Greywater use in the home
This page has information for householders on the use of greywater at home.
Greywater is the wastewater from the:
- hand basin
- shower
- bath
- spa bath
- washing machine
- laundry tub
- kitchen sink
- dishwasher.
Because greywater has already been used, it may contain substances harmful to public health and the environment.
Guidelines
The Greywater Use Guidelines will help you understand safe use of greywater in the home.
It covers:
- greywater use and system design
- diversion of untreated greywater
- storage
- treatment
- distribution
- maintenance of greywater systems
- your obligations with plumbing
- public health considerations
- environmental considerations
- legislation.
Download the Greywater Use Guidelines for residential properties in Canberra [PDF 1.2 MB].
Blackwater
This guide does not address blackwater use. Blackwater is the wastewater from the toilet, urinal and bidet.
Blackwater reuse poses significant health risks and requires biological or chemical treatment and disinfection such as through an onsite wastewater system before to any reuse.