Where do you dump grey water?

What is grey water and why rules matter

Grey water is the used water from sinks, showers, and laundry. It is not the same as black water, which contains toilet waste. Even though grey water has fewer pathogens, it still carries food particles, soap, oils, and bacteria that can harm streams and attract wildlife. Many parks and cities regulate grey water disposal to protect soil and waterways. Knowing where to dump grey water keeps you legal, courteous, and environmentally responsible.

Where to dump grey water legally

The safest approach is to connect to the sanitary sewer through approved facilities. Common legal options include:

• RV dump stations at public campgrounds and private parks
• Dedicated municipal dump stations or wastewater treatment facilities that accept recreational vehicles
• Truck stops and travel centers with paid dump access
• Marinas that allow RV tank service when a proper sewer connection is present
• A home sewer cleanout or household toilet that flows to the city sewer, not a septic system unless it is rated for that load

Campground and RV dump stations

These sites are designed for grey and black water. Follow posted instructions. Typical steps:

1. Put on gloves and chock your wheels if needed.
2. Connect your sewer hose securely to the station fitting and your rig.
3. Open the grey water valve slowly to avoid splashing.
4. When empty, close the valve and use any provided rinse water to flush the hose and fitting.
5. Sanitize the area if required and replace caps before leaving.

Expect fees or access rules. Some campgrounds include dumping with a site stay; others offer pay per use.

Municipal and home sewer options

Many cities have utilities that accept RV waste during business hours. Call ahead to confirm access, fee, and hose requirements. At home, the safest method is a labeled hose into a sewer cleanout that connects to the municipal system. If you do not have one, use the household toilet in small batches. Never drain into a storm drain, yard, roadside ditch, or any system that leads directly to creeks.

Places you should never dump grey water

• On the ground at a campsite or trailhead
• In storm drains, ditches, or culverts
• Within 200 feet of any water source, including lakes or seasonal streams
• Onto delicate desert crust or alpine tundra
• In parking lots where runoff can carry waste to waterways
• On private property without written permission and a lawful sewer connection

Dumping on the ground can spread contaminants, attract animals, and result in fines. Many public lands and most cities prohibit it outright.

Leave No Trace dishwater rules

Small dishwater is different from a full tank. If allowed by local rules, strain out food with a mesh screen and pack out solids. Scatter the cooled water broadly at least 200 feet from water sources so soil can filter it. Use biodegradable soap lightly. These guidelines do not apply to a vehicle grey tank, which must be emptied at a proper sewer connection.

Practical tips for clean, problem free disposal

A few habits make every dump fast, sanitary, and courteous.

• Pre screen solids: Use sink strainers to capture food scraps. Bag and trash them.
• Choose smart soaps: Biodegradable products reduce chemical load on treatment systems and soils.
• Separate gear: Keep a dedicated sewer hose, clear elbow, gloves, and sanitizer. Store away from fresh water items.
• Control flow: Open valves slowly and keep hose angles smooth to prevent clogs.
• Rinse and tidy: Flush the hose, wipe down fittings, and leave the station cleaner than you found it.
• Plan ahead: Check maps and apps for dump stations along your route. Have a backup location in case one is closed.

If a dump station is full or closed

• Call the nearest wastewater plant to ask about public access
• Ask a campground about paid dump use even if you are not staying
• Try a marina or truck stop that lists RV services
• Book a night at a park with on site dumping to reset tanks and resupply

Rules can vary by state and land manager

Public lands, coastal zones, and desert regions often use stricter policies to protect sensitive environments. National parks typically require all tanked wastewater to go into approved stations. Some state parks allow strained dishwater at designated sinks but ban ground disposal otherwise. Always check posted signs and official websites for the latest guidance before you travel.

How long can you hold grey water

Capacity depends on your tank size, plumbing, and crew. Many travelers plan to dump every two to four days to prevent odors and overflow. Heat accelerates smells, and certain soaps can foam in tanks. To stretch capacity, limit long showers, wipe dishes before washing, and cook with minimal water when you are far from services.

Safety and etiquette at the dump station

• Queue politely and keep the area clear
• Never leave hoses unattended while valves are open
• Avoid spilling and clean any drips immediately
• Do not use potable water spigots for rinsing unless clearly labeled for that purpose
• Secure caps, stow hoses, and move your vehicle before adjusting gear inside

Build a rig that makes grey water easy

A well designed plumbing layout reduces hassles and helps you comply with local rules. Consider a clear hose elbow for visibility, a vented loop to prevent burps, and labeled valves for fast operation. Add a charcoal trap to reduce odor and a dedicated washdown sprayer for cleanup. If you often boondock, an accurate tank monitor and a larger grey tank can extend time between dumps while keeping your footprint low.

OZK Customs designs water systems around real world travel patterns with practical routing, labeled service points, and simple maintenance. Explore our recreational vans to see how we turn touring needs into clean, reliable plumbing. If you are mapping a from scratch build, our custom van build process tailors tank size, filtration, and access to your routes and climate. Shopping for a platform that finances well before the upfit begins? Review our mainstream vans to choose a starting point that fits your budget and timeline.

Final thought

Grey water is simple when you know where to take it. Plan your dump stops, respect local rules, and keep your gear organized. With the right setup, disposal becomes a quick chore instead of a headache.

Contact us using the form and we will help you design a water system that keeps you compliant and confident wherever you roam.