8. Knight, R. L, Randall, R. and M. Girts. May 1995. Arizona Guidance Manual for Constructed Wetlands for Water Quality Improvement. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. p. 8-14.
9. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. June 1989. Engineering Bulleting No. 12: Minimum Requirements for the Design and Installation of Septic Tank Systems and Alternative On-Site Disposal Systems. p.64.
12. Environmental Program Services, Division of Environmental Health Protection. April 1993. Alternate Systems Manual. Arkansas Department of Health. p. 1.
15. Carl J. Graves, R.S., Sanitarian, Arkansas Department of Health. Personal communication. 25 February 1999. 12. Environmental Program Services, Division of Environmental Health Protection. April 1993. Alternate Systems Manual. Arkansas Department of Health. p. 18.
20. State of California. Building Standards Commission. 28 September 1997. Appendix G. Graywater Systems. Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Title 24, Part 5, California Administrative Code. p. 79-85.
21. Colorado Department of Health. 1994. Guidelines on Individual Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 6.
22. Colorado Department of Health. 1994. Guidelines on Individual Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 46.
28. Connecticut Public Health Code. Regulations and Technical Standards for Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems. Section 19-13-B100, Section 19-13-B103, Technical Standards, Section 19-13-B104. January 1997. p. 12.
32. State of Delaware, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. 31 January 1995. Regulations Governing the Design, Installation and Operation of On-Site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems. Forward.
33. David Hammonds, Florida Bureau of Water and Onsite Sewage Programs. Personal conversation. 25 February 1999.
34. State of Florida, Department of Health. 3 March 1998. Chapter 64E-6, Florida Administrative Code, Standards for On-Site Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems. p. 20.
36. http://www.leg.state.fl.us/citizen/documents/statutes/1998/ch0381/sec0065_.htm 5 April 1999. p. 1.
37. State of Florida, Department of Health. 3 March 1998. Chapter 64E-6, Florida Administrative Code, Standards for On-Site Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems. p. 31.
38. Florida Administrative Code. 13 February 1997. Standards for On-Site Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems, Chapter 10D-6.
39. National Small Flows Clearinghouse. 1997. Graywater Systems from the State Regulations. WWBLRG24. p. 19, 20, 23-24.
40. David Hammonds, Florida Bureau of Water and Onsite Sewage Programs. Personal conversation. 25 February 1999.
41. State of Georgia. 20 February 1998. Chapter 290-5-59. Special Onsite Sewage Management Systems. p. D-18.
42. State of Georgia. 20 February 1998 Chapter 290-5-59. Special Onsite Sewage Management Systems. p. 2.
44. Corbitt, Bill. 16 July 1997. Aquatic Sewage Treatment Systems in Georgia, Past and Present. Georgia Environmentalist. Georgia Environmental Health Association. p. 8-14.
45. Hawaii Department of Health. 30 August 1991. Amendment and Compilation of Chapter 11-62. p. 62-4.
50. National Small Flows Clearinghouse. 1997. Graywater Systems from the State Regulations. WWBLRG24. p. 25.
51. Hawaii Department of Health. 30 August 1991. Amendment and Compilation of Chapter 11-62. p. 62-23.
53. State of Idaho. 993. IDAPA 16. Title 01, Chapter 03. Rules for Individual/Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 16-8.
54. Idaho Division of Environmental Quality. 8 January 1999. Technical Guidance Manual for Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 33.
55. Barry Burnell, Idaho Division of Environmental Quality. Personal communication. 8 January 1999.
57. Idaho Division of Environmental Quality. 25 October 1996. Technical Guidance Manual for Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 1-4.
58. Barry Burnell, Idaho Division of Environmental Quality. Personal communication. 8 January 1999.
59. Illinois Department of Public Health. 1996. Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act and Code. p. 54.
62. Tim Decker, Indiana State Department of Health. Personal communication. 30 April 1999.
63. Iowa Chapter 69: On-Site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems. 567--69.11(455B) Constructed wetlands section.
64. Kansas Administrative Regulations. 1 January 1973. Chapter 25-5-9. Variance. p. 126.
65. State of Kansas Department of Health and Environment. March 1997. Bulletin 4-2: Minimum Standards for Design and Construction of Onsite Wastewater Systems. p. 1.
66. Kentucky Cabinet for Human Resources. September 1989. On-Site Sewage Disposal Systems Regulations. 902 KAR 10:081 and 902 KAR 10:085. p. 25.
69. Department for Public Health. August 1997. Kentucky Public Health Homeowner�s Manual. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 29
70. Teda Boudreaux. Louisiana Department of Health. Personal communication 3 May 1999.
71. Department of Human Services. 20 January 1998. Maine Subsurface Waste Water Disposal Rules. 144A CMR 214. p. 15-1, 15-2.
73. Jay Prager, Acting Chief, Division of Residential Sanitation, Maryland Department of the Environment. 26 October 1990. Innovative/Alternative Section. Memorandum: Guidance on Waterless Toilet Systems. p. 1.
75. Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Executive Office of Environmental Affairs. Department of Environmental Protection. 4 March 1998. 310 CMR 15.000: Title 5: Innovative and Alternative Subsurface Sewage Disposal Technologies Approved for Use in Massachusetts. p.1,9. Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Executive Office of Environmental Affairs. Department of Environmental Protection. 16 April 1998. The Use of Composting Toilets in Massachusetts. p. 1-4.
77. Ruth Alfasso, Graywater Piloting Coordinator, Massachusetts DEP. Personal communication. 6 January 1999.
79. Rick Fallardeau, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. Personal communication. April 1999.
80. Michigan Department of Public Health. July 1986. Guidelines for Acceptable Innovative or Alternative Waste Treatment Systems and Acceptable Graywater Systems. p. 1.
81. Ibid. Attachment A. Act No. 421. Public Acts of 1980. Approved by Governor. 13 January 1981. p. 1.
83. Michigan Department of Public Health. July 1986. Guidelines for Acceptable Innovative or Alternative Waste Treatment Systems and Acceptable Graywater Systems. p. 2.
88. Ibid Attachment C. Act 230, Public Acts of 1972, as amended Michigan Construction Code. p. 1.
89. Rick Fallardeau, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. Personal communication. April 1999.
90. McGeachy, Ben. date unknown. A Review of Subsurface Flow Constructed Wetlands Literature and Suggested Design and Construction Practices. Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.
91. Roberta Wirth, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Personal communication. 14 January 1999.
92. Minnesota Rules. 3 November 1998.. Chapter 7080.0910. Alternative and Experimental Systems.
94. Mississippi Individual On-Site Wastewater Disposal System Law. 1996. Chapter 41-67. MSDH 300-Section 02A-03.
95. Ibid. MSDH 300-Section 02A-XIII-01.
96. Ibid. MSDH 300-Section 02A-VII-01.
97. Missouri Department of Health. 1995. Missouri Laws Accompanied by Department of Health Rules Governing On-site Sewage Systems. Missouri Laws for On-Site Disposal Systems. p. 1.
98. Missouri Department of Health. 1995 Missouri Laws Accompanied by Department of Health Rules Governing On-site Sewage Systems. Title 19- Department of Health, Division 20-Environmental Health & Epidemiology, Chapter 3- General Sanitation. p. 37.
101. Montana Department of Health and Environmental Sciences. Circular WQB 5. Minimum Design Standards for On-Site Alternative Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems. p. 4.
103. Nevada Adopted Regulation R 129-98. February 1998. p. 59-61.
104. http://www.state.nh.us/gencourt/ols/rules/env-ws.htm
105. http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dwq/rules.htm p. 11.
110. Brian Schall, New Mexico Environment Department. Personal communication. 1999.
113. New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board. October 1997. Liquid Waste Disposal Regulations. p. 6.
114. New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board. October 1997. Liquid Waste Disposal Regulations. p 38.
115. New York State Department of Health. 1996. Individual Residential Wastewater Treatment Systems Design Handbook.
119. State of New York. 1 December 1990. Appendix 75-A. Wastewater Treatment Standards - Individual Household Systems. Statutory Authority,: Public Health Law, 201(1)(1), New York. p. 31.
122. Ben Pierson, New York State Department of Health. Personal communication. 6 April 1999.
123. National Small Flows Clearinghouse. September 1997. Alternative Toilets from the State Regulations. WWBKRG23. p. 53-54.
124. Joni Cardin, North Carolina Division of Water Quality. Personal communication. 7 January 1999.
125. State of North Dakota. 1996. Chapter 62-03-16. Individual Sewage Treatment Systems for Homes and Other Establishments Where Public Sewage Systems are not Available. p. 249.
127. Ohio Department of Health. 1 July 1977. Chapter 3701-29-01 to 3701-29-21. Household Sewage Disposal Rules. p. 21.
128. Oklahoma Chapter 640, Individual and Small Public Sewage Disposal. 1998. p. 12-13.
129. Oregon Chapter 447.115. 1997. http://landru.leg.state.or.us/ors/447.htmstate.or.us/ors/447.htm 21 January 1999.
130. Oregon Chapter 918-790-0010. 1998. http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/OARS_900/OAR_918/918_770.htm
131. Oregon Chapter 918-770-0050. 1998. Plumbing Product Approval. http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/OARS_900/OAR_918/918_770.htm
132. Oregon Chapter 447.115. 1997. http://landru.leg.state.or.us/ors/447.htm 21 January 1999.
133. National Small Flows Clearinghouse. September 1997. Greywater Systems from the State Regulations. p. 36.
135. Terry Swisher, Oregon Chief Plumbing Inspector. Personal communication. 14 January 1999.
136. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 17 January 1998. Pennsylvania Code. Title 25. Environmental Protection. p. 73-6.
140. Rhode Island. September 1998. Chapter 12-120-002, Individual Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 40-42.
143. Richard Hatfield, South Carolina Onsite Wastewater Management Branch. Personal communication. 7 January 1999.
144. http://landru.leg.state.or.us/ors/447.htm 7 January 1999.
145. National Small Flows Clearinghouse. September 1997. Greywater Systems from the State Regulations. p. 39-41.
146. Tennessee Rules of Department of Environment and Conservation, Division of Ground Water Protection. 1997. Chapter 1200-1-6: Regulations to Govern Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems. p. 59.
147. Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission. 8 January 1999. Chapter 285, On-Site Sewage Facilities. p. 2, 19.
149. Ken Graber, Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission. Personal communication. 4 April 1999.
151. http://www.eq.state.ut.us/eqwq/wqrules.htm 6 January 1999.
152. Bonnie Loomer-Hostetler, Information Services Chief of the Vermont Wastewater Management Division. Personal communication. 7 January 1999.
153. John Akielaszek, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation. Personal communication. 12 January 1999.
154. http://www.vdh.state.va.us/onsite/text/appr-sys.htm
155. Technical Review Committee. June 1994. Guidelines for Composting Toilets. Washington State Department of Health. p. 2.
156. Water Conserving On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems. 5 April 1999. Washington State Department of Health. p. 3.
157. Technical Review Committee. June 1994. Guidelines for Composting Toilets. Washington State Department of Health. p. 1.
158. Water Conserving On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems. 5 April 1999. Washington State Department of Health. p. 2.
160. Technical Review Committee. June 1994. Guidelines for Composting Toilets. Washington State Department of Health. p. 3, 4, 5.
161. Technical Review Committee. June 1994. Guidelines for Composting Toilets. Washington State Department of Health. p. 19, 20, 22, 23.
162. West Virginia Board of Health. 1983. Interpretive Rule 16-1. Series VII. Part V. Sec. 10.0. p. 135.
Source: The Humanure Handbook. Jenkins 
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