Accomplishing OneWaterSF
Working Across Traditional Boundaries
Building on Success to Strengthen OneWaterSF
OneWaterSF Development
OneWaterSF has precipitated a shift in how we do business at the SFPUC. We have moved away
from thinking in silos to taking a more holistic approach to our internal communications and how
we approach water and energy resource management. During our first year of implementation of
OneWaterSF, we have developed a number of tools and materials to assist in this cultural change and
our communication around OneWaterSF. This includes development of a SharePoint site that allows for
the transparent access for all SFPUC employees about the ongoing work of OneWaterSF. Presentations
and “lunch and learn” opportunities have been provided to staff to give overviews and updates on
program initiative progress at the SFPUC headquarters. A digital display is featured in the lobby of
the SFPUC headquarters that is used to share OneWaterSF developments with staff and visitors. We
have also made an effort to increase external communications through showcasing our OneWaterSF
approach in several industry publications. Engagement at all levels is crucial to create a diverse program
that can grow and sustain itself so that we can continue to fulfill the OneWaterSF Vision.
Pushing the Innovation Envelope
In September 2012, the City and County of San Francisco adopted the Non-potable Water Ordinance.
This allowed for the collection, treatment, and use of alternate water sources for non-potable
applications in individual buildings and at the district-scale. Onsite non-potable water systems, also
referred to as alternate water source systems, provide a myriad of benefits such as reducing potable
water use for toilet flushing and irrigation, meeting Stormwater Management Ordinance requirements,
and helping San Francisco achieve greater water supply resiliency and reliability. Working closely with
the San Francisco Department of Public Health and Department of Building Inspection, the SFPUC has
created several resources for both single-building and commercial building owners on what the new
ordinance means and how to comply. Replacing the demand for toilet and urinal flushing with non-
potable water can offset approximately 25% of the total potable water use in a residential building, and
up to 75% in a commercial building. To date, the Non-potable Water Program has over 80 projects in
various stages of design, permitting, construction, and operation.
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Non-Potable Water Program