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If you are experiencing a water, power, or sewer emergency or service problem call our 24-hour hotline at 3-1-1 or (415) 701-2311 from outside SF or log on at sf311.org. Learn more or review active service alerts.

Commercial Water Conservation

Water Conservation Requirements for Existing Commercial Properties

The most effective way to save water indoors is to replace old plumbing fixtures with new, water-efficient ones and to fix leaks quickly. State and local laws require commercial properties to meet water efficiency requirements. 

What is Required?

Compliance with San Francisco’s Commercial Conservation Ordinance (Section 13A, San Francisco Building Code) was required by 2017 through the Department of Building Inspection (DBI). Properties that did not comply and still have old toilets, urinals, showerheads and faucets over the flow rates noted in Section 13A are subject to code enforcement.  For questions about compliance or enforcement visit DBI’s website or email DBI Chief Plumbing Inspector Steven Panelli at steven.panelli@sfgov.org.

Commercial properties that remodel must meet California plumbing code:

  • Toilets must have a flow rate of 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or lower.
  • Urinals must have a flow rate of 0.125 gpf or lower
  • Showerheads must have a flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute (gpm) or lower.   
  • Faucets and faucet aerators must have a flow rate of 1.2 gpm or lower. 
     

Need Water Conservation Help?

If you have questions about SFPUC conservation programs email waterconservation@sfwater.org or call 415-551-4730.