RVing around the United States means that you may be subject to different laws and regulations whenever you cross state lines. As a camper trying to enjoy the beauty of our country, it’s not always easy to keep track of the specific laws that affect RVers, which is why we’re here to help.
In this article, we’re going to discuss California’s Senate Bill 317, how it impacts campers, why the new legislation is important, and how you can comply with ease.
Important Note: This guide is meant for educational purposes only and is not intended to offer legal advice. Please contact a lawyer, or your company’s legal team, if you have any additional questions or concerns.
Key Points About California’s New Law & RVers
- California’s Senate Bill 317 (SB-317) prohibits the sale and use of specific toxic chemicals in RV holding tanks and wastewater products.
- SB-317 further stipulates that the banned chemicals cannot be dumped in septic systems, onsite wastewater treatment systems, or subsurface disposal systems.
- The legislation recommends RVers use bacteria- and enzyme-based holding tank treatments as safe, environmentally-friendly, and legal alternatives.
- Using a high-quality, bacteria- and enzyme-based RV holding tank treatment like Unique RV Digest-It Ultra, will not only keep you compliant but will also provide you with cleaner holding tanks and added peace of mind.
What is California’s Senate Bill 317 (SB-317)?
California’s SB-317 is an addition to the state’s Health and Safety Code in regards to hazardous waste. The hazardous waste control law prohibits the use of non-biodegradable, toxic chemicals in RVs and waste facilities.
California’s SB-317 includes the following mandates:
- Prohibits the sale or distribution of products that contain specific chemicals or chemical compounds that are labeled for use in RV holding tanks.
- Recommends the use of bacteria- or enzyme-based RV holding tank treatments as safe, environmentally-friendly, and legal alternatives.
- Prevents the use of these toxic products when being dumped in septic systems, onsite wastewater treatment systems, or subsurface disposal systems.
- Requires the owners or operators of RV parks and campgrounds that offer wastewater dumping facilities to post a notice that states that the use of products that contain the listed toxic chemicals is strictly forbidden.
Learn More: Why are Bacteria and Enzymes Good for Your RV Holding Tanks?
What Happens if You Violate California’s SB-317?
Violating California’s hazardous waste regulations can lead to severe consequences, including civil penalties up to $70,000 per day, per violation.
The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) strictly enforces these laws, and will even pursue criminal indictment for “knowing” violations that can result in prison sentences for corporate officers, managers, and employees.
Why Was SB-317 Passed?
California’s SB-317 was passed with the goal to protect the environment by preventing septic systems and groundwater from contamination.
The chemicals listed in the bill kill the necessary bacteria required for sewage treatment and lead to costly septic failures in campgrounds and RV parks.
What are the Risks of Septic Failures?
When a septic system fails, there are a lot of negative consequences, including:
- Contaminated groundwater and surface water (streams, rivers, lakes, beaches).
- Excessive algal growth which can kill aquatic life.
- Soggy, sewage-filled, and dead vegetation zones.
- Serious public health hazards.
Campers can help prevent these risks to human health and the environment by avoiding the toxic chemicals listed in California’s SB-317.
What Chemicals Are Banned by SB-317?
The SB-317 bill lists the following as non-biodegradable toxic chemicals or compounds:
- Bronopol
- Dowicil
- Formalin
- Formaldehyde
- Glutaraldehyde
- Paraformaldehyde
- Para-dichlorobenzene
- Benzene
- Toluene
- Xylene
- Ethylene glycol
- 1,1,1-trichloroethane
- Trichloroethylene
- Perchloroethylene
According to the bill, you cannot use, sell, or dump products that contain these harmful chemicals in the state of California.
Learn More: California’s SB-317 Legislation
How to Stay Compliant with California SB-317
The good news is that staying compliant with California SB-317 is easy.
Check Product Labels
As an RVer, the best thing you can do is review the ingredients list for any product that you’re buying to ensure it doesn’t include any of the banned chemicals.
If a company doesn’t include a transparent list of ingredients on the packaging, that’s a huge red flag.
Sadly, some existing RV holding tank treatments on the market include these toxic chemicals, and not only do they not include them on the label but they also don’t include proper warnings on the outside of the packaging.
For a full product comparison, including compliance with California’s SB-317, refer to our guide: Best RV Black Tank Treatments - Reviewed By RV Techs
Choose High-Quality, Bacteria- and Enzyme-Based Tank Treatments
You can skip the legal compliance research and guesswork entirely if you opt for bacteria- and enzyme-based RV holding tank treatments — which the legislation even recommends.
Why are these treatments recommended? Well, not only are bacteria and enzymes completely safe for you, your family, and the environment, but they’re the most effective way to treat RV holding tanks.
When you choose Unique RV Digest-It Ultra, you’re getting the gold standard of both bacteria and enzymes.
Enzymes rapidly break down waste, bacteria consume the solids, and stinky hydrogen sulfide gas and ammonia are converted into odorless carbon dioxide and water.
The result? RV Digest-It Ultra effectively handles waste breakdown, toilet paper breakdown, eliminates odors at the source, and preventively cleans your black tank — safely doing more for your RV than harsh chemicals ever could.
For expert tips on RV holding tank care, read our guide: The Unique Method
What Do RV Parks & Campgrounds Need to Do?
Campgrounds can also stay compliant with SB-317 by doing the following:
- Contact your regional board regarding wastewater dumping reporting requirements, ensuring that you’re offering the correct documentation.
- Prominently display a sign making guests aware of changes to California law, clearly highlighting the banned chemicals and compounds.
To help, we created a compliant sign that you can download and print for your campground, travel center, or RV park:
Download Our SB-317 Compliant Sign
Hit the Road, Not Roadblocks: SB-317 Made Simple for RVers
California’s SB-317 is intended to help protect the environment, ensuring that the beautiful parks and campgrounds you visit will remain intact for years to come. It’s not meant to be complicated or confusing, and it really doesn’t need to be.
Bottom Line:
- As a camper: Be diligent about product labels, ensuring you’re choosing products that don’t include listed toxic chemicals. Instead, choose bacteria- and enzyme-based treatments like Unique RV Digest-It Ultra, offering the best care for your RV black tank while ensuring you keep a clean legal record.
- As a campground owner or manager: follow local regulations, post the appropriate signage, and do your best to hold campers accountable and keep your property safe.
Have questions about California SB-317 or your RV? Reach out to the excellent Customer Support Team at Unique Camping + Marine for expert help today.
Prevent Common Problems In Your Tanks!
From misreading sensors, preventing clogs, or eliminating odors, we've got you covered no matter how you camp! All our best holding tank tips and trick information plus more can be found conveniently in one place when you download our FREE Unique Method Field Guide PDF. Achieve holding tank bliss today!
Get The Free Download Get The Free Download
