FAQ Rainwater Systems on Salt Spring Island

Non-Potable Rainwater System Q and A

 

Q: Does installation require a building permit on Salt Spring Island?

A: It depends on your tank size and the features of your site. If situated as per this reference document, it is very likely that your tank would not require a building permit but it is always recommended to inquire at the Capital Regional District’s Building Office located above the post office in Ganges.

Q: What is debris and how can it affect my safe rainwater collection?

A: Debris is your nemesis if you are rainwater collector! It’s a great idea to use gutter guards and sealed 5″ diameter polyethylene piping wherever possible throughout your rainwater collection system.

Q: What are the benefits of collecting and using rainwater?

A: Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting:  brought to you by the Capital Regional District.

 

Rainwater and Toilet Flushing

 

Q: Is dual plumbing required to flush a toilet with stored rainwater?

A: Yes. The stored rainwater is considered to be non-potable, and an entirely different plumbing system must be installed to bring the water from the storage tank to the toilets.

Q: To use rainwater for toilet flushing, does a homeowner have to change the plumbing from the toilet to the septage?

A: No. The drainage from the toilet remains “black water” and can be flushed to sewer or septic, as appropriate.

Q: What is not-permitted when installing a dual plumbing system in order to flush toilets with stored rainwater/greywater?

A: According to the BC Plumbing Code (2018) section 2.7.1.1, a non-potable water system shall not be connected to a potable water system.

More Q and A:

Islands Trust Conservancy – Rainwater Harvesting in the Gulf Islands of BC

Team WaterSmart – Regional District of Nanaimo