Greywater reuse in Maryland is a practical way to save water and reduce utility bills, but it must follow specific rules. Here’s what you need to know:

• What You Can Do: Use greywater for subsurface irrigation of lawns, gardens, and ornamental plants. Systems must prevent human contact and pooling.
• What’s Not Allowed: Surface irrigation of edible crops, spray irrigation, and storing greywater for over 24 hours.
• Daily Limits: Single-family homes can reuse up to 250 gallons, while multi-family units are capped at 100 gallons per unit.
• System Requirements: Systems must ensure 2 inches of soil coverage, maintain safe distances (100 feet from wells, 50 feet from property lines), and include proper labeling.
• Permits: A permit from your local health department is required. Submit your system design, pay fees, and pass inspections.

Costs: Installation costs $800–$2,500, plus $200–$500 for permits. Maintenance runs around $100–$200 annually, with a payback period of 2–4 years.

Greywater systems are ideal for homes with large landscapes and higher water utility rates but may not suit smaller properties or areas with strict HOA rules. Always consult local guidelines before starting.

Grey Water Systems: Answering Your Most Common Questions

Allowed Uses and Limits

In Maryland, reusing greywater for residential landscaping is allowed but comes with specific guidelines on what’s permitted and what’s not.

Approved Uses

• Irrigating lawns and gardens with subsurface systems
• Using drip irrigation for trees and ornamental plants
• Underground watering for non-edible landscaping
• Operating landscape water features that prevent human contact

Restricted Uses

• Surface irrigation of edible crops
• Spray irrigation methods
• Any application involving human contact
• Storing greywater for more than 24 hours
• Combining greywater with rainwater collection systems

Quantity Limits

The amount of greywater you can use depends on household size:

• Single-family homes: Up to 250 gallons per day
• Multi-family units: Maximum of 100 gallons per unit per day

System Requirements

Greywater systems must meet the following safety and setup standards:

• Irrigation lines must have at least 2 inches of soil coverage
• Maintain a 100-foot distance from wells and water sources
• Keep a 50-foot setback from property lines
• Prevent pooling or runoff
• Clearly label all system components

Note: These rules are for residential properties only. Commercial systems require separate permits and must follow additional regulations.

System Requirements

Permits for Installation

Once you’ve completed your system design and maintenance plans, the next step is to secure the required permits.

You’ll need to get a permit from your local health department before installing a residential greywater system. The application process generally involves:

• Submitting your system design and site layout plans
• Including component specifications (and soil test results, if needed)
• Paying review fees
• Passing both installation and final inspections

Processing times can differ depending on your county. Be sure to consult your local health department for detailed guidelines and timelines.

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Pros and Cons

Thinking about installing a residential greywater system in Maryland? Here’s a closer look at the upsides and downsides to help you decide:

Pros

• Save up to 250 gallons of water daily under Maryland’s single-family usage guidelines.
• Cut household water bills by 15-20% by reusing water for landscape irrigation.
• Reduce demand on municipal water systems, which helps conserve resources.
• Minimize stormwater runoff and lower erosion risks on your property.

Cons

• Installation costs range from $800 to $2,500 for basic systems.
• County permits can add $200 to $500 to your upfront expenses.
• Regular upkeep is required to comply with Maryland’s 24-hour storage limit for greywater.
• Systems are restricted to subsurface irrigation only, limiting some potential uses.

Cost-Benefit Overview

Here’s what you should weigh:

• Payback period: Expect 2-4 years, depending on your water usage.
• Maintenance costs: Around $100-$200 per year, mainly for filter replacements.
• Water savings: Reduce outdoor water use by 30-50%.
• Property value: Water-efficient features may boost your home’s appeal.

Best Fit

These systems are ideal for:

• Homes with large landscaping needs.
• Properties already planning to upgrade irrigation systems.
• Households willing to commit to regular system maintenance.
• Areas where water utility rates are higher.

When It’s Not a Good Option

Avoid installing a greywater system if:

• Your property is smaller than 1/4 acre.
• You have a high water table, which can complicate system use.
• Your home requires extensive plumbing changes to accommodate the system.
• You live in an area with strict HOA rules that limit modifications.

Getting Started

Ready to save money and make a positive impact? Work with a professional installer to bring your greywater reuse plans to life. Reach out to Pro Landscapes MD at (410) 266-9664 for a free consultation and custom system proposal. Their team takes care of everything – design, permits, installation, and maintenance – while ensuring compliance with Maryland regulations.

Key Points

Here’s what Maryland homeowners need to know:

• Permits and requirements: Reach out to your local health department to get the necessary permits and understand county-specific guidelines before starting installation.
• Greywater usage: Use greywater only for subsurface irrigation of non-edible landscaping. Avoid storing it for more than 24 hours.
• Setback rules: Ensure proper distances – 100 feet from wells, 50 feet from property lines, and a minimum of 2 inches of soil coverage over the system.
• Usage limits: Single-family homes can use up to 250 gallons per day, while multi-family units are limited to 100 gallons per unit.
• System components: Install systems with clear labeling and backflow prevention measures to ensure safety.
• Costs vs. savings: Installation typically costs $800–$2,500, with a payback period of 2–4 years due to 30–50% water savings.

FAQs

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