The Gajahwong River is one of the vital rivers in Yogyakarta City, serving important
ecological, economic, and social functions. However, phospate detergent waste
pollution from domestic activities such as households and laundry businesses has
degraded the river’s water quality, distrupted aquatic ecosystems, and harmed
surronding communities. This study aims to examine the legal aspects of phospate
detergent waste management as an effort to control pollution in the Gajahwong
River in Giwangan Village, Yogyakarta City, and to identify the challenges and
solutions encountered. This research employs and empirical judical method,
colleting data through interviews with the Yogyakarta City Environmental Agency
and the Giwangan Village Office, as well as literature study. The results indicate
that the management of phospate detergent waste is regulated by Regional
Regulation of DIY No.7 of 2016 on Wastewater Quality Standards and Regional
Regulation of Yogyakarta City No.6 of 2024 on Domestic Wastewater treatments
plants (WWTP), communal septic tanks, water quality monitoring,M3K movement,
and reguler river cleaning. However, the implementation faces several challenges,
including low public awareness, weak law enforcement, and limited human
resouces. Propesed solutions include intensive enviromental education, strenthened
monitoring involving the commnity, and stricter legal sanctions. These efforts are
expected to enhance the effectiveness of waste management and maintain the
Gajahwong River’s water quality in accordance with its designation as a class II
river.