The Municipal Water Law (2ESSHB1338) was passed in 2003 by the Legislature to make water efficiency a priority. This law and the resulting Water Use Efficiency rule (WUE) provide direction for the development of WUE program goals. 70.119A RCW.
Municipal water suppliers will see significant benefits from the Municipal Water Law, which gives them more control and flexibility in exercising their water rights. The state’s limited water supply is under increasing pressure. The WUE requirements will help ensure that the state has the stewardship required to preserve and protect its water resources.
What enforcement is being used to ensure compliance?
It is important that municipal water suppliers comply with the WUE requirements for water conservation. Our compliance strategy emphasizes technical support by providing the tools required to meet the WUE standards. Enforcement actions are prioritized against the most serious violators, particularly those that threaten public health. We provided the necessary tools and opportunities for water systems to comply. They were given enough time to set up WUE programs that meet the rules’ intent. RCW 70.119A.180(7).
To ensure compliance with the WUE regulations, we have sent more than 2,000 violation letters since 2008.
As of 2014
- More than 90% of water systems submit the annual WUE report.
- 76% have water reduction targets that aim to reduce customer water use.
- 1,144 water systems installed meters on 100% service connections.
- The average leakage rate in the state distribution system is 9.6%.
More information can be found in the Water Use Efficiency Progress Report PDF.