SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6509

BYSenators Barr and Talmadge

Authorizing cities, towns, and counties to enact water-efficient landscaping ordinances.

Senate Committee on Agriculture

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 19, 1990

Senate Staff:Bob Lee (786-7404)

AS OF JANUARY 18, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Over the next 50 years, the population in the Puget Sound region is expected to nearly double.  During the 1989 legislative session, changes were made to the state plumbing code in order to reduce the amount of water needed by the expanding population.  This effort was enhanced by passage of SJR 8210 which allows for the use of public funds for retrofitting cost-efficient water fixtures, systems and equipment.  These measures addressed the indoor water use component of municipal water use. 

Local jurisdictions in some states, California, Arizona, Florida and Colorado, have also enacted ordinances which seek to reduce requirements for outdoor water use.  This use peaks at the same time as the instream flows are the lowest and competition for water is the greatest.

SUMMARY:

Cities, towns and counties are specifically authorized to develop ordinances which provide for water efficient landscaping for future development.  The decision on whether to develop such an ordinance is left to the local jurisdiction.

Water efficient landscaping means:  (1) the deliberate selection and use of varieties of lawn seed and ornamental plants in designing landscapes with low water use requirements while maintaining a traditional appearance; and (2) specifications of water use requirements for installed sprinkler systems to irrigate lawns and ornamental plants.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    none requested