{"verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","states":[{"code":"AL","name":"Alabama","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state statute, regulation or agency rule found that requires or exempts a permit for residential rooftop rainwater collection. Any plumbing connection would fall under locally enforced plumbing codes; not researched at local level.","allowedUses":["Alabama Cooperative Extension (Auburn/Alabama A&M) guidance, not law: irrigation, washing cars and flushing toilets."],"potableRules":"No state rule found. Extension guidance only: harvested rainwater should be used for drinking only if the system includes treatment components; purification requirements vary with state and local ordinances and systems must be inspected by local authorities.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":[],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/fish-water/chapter-2-basics-of-rainwater-harvesting/","title":"Chapter 2 - Basics of Rainwater Harvesting (A Homeowner's Guide to Rainwater Harvesting in Alabama, ANR-2794), Alabama Cooperative Extension System","section":"Basics"},{"url":"https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama","title":"Code of Alabama - Alabama Legislature (searched)","section":"No rainwater collection section found"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"This stored water can be used for irrigation, washing cars, and flushing toilets.","url":"https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/fish-water/chapter-2-basics-of-rainwater-harvesting/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Harvested rainwater should only be used for drinking water if system treatment components have been included. Water purification requirements vary with state and local ordinances, and systems must be inspected by local authorities.","url":"https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/fish-water/chapter-2-basics-of-rainwater-harvesting/"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"During these months and in times of encouraged water restrictions, having a rainwater harvesting system has additional benefits.","url":"https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/fish-water/chapter-2-basics-of-rainwater-harvesting/"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"AK","name":"Alaska","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No statute, regulation or agency statement found that addresses a permit for residential rooftop rainwater collection. The general water-rights rule (AS 46.15.180; 11 AAC 93.035) requires a permit to divert, impound or withdraw a 'significant amount' of water (e.g., more than 5,000 gallons/day consumptive from one source, or more than 500 gallons/day for more than 10 days a year); DNR does not say whether roof runoff is a 'source' under that rule.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":"Household rainwater catchment for drinking is a 'private water system' (not a public water system), which the DEC Drinking Water Program does not regulate; DEC publishes voluntary best-management practices (roof washer, NSF/ANSI-certified materials, routine testing). Systems serving the public fall under 18 AAC 80.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Alaska uses prior appropriation under the Alaska Water Use Act: water wherever it naturally occurs is a common property resource and landowners have no automatic rights. No DNR guidance applying this to roof rainwater was found; DEC notes rainwater catchment is widely used by homeowners, especially in southeast Alaska.","citations":["AS 46.15 (Alaska Water Use Act), AS 46.15.180","11 AAC 93.035 (significant amount of water)","18 AAC 80.1990(a) (definition of private water system)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/water/rights/","title":"Water Rights in Alaska - DNR Division of Mining, Land and Water","section":"What are water rights?; significant amount"},{"url":"https://dec.alaska.gov/media/8481/private-water-systems-bmp.pdf","title":"Best Management Practices for Private Water Systems - Alaska DEC Drinking Water Program","section":"Introduction; 3.B.5 Rainwater Catchment"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Anyone who diverts, impounds, or withdraws a significant amount of water for use, without a permit, certificate, or authorization is guilty of a misdemeanor (AS 46.15.180).","url":"https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/water/rights/"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"the consumptive use of more than 5,000 gallons of water from a single source in a single day;","url":"https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/water/rights/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Although the DEC Drinking Water Program does not regulate private water systems, the owners of such systems should be aware of the other regulatory requirements","url":"https://dec.alaska.gov/media/8481/private-water-systems-bmp.pdf"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"because water wherever it naturally occurs is a common property resource, landowners do not have automatic rights to groundwater or surface water.","url":"https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/water/rights/"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Rainwater catchment water systems are used throughout Alaska and mostly by residential homeowners and small businesses.","url":"https://dec.alaska.gov/media/8481/private-water-systems-bmp.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"A “roof washer” system which is a pre- wash of the roof before rainwater collection begins, is effective in removing some of the chemical and physical contaminants and should be installed and used for a rainwater catchment water system.","url":"https://dec.alaska.gov/media/8481/private-water-systems-bmp.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"AZ","name":"Arizona","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state statute or ADWR rule found that requires (or exempts) a permit for residential rooftop rainwater collection. Plumbing/building permits for tanks or plumbed systems are a local (city/county) matter; Tucson's rebate page notes permit information separately for its program.","allowedUses":["University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center guidance: garden and turf irrigation, dust control, stock water with minimal or no treatment; in-home use may need filtration and disinfection. This is extension guidance, not a statute."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":[{"name":"Tucson Water Rainwater Harvesting Rebate","type":"rebate","amount":"Up to $1,999 per property: $1.00 per gallon of storage (systems sized to capture at least 1 inch of rain from the collecting roof area) or $0.50 per gallon (systems that do not meet that storage), capped at $1,900 for the system, plus up to $99 Treebate ($50 first tree, $49 second). The system cap was cut from $2,000 to $1,900 in July 2026.","eligibility":"Tucson Water single-family residential customers or small commercial businesses (5/8-inch meter) with active Tucson Water service before purchase and installation; must take a qualifying Watershed Management Group workshop; funding limited, submitting a form does not guarantee funding.","url":"https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Tucson-Water/Conservation/Residential-Customer-Rebates/Rainwater-Harvesting-Rebate","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":"Arizona is a prior-appropriation state: surface waters, including 'flood, waste or surplus water', belong to the public and are subject to appropriation (A.R.S. 45-141). No statute or ADWR rule was found applying this to residential roof runoff, and the University of Arizona states homeowners may legally collect rain that falls on their property.","citations":["A.R.S. 45-141 (public nature of waters; appropriation)","A.R.S. 49-1332 (water conservation grant fund may fund rainwater harvesting programs - program-level, not a homeowner incentive)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://wrrc.arizona.edu/gila/can-i-harvest-rainwater","title":"Can I Harvest Rainwater? - University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center","section":"Full page"},{"url":"https://www.azleg.gov/ars/45/00141.htm","title":"A.R.S. 45-141","section":"45-141(A)"},{"url":"https://www.azleg.gov/ars/49/01332.htm","title":"A.R.S. 49-1332 Water conservation grant fund; purposes","section":"49-1332(B)(2)"},{"url":"https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Tucson-Water/Conservation/Residential-Customer-Rebates/Rainwater-Harvesting-Rebate","title":"City of Tucson - Rainwater Harvesting Rebate","section":"Eligibility; Rebate Pricing Details"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"In the state of Arizona, it is legal to collect any rainwater that falls on your property for future use.","url":"https://wrrc.arizona.edu/gila/can-i-harvest-rainwater"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"With minimal or no treatment, rainwater can be used for garden and turf irrigation, dust control, or stock water supply.","url":"https://wrrc.arizona.edu/gila/can-i-harvest-rainwater"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"If you are interested in using the water for in-home purposes, some form of filtration and disinfection may be necessary.","url":"https://wrrc.arizona.edu/gila/can-i-harvest-rainwater"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Rebate maximum is $1,999 (up to $1,900 for system storage and up to $99 for Treebate) per property.","url":"https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Tucson-Water/Conservation/Residential-Customer-Rebates/Rainwater-Harvesting-Rebate"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Tucson Water single-family residential customers or small commercial businesses may be eligible for a rainwater harvesting rebate.","url":"https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Tucson-Water/Conservation/Residential-Customer-Rebates/Rainwater-Harvesting-Rebate"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"flood, waste or surplus water, and of lakes, ponds and springs on the surface, belong to the public and are subject to appropriation and beneficial use","url":"https://www.azleg.gov/ars/45/00141.htm"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"In the state of Arizona, it is legal to collect any rainwater that falls on your property for future use.","url":"https://wrrc.arizona.edu/gila/can-i-harvest-rainwater"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Rebate funding for this program is limited. Submitting a rebate form does not guarantee funding.","url":"https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Tucson-Water/Conservation/Residential-Customer-Rebates/Rainwater-Harvesting-Rebate"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"AR","name":"Arkansas","status":"legal_by_statute","limits":"No volume cap and no state rule on simple rain barrels. A.C.A. 17-38-201(g) (in the Plumbers chapter) directs the State Board of Health to allow harvested rainwater systems used for nonpotable purposes if the system is designed by an Arkansas-licensed professional engineer, has appropriate cross-connection safeguards and complies with the state plumbing code. These conditions apply to plumbed systems regulated under the plumbing law; the statute does not mention stand-alone barrels.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state permit or registration rule for a stand-alone rain barrel found. A plumbed nonpotable rainwater system must comply with the Arkansas Plumbing Code (Department of Health); the exact permit mechanics for plumbed systems were not confirmed from state text.","allowedUses":["Rain barrels: gardening and other outdoor uses without restriction. Engineered harvested rainwater systems: nonpotable purposes (e.g., toilet/urinal flushing) with cross-connection safeguards per the plumbing code."],"potableRules":"The statute authorizes harvested rainwater systems only for nonpotable purposes; no state provision authorizing potable residential rainwater use was found.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Ark. Code Ann. 17-38-201(g) (State Board of Health shall allow harvested rainwater systems for nonpotable purposes, with conditions)","2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code (17 CAR Part 65; based on the 2018 International Plumbing Code)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/PLUMBING_LAW_2022.pdf","title":"Arkansas Plumber's Law, A.C.A. Title 17, Chapter 38 (Arkansas Department of Health compilation, 2022)","section":"17-38-201(g)"},{"url":"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/environment-nature/water/conservation/collecting-rainwater.aspx","title":"Is it legal to collect rainwater in Arkansas? - University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension","section":"Full page"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"The State Board of Health shall allow the use of a harvested rainwater system used for a nonpotable purpose if the harvested rainwater system:","url":"https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/PLUMBING_LAW_2022.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"(1) Is designed by a professional engineer licensed in Arkansas; (2) Is designed with appropriate cross-connection safeguards; and (3) Complies with the state plumbing code.","url":"https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/PLUMBING_LAW_2022.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Unlike in western states, collecting rainwater in a barrel for gardening or other uses has no restrictions in Arkansas.","url":"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/environment-nature/water/conservation/collecting-rainwater.aspx"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"shall allow the use of a harvested rainwater system used for a nonpotable purpose","url":"https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/PLUMBING_LAW_2022.pdf"},{"field":"status","text":"Yes, it is legal to collect rainwater in Arkansas.","url":"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/environment-nature/water/conservation/collecting-rainwater.aspx"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"(3) Complies with the state plumbing code.","url":"https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/PLUMBING_LAW_2022.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"A great way to collect rainwater is with a rain barrel!","url":"https://www.uaex.uada.edu/environment-nature/water/conservation/collecting-rainwater.aspx"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"nonpotable_only","special":[{"title":"The law says \"shall allow\"","text":"Arkansas law says the State Board of Health \"shall allow\" harvested rainwater systems for non-drinking use if they are designed by an Arkansas-licensed engineer, have cross-connection safeguards and meet the plumbing code. Those conditions apply to plumbed systems; the statute doesn't mention stand-alone barrels."}]},{"code":"CA","name":"California","status":"legal_by_statute","limits":"No state volume cap. The Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 says using rooftop rainwater does not need a water-right permit. System design and installation fall under the California Plumbing Code (2025 CPC Chapter 16, Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems): a plumbing permit is needed unless an exception applies, tanks must be labelled nonpotable, and there must be no unprotected connection to the drinking-water supply. Local building departments (the Authority Having Jurisdiction) enforce the code and may add local rules.","permitRequired":"above_threshold","permitNotes":"No water-right permit for rooftop rainwater (Water Code 10574). Plumbing permit (CPC 1601.3) is required for nonpotable rainwater catchment systems except: (1) exterior systems for outdoor non-spray irrigation up to 5,000 gallons where the tank sits directly on grade, height-to-width ratio is 2:1 or less, and there is no electrical power or makeup-water connection; (2) exterior systems for spray irrigation up to 360 gallons (HCD-adopted exception, covering residential occupancies). Electrical or building permits may still apply to related work. Indoor uses (toilet flushing etc.) and larger or pumped systems need a permit.","allowedUses":["Outdoor irrigation (surface, subsurface, drip, spray), car washing; with a permitted CPC Chapter 16 system and where approved by the local authority, non-potable indoor uses such as toilet/urinal flushing, clothes washing and trap priming, subject to Table 1603.4 water-quality limits."],"potableRules":"CPC Chapter 16 covers nonpotable systems only. Potable rainwater systems are addressed in CPC Appendix K, but appendices do not apply unless adopted by a state agency or a local enforcing agency; the 2025 Appendix K adoption matrix shows no state-agency adoption, so potable use depends on local adoption and approval (Appendix K requires a permit, a registered design professional, and non-detectable E. coli, cysts and viruses).","incentives":[{"name":"Property tax new-construction exclusion for rain water capture systems (Rev. & Tax. Code 74.8, Proposition 72)","type":"property tax exclusion","amount":"Construction or addition of a rain water capture system is not \"new construction\", so it does not add to the assessed value","eligibility":"Rain water capture systems (rooftop or other manmade aboveground hard surface, for onsite use) on new construction completed on or after Jan 1, 2019; also extends to the initial buyer of a new building from an owner-builder (until the next change in ownership). Section repeals Jan 1, 2029.","url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=RTC&sectionNum=74.8","level":"state"},{"name":"SoCal Water$mart rain barrel and cistern rebate (Metropolitan Water District of Southern California)","type":"rebate","amount":"$35 per rain barrel (50-199 gal, max 2); cisterns $250 (200-500 gal), $300 (501-999 gal), $350 (1,000+ gal), max 1","eligibility":"Customers of Metropolitan's member agencies in parts of Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties; one application; barrel water distributed by hose or bucket, not tied into irrigation or graywater","url":"https://socalwatersmart.com/en/residential/rebates/available-rebates/rain-barrels-cisterns/","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":"California has a mixed riparian / prior-appropriation system in which a permit from the State Water Board is normally needed to appropriate water (Water Code 1201). The Rainwater Capture Act exempts rooftop rainwater use from that permit requirement, while stating it does not change existing water rights law.","citations":["Cal. Water Code 10570-10574 (Rainwater Capture Act of 2012, AB 1750)","2025 California Plumbing Code (Cal. Code Regs. Title 24, Part 5) Chapter 16, Sections 1601.1.1, 1601.3, 1601.7, Table 1603.4; Appendix K; Section 1.1.4","Cal. Rev. & Tax. Code 74.8"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=WAT&sectionNum=10574","title":"California Water Code 10574","section":"10574"},{"url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=WAT&sectionNum=10573","title":"California Water Code 10573 (definitions)","section":"10573"},{"url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=WAT&sectionNum=10572","title":"California Water Code 10572","section":"10572"},{"url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/","title":"2025 California Plumbing Code (IAPMO official read-only edition)","section":"Chapter 16 (1601.1.1, 1601.3, 1601.7, Table 1603.4); Appendix K; 1.1.4"},{"url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=RTC&sectionNum=74.8","title":"California Revenue and Taxation Code 74.8","section":"74.8"},{"url":"https://socalwatersmart.com/en/residential/rebates/available-rebates/rain-barrels-cisterns/","title":"SoCal Water$mart - Rain Barrels & Cisterns","section":"Rebate amounts and guidelines"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"Use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit pursuant to Section 1201.","url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=WAT&sectionNum=10574"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"A permit is not required for exterior rainwater catchment systems used for outdoor non-spray irrigation with a maximum storage capacity of 5000 gallons (18 927 L) where the tank is supported directly upon grade","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"A permit is not required for exterior rainwater catchment systems used for spray irrigation with a maximum storage capacity of 360 gallons (1363 L).","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Where approved or required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, rainwater shall be permitted to be used instead of potable water for the applications identified in this chapter.","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Urinal and water closet flushing, clothes washing, and trap priming","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Provisions contained in the appendices of this code shall not apply unless specifically adopted by a state agency or adopted by a local enforcing agency","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/"},{"field":"incentives","text":"“Newly constructed” and “new construction” do not include the construction or addition of a rain water capture system.","url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=RTC&sectionNum=74.8"},{"field":"incentives","text":"This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.","url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=RTC&sectionNum=74.8"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Rebates Start at $35 per Barrel or $250 per Cistern","url":"https://socalwatersmart.com/en/residential/rebates/available-rebates/rain-barrels-cisterns/"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Nothing in this part shall be construed to do any of the following: (a) Alter or impair any existing rights. (b) Change existing water rights law.","url":"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=WAT&sectionNum=10572"},{"field":"limits","text":"It shall be unlawful for a person to construct, install, alter, or cause to be constructed, installed, or altered a nonpotable rainwater catchment system in a building or on a premise without first obtaining a permit to do such work from the Authority Having Jurisdiction.","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"It shall be unlawful for a person to construct, install, alter, or cause to be constructed, installed, or altered a nonpotable rainwater catchment system in a building or on a premise without first obtaining a permit to do such work from the Authority Having Jurisdiction.","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2025/CPC/"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Collecting and re-using rainwater for lawns and gardens minimizes the amount of water flowing into your storm drains, sewer systems and local waterways.","url":"https://socalwatersmart.com/en/residential/rebates/available-rebates/rain-barrels-cisterns/"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[{"title":"No water right; plumbing permit only above set sizes","text":"California's Water Code says rooftop rainwater needs no water-right permit (section 10574). The plumbing code requires a permit for rainwater systems except outdoor tanks up to 5,000 gallons on grade feeding non-spray irrigation (with no power or makeup-water connection) and outdoor systems up to 360 gallons feeding spray irrigation."}]},{"code":"CO","name":"Colorado","status":"legal_with_limits","limits":"Up to two rain barrels (aboveground, outdoors, with sealable lids) with a combined capacity of 110 gallons or less, fed from the roof downspout of a building used primarily as a single-family home or a multi-family building with four or fewer units. Barrels may be filled and refilled through the year. Water must be used outdoors (e.g., lawn and garden irrigation) on the same property where it was collected. The State Engineer may curtail rain-barrel use to protect senior water rights. Separately, homes that have (or qualify for) an exempt or small-capacity residential well permit, and are not served by a water system supplying more than three single-family dwellings, may collect more than 110 gallons with a rooftop precipitation collection permit (form GWS-78) and use it for the uses allowed on the well permit.","permitRequired":"above_threshold","permitNotes":"No permit for up to two barrels / 110 gallons combined under C.R.S. 37-96.5-103. Collection beyond that is only possible for properties with (or eligible for) an exempt/small-capacity residential well permit, and requires a DWR Rooftop Precipitation Collection System Permit (GWS-78) under C.R.S. 37-92-602(1)(g) and 37-90-105(1)(f). Homeowners' associations may not prohibit rain barrels used under 37-96.5-103 but may impose reasonable aesthetic requirements (C.R.S. 38-33.3-106.5(1)(j)); this does not give a right to place barrels on leased property, common elements, association-maintained property or property attached to other units without permission.","allowedUses":["Outdoor uses on the property where collected (lawn and garden irrigation; DWR also lists car washing, livestock watering, hot tub filling). No drinking water or indoor household use under the rain-barrel law. Under a well-linked rooftop collection permit, uses allowed on the well permit (may include indoor uses)."],"potableRules":"Under the rain-barrel statute, collected precipitation may not be used for drinking water or indoor household purposes. Indoor/potable use is only possible under the separate well-linked permit, limited to the uses allowed on that well permit.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Colorado follows the prior appropriation doctrine; rain falling on a roof would otherwise flow to streams that senior water-rights holders are entitled to. The 2016 law states it does not impair prior appropriation, that a rain barrel is not a water right, and lets the State Engineer curtail barrel use to protect senior rights. A 2025 bill to remove the 110-gallon cap and use limits (HB25-1106) was postponed indefinitely.","citations":["C.R.S. 37-96.5-101 to 37-96.5-105 (House Bill 16-1005)","C.R.S. 37-92-602(1)(g) and 37-90-105(1)(f) (Senate Bill 09-080, well-linked rooftop collection permits)","C.R.S. 38-33.3-106.5(1)(j) (common interest communities may not prohibit rain barrels; added by HB16-1005)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-37.pdf","title":"Colorado Revised Statutes 2024, Title 37 (official uncertified printout, Office of Legislative Legal Services)","section":"37-96.5-101 to -103"},{"url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-38.pdf","title":"Colorado Revised Statutes 2024, Title 38 (official uncertified printout)","section":"38-33.3-106.5(1)(j)"},{"url":"https://dwr.colorado.gov/services/water-administration/rainwater-storm-water-graywater","title":"Colorado Division of Water Resources - Rainwater, Storm Water & Graywater","section":"Rain Barrels FAQ; Additional Allowances for Properties with Residential Wells"},{"url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1106","title":"HB25-1106 Remove Precipitation Collection Limitations","section":"Bill status (Lost, postponed indefinitely 02/13/2025)"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"(a) No more than two rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of one hundred ten gallons or less are utilized;","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-37.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"(b) Precipitation is collected from the rooftop of a building that is used primarily as a single-family residence or a multi-family residence with four or fewer units;","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-37.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"(c) The collected precipitation is used for outdoor purposes including irrigation of lawns and gardens; and (d) The collected precipitation is used on the residential property on which the precipitation is collected.","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-37.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"(2) A person shall not use precipitation collected under this article for drinking water or indoor household purposes.","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-37.pdf"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"No permit or other approval is required for capture and use of precipitation in rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of 110 gallons in accordance with Section 37-96.5-103, C.R.S.","url":"https://dwr.colorado.gov/services/water-administration/rainwater-storm-water-graywater"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Yes, before you begin to collect precipitation in connection with an exempt or small capacity well permit, you need to obtain a rooftop precipitation collection permit.","url":"https://dwr.colorado.gov/services/water-administration/rainwater-storm-water-graywater"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"(j) (I) The use of a rain barrel, as defined in section 37-96.5-102 (1), C.R.S., to collect precipitation from a residential rooftop in accordance with section 37-96.5-103, C.R.S.","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-38.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"(III) A common interest community may impose reasonable aesthetic requirements that govern the placement or external appearance of a rain barrel.","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-38.pdf"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"(3) The general assembly further declares that the use of a rain barrel does not constitute a water right.","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-37.pdf"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"(3) The state engineer may curtail rain barrel usage pursuant to section 37-92-502 (2)(a).","url":"https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-37.pdf"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":"2 barrels, 110 gal combined","potable":"nonpotable_only","special":[{"title":"The 110-gallon rule still stands","text":"A 2025 bill to remove Colorado's 110-gallon cap and use limits (HB25-1106) was postponed indefinitely, and no 2026 law changed the rule. An HOA can't prohibit barrels used under the statute, but it can set reasonable aesthetic rules, and the protection doesn't cover leased property, common elements, association-maintained property or attached units."}]},{"code":"CT","name":"Connecticut","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state permit requirement for rain barrels found in the General Statutes. Plumbed or large cistern systems would fall under the State Building/Plumbing Code enforced by local building officials; not researched.","allowedUses":["CT DEEP guidance (not law): irrigate lawns, water indoor/outdoor plants, fill outdoor fountains, wash cars, clean household windows; not for drinking; may not suit vegetable gardens depending on the property."],"potableRules":"No state rule found. CT DEEP guidance: rain barrel water should not be used for drinking; larger cisterns can be a potable source only if the water is properly treated before use.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["C.G.S. 19a-213 (mosquito-breeding places; rain water barrels)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_368e.htm","title":"Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 368e","section":"Sec. 19a-213"},{"url":"https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/water/watershed_management/wm_plans/LID/whatisarainbarrelpdf.pdf","title":"Install a Rain Barrel! - CT DEEP Bureau of Water Protection and Land Reuse (LID fact sheet)","section":"How can I use the water in my rain barrel?"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"You can use the water to irrigate your lawn, water indoor/outdoor plants, fill outdoor fountains, wash your car, or clean household windows.","url":"https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/water/watershed_management/wm_plans/LID/whatisarainbarrelpdf.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"The water in the rain barrel can collect pollutants from your roof and should not be used for drinking water.","url":"https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/water/watershed_management/wm_plans/LID/whatisarainbarrelpdf.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Larger collection systems called cisterns can be used as a potable water source if the water is properly treated prior to use.","url":"https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/water/watershed_management/wm_plans/LID/whatisarainbarrelpdf.pdf"},{"field":"notes","text":"rain water barrels, tin cans, bottles or other receptacles or pools near human habitations are breeding mosquitoes, such director of health or board of health shall investigate and cause any such breeding places to be abolished, screened or treated in such manner as to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.","url":"https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_368e.htm"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"One of the easiest and most cost effective methods for conserving water and improving water quality is to INSTALL A RAIN BARREL.","url":"https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/water/watershed_management/wm_plans/LID/whatisarainbarrelpdf.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"DE","name":"Delaware","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state statute or DNREC rule found requiring (or exempting) a permit for residential rain barrels or cisterns. Plumbed/pumped systems would fall under the state plumbing code and local building departments; not researched.","allowedUses":["DNREC guidance (not law): gardening, landscape irrigation and other nonpotable uses (e.g., washing cars). DNREC runs rain-barrel building workshops and promotes barrels as green stormwater infrastructure."],"potableRules":"No state rule found. DNREC guidance: rooftop rainwater may be contaminated and should not be used for drinking, cooking or bathing.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":[],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://documents.dnrec.delaware.gov/Watershed/Chesapeake/Rainwater-Harvesting.pdf","title":"Rainwater Harvesting (rain barrels, cisterns, and downspout disconnections) - DNREC fact sheet","section":"Overview; Design Considerations"},{"url":"https://documents.dnrec.delaware.gov/GI/Documents/Green%20Infrastructure/Rain%20Barrell%20FS_04-1.pdf","title":"Rain Barrels, Cisterns, and Downspout Disconnections - DNREC Green Infrastructure fact sheet","section":"Considerations"},{"url":"https://delcode.delaware.gov/","title":"Delaware Code Online (all 31 titles full-text searched)","section":"No rainwater collection provision"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"The collected rainwater can be reused for gardening, landscape irrigation, and other nonpotable water activities (water not used for drinking).","url":"https://documents.dnrec.delaware.gov/Watershed/Chesapeake/Rainwater-Harvesting.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Rainwater collected from rooftops may be contaminated by debris or by the breakdown of roofing material and should not be used for drinking, cooking, or bathing.","url":"https://documents.dnrec.delaware.gov/Watershed/Chesapeake/Rainwater-Harvesting.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Conserves water and lowers water bills by reducing the use of potable water for landscape irrigation and other uses such as washing windows or cars","url":"https://documents.dnrec.delaware.gov/GI/Documents/Green%20Infrastructure/Rain%20Barrell%20FS_04-1.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"FL","name":"Florida","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state statute on residential rain collection and no volume cap. Plumbed rainwater systems (collection, storage and distribution to fixtures or irrigation) are regulated by the Florida Building Code, Plumbing (2023, 8th ed.) Chapter 13: nonpotable applications only, as permitted by the local jurisdiction; collection only from above-ground impervious roofs (or approved parking/walking surfaces); debris excluders, first-flush diverters, labelled nonpotable tanks and outlets, backflow protection of any potable makeup connection, and 100-micron filtration for toilet/urinal flushing. Simple unplumbed barrels are not regulated at state level. HOA/deed restrictions may prohibit barrels (SWFWMD).","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"A plumbing permit is required for constructing, installing, altering or repairing nonpotable water systems under FBC-Plumbing 1301.4. For a small stand-alone rain barrel, the Southwest Florida Water Management District says most local governments do not prohibit them; for cisterns, pumps or connections to plumbing/irrigation, check local plumbing, building and health departments. Florida law also lets plumbing contractors install rainwater catchment systems without creating a mandatory license requirement for that work (F.S. 489.105(3)(m)).","allowedUses":["Rain barrels: landscape watering and other outdoor nonpotable uses (SWFWMD guidance). Plumbed systems: nonpotable applications permitted by the jurisdiction, e.g., toilet/urinal flushing (with filtration) and irrigation."],"potableRules":"The Florida Building Code rainwater section covers nonpotable applications only. SWFWMD guidance: stored rainwater is not potable and should not be used for drinking, bathing, pets, edible plants or recreation.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Florida Building Code, Plumbing, 8th ed. (2023) Chapter 13, Sections 1301.1, 1301.4, 1303.1-1303.7","F.S. 489.105(3)(m) (plumbing contractor definition - rainwater catchment systems)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/FLPC2023P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems","title":"2023 Florida Building Code, Plumbing, 8th Edition - Chapter 13 Nonpotable Water Systems","section":"1301.1, 1301.3, 1301.4, 1303.1, 1303.2"},{"url":"https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499%2F0489%2F0489.html","title":"Florida Statutes Chapter 489","section":"489.105 Definitions (plumbing contractor)"},{"url":"https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/sites/default/files/store_products/Rain%20Barrel%20Guide%202022%20WEB_a11y.pdf","title":"Rain Barrels: A Homeowner's Guide - Southwest Florida Water Management District (2022)","section":"Do I need a permit?"}],"quotes":[{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications, as permitted by the jurisdiction.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/FLPC2023P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"limits","text":"Rainwater shall be collected only from above-ground impervious roofing surfaces constructed from approved materials and where approved, vehicular parking or pedestrian walking surfaces.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/FLPC2023P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"Permits shall be required for the construction, installation, alteration and repair of nonpotable water systems.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/FLPC2023P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Most local governments do not prohibit the installation of a small rain barrel for nonpotable uses, such as landscape watering.","url":"https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/sites/default/files/store_products/Rain%20Barrel%20Guide%202022%20WEB_a11y.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"A plumbing contractor may perform drain cleaning and clearing and install or repair rainwater catchment systems; however, a mandatory licensing requirement is not established","url":"https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499%2F0489%2F0489.html"},{"field":"limits","text":"Some deed restrictions do prohibit them.","url":"https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/sites/default/files/store_products/Rain%20Barrel%20Guide%202022%20WEB_a11y.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Nonpotable water utilized for water closet and urinal flushing applications shall be filtered by a 100-micron or finer filter.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/FLPC2023P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Stored rainwater is not potable water and should not be used for drinking, bathing, pets, on edible plants, or for recreation.","url":"https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/sites/default/files/store_products/Rain%20Barrel%20Guide%202022%20WEB_a11y.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"A rain barrel can be an integral part of any Florida-friendly landscape by conserving potable water, reducing stormwater runoff, and providing plants with a natural source of water.","url":"https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/sites/default/files/store_products/Rain%20Barrel%20Guide%202022%20WEB_a11y.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"GA","name":"Georgia","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state volume cap and no state rule on simple rain barrels. Plumbed rainwater systems are governed by the Georgia State Minimum Standard Plumbing Code, which since January 1, 2026 is the 2024 International Plumbing Code with Georgia amendments (none of which change the rainwater section). IPC Section 1303 covers rainwater collection for nonpotable applications as permitted by the jurisdiction: collection only from above-ground impervious roofs (or approved parking/walking surfaces), debris excluders, first-flush diverters, labelled nonpotable storage and outlets, and backflow protection of any potable makeup connection.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"IPC 1301.4 (adopted unamended in Georgia) requires permits for constructing, installing, altering or repairing nonpotable water systems, including plumbed rainwater systems; the local building department (authority having jurisdiction) issues them. No permit rule found for a stand-alone rain barrel feeding a hose or watering can.","allowedUses":["Nonpotable uses. UGA Extension lists washing vehicles, landscape irrigation, livestock and wildlife watering, cooling towers and toilet flushing; Georgia Adopt-A-Stream (EPD program) lists watering lawns, gardens and indoor plants for rain barrels."],"potableRules":"The plumbing code's rainwater section covers nonpotable applications only. UGA Extension (2013) states Georgia plumbing codes do not permit harvested rainwater for potable applications; the 2026 Georgia amendments add no potable rainwater provision.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Georgia State Minimum Standard Plumbing Code = International Plumbing Code 2024 with Georgia State Amendments (DCA, revised/effective January 1, 2026)","IPC 2024 Sections 1301.4 (permits) and 1303.1-1303.2 (rainwater collection and conveyance systems)","O.C.G.A. 12-5-4 (state agencies to identify opportunities to \"Encourage the use of rain water and gray water, where appropriate, in lieu of potable water\" - policy directive, not an authorisation)","O.C.G.A. 48-7-40.29 (income tax credit for water efficient equipment incl. rain water storage systems - never available: credit limited to federal funds granted for it, delayed effective date)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://dca.georgia.gov/document/document/ipc-2026-amendment-packet/download","title":"Georgia State Amendments to the International Plumbing Code (2024 Edition), Georgia DCA, revised January 1, 2026","section":"Adoption statement; Chapter 13 amendments (only 1304.3.2 reclaimed water)"},{"url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems","title":"2024 International Plumbing Code, Chapter 13 Nonpotable Water Systems (ICC)","section":"1301.4, 1303.1, 1303.2"},{"url":"https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B1372","title":"Rainwater Harvesting for System Designers and Contractors, UGA Extension Bulletin 1372 (2013)","section":"Introduction"},{"url":"https://adoptastream.georgia.gov/rain-barrels-0","title":"Rain Barrels - Georgia Adopt-A-Stream (Georgia EPD)","section":"Rain barrels"}],"quotes":[{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications, as permitted by the jurisdiction.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"Permits shall be required for the construction, installation, alteration and repair of nonpotable water systems.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"In Georgia, non-potable harvested rainwater can be an alternative water supply for uses such as washing vehicles, landscape irrigation, livestock and wildlife watering, cooling towers and toilet flushing.","url":"https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B1372"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Using collected rainwater to water lawns, gardens, or indoor plants is cost effective","url":"https://adoptastream.georgia.gov/rain-barrels-0"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Georgia plumbing codes do not permit harvested rainwater to be used for potable applications.","url":"https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B1372"},{"field":"limits","text":"The INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, 2024 Edition, published by the International Code Council, when used in conjunction with these and any other Georgia State Amendments to the INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, 2024 EDITION, shall constitute the official Georgia State Minimum Standard Plumbing Code.","url":"https://dca.georgia.gov/document/document/ipc-2026-amendment-packet/download"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Using collected rainwater to water lawns, gardens, or indoor plants is cost effective","url":"https://adoptastream.georgia.gov/rain-barrels-0"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"HI","name":"Hawaii","status":"legal_by_statute","limits":"No volume cap. Act 209 (2026) requires every county to permit rainwater catchment systems for potable and nonpotable uses on all properties, whether or not connected to a county water system. Counties may require registration, inspection or notification where necessary to protect public health or water quality, but may not unreasonably restrict or prohibit catchment.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No state permit. Under Act 209 (effective July 1, 2026) a county MAY require registration, inspection or notification; check the county building/water department. Hawaii DOH does not regulate catchment systems on individual homes.","allowedUses":["Potable and nonpotable uses, including irrigation, toilet flushing, cleaning and landscape watering (statutory definition)."],"potableRules":"Home catchment systems are not regulated by the Department of Health. DOH recommends following the UH CTAHR 'Guidelines on Rainwater Catchment Systems for Hawaii', installing certified filtration/treatment, and passing a screening test (E. coli, turbidity, lead, copper) at a DOH-certified lab. Catchment serving a regulated public water system follows DOH's separate 'Guidelines for Regulated Rain Catchment Systems'.","incentives":[{"name":"Board of Water Supply (Honolulu) Water Sensible Residential Rain Barrel Rebate","type":"rebate","amount":"$40 (cannot exceed purchase price)","eligibility":"Honolulu BWS customers (Oahu) who buy and use a 55-gallon rain barrel from a retailer; barrels bought from BWS do not qualify","url":"https://www.watersensible.org/residential-rebates/","level":"local"},{"name":"DOH subsidized lead and copper testing for rainwater catchment homes","type":"grant","amount":"Owner pays $25 plus shipping; DOH pays the remaining analysis cost; once per year","eligibility":"Owner or user of a legal dwelling served by a rainwater catchment system, using the participating DOH-approved lab","url":"https://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/raincatchment/","level":"state"}],"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Act 209, Session Laws of Hawaii 2026 (H.B. 1728, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, C.D. 1), new section in HRS ch. 46 'Regulation of rainwater catchment systems' (section number not yet assigned). Approved by the Governor July 8, 2026; the enrolled act's effective-date clause reads July 1, 2026.","HRS 46-1.5(13) and (14)(A)(ii) (county powers referenced)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/GM1311_.pdf","title":"Gov. Msg. No. 1311 - H.B. 1728 C.D.1 signed as Act 209 (with enrolled bill text)","section":"HRS ch. 46 new section 'Regulation of rainwater catchment systems' (a)-(c)"},{"url":"https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/HB1728_CD1_.htm","title":"HB1728 CD1 bill text","section":"Section 2"},{"url":"https://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/raincatchment/","title":"Hawaii DOH Safe Drinking Water Branch - Rainwater Catchment","section":"How to make a home rainwater catchment system safe for domestic use"},{"url":"https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/raincatchment","title":"Honolulu Board of Water Supply - Rain Catchment","section":"Residential Rain Barrel Catchment Rebate"},{"url":"https://www.watersensible.org/residential-rebates/","title":"BWS Water Sensible Rebate Program - Residential Rebates","section":"Residential Rain Barrel"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"each county shall permit the installation and operation of rainwater catchment systems for potable and nonpotable uses on all properties, regardless of whether the property is connected to a county water system.","url":"https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/GM1311_.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"Each county may require registration, inspection, or notification of rainwater catchment systems where necessary to protect public health or water quality but shall not unreasonably restrict or prohibit their use.","url":"https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/GM1311_.pdf"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"Rainwater catchment systems on individual homes are not regulated by the Department of Health (DOH).","url":"https://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/raincatchment/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"collect and store rainwater from rooftops or other surfaces for potable and nonpotable use, including irrigation, toilet flushing, cleaning, and landscape watering.","url":"https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/GM1311_.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"DOH recommends that system owners implement the following actions: Follow the recommendations contained in: “Guidelines on Rainwater Catchment System for Hawaii” by the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.","url":"https://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/raincatchment/"},{"field":"incentives","text":"SAVE WATER and get a $40 rebate when you buy and use a rain barrel.","url":"https://www.watersensible.org/residential-rebates/"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Note: Barrels purchased from BWS do not qualify for Water Sensible rebates.","url":"https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/raincatchment"},{"field":"incentives","text":"The owner must pay for the shipping of the sample and $25.00 for the analyses. The DOH will be billed for the remaining cost of the analyses.","url":"https://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/raincatchment/"},{"field":"limits","text":"This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.","url":"https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/GM1311_.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"This is to inform you that on July 8, 2026, the following bill was signed into law:","url":"https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/GM1311_.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"DOH – Safe Drinking Water Branch currently subsidizes the testing for lead and copper in individual homes served by rainwater catchment systems.","url":"https://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/raincatchment/"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[{"title":"Act 209 (2026) and its effective date","text":"Act 209's effective-date section reads July 1, 2026, but the governor approved it on July 8, 2026, so in practice it applies from approval. It requires every county to permit rainwater catchment for drinking and non-drinking uses on all properties. Counties may require registration, inspection or notification to protect health or water quality, but may not unreasonably restrict or prohibit catchment."}]},{"code":"ID","name":"Idaho","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No statute or rule caps rooftop collection. IDWR guidance treats rain and snowmelt runoff captured before it reaches a natural watercourse as 'diffused surface water', which is not public water and needs no water right. Condition: if the runoff feeds a natural watercourse and your use significantly depletes that supply, a senior water-right holder may seek to stop it.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No water right permit needed for capturing diffused surface water (IDWR guidance). A system plumbed into a building falls under the Idaho State Plumbing Code (2015 UPC), where normal plumbing permitting applies.","allowedUses":["Any use by the landowner before the water enters a natural watercourse (IDWR guidance); plumbed nonpotable uses follow UPC Chapter 16; potable use follows UPC Appendix K (adopted in Idaho)."],"potableRules":"Idaho adopts the 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code including Appendix K (Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems) as the Idaho State Plumbing Code, so a plumbed potable catchment system must meet Appendix K.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Idaho is a prior-appropriation state: public waters may be used only under a water right (Idaho Code 42-201(2)). IDWR's position is that diffused surface water (precipitation and snowmelt before it enters a natural watercourse) is not public water and is not subject to appropriation, so rooftop collection needs no water right, unless it significantly depletes a supply feeding a stream and injures a senior appropriator.","citations":["Idaho Code 42-201(2) (water right required to use public waters)","IDWR Administrator's Memorandum, Application Processing No. 67, 'Permitting Requirements for Ponds' (Feb. 28, 2003; guidance document, Feb. 2020 header)","IDAPA 24.39.20.600 (Idaho State Plumbing Code adopts 2015 UPC incl. Appendix K)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://idwr.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/legal/guidance/Application-Processing-Memo-67.pdf","title":"IDWR Application Processing Memo No. 67 - Permitting Requirements for Ponds","section":"Diffused Surface Water"},{"url":"https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title42/t42ch2/sect42-201/","title":"Idaho Code 42-201","section":"(2)"},{"url":"https://adminrules.idaho.gov/rules/current/24/243920.pdf","title":"IDAPA 24.39.20 Rules Governing Plumbing","section":"600. Idaho State Plumbing Code"},{"url":"https://codes.iapmo.org/docs/2015/UPC/2015%20UPC%20Table%20of%20Contents.pdf","title":"2015 Uniform Plumbing Code - Table of Contents (IAPMO)","section":"Chapter 16 Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems; Appendix K Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"Diffused surface water is not considered to be public water and is therefore not subject to appropriation.","url":"https://idwr.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/legal/guidance/Application-Processing-Memo-67.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"if the diffused surface water is a source of supply to a natural watercourse and the landowner's use significantly depletes that supply, it may cause injury to a senior appropriator who may seek to enjoin the use.","url":"https://idwr.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/legal/guidance/Application-Processing-Memo-67.pdf"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"A water right permit is not required to construct and use a pond with diffused surface water as its sole source","url":"https://idwr.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/legal/guidance/Application-Processing-Memo-67.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"A landowner is entitled to capture and use diffused surface water before it enters a natural stream, lake or other public source.","url":"https://idwr.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/legal/guidance/Application-Processing-Memo-67.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"the Board adopts, as the Idaho State Plumbing Code (ISPC), the 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code, including Appendices A, B, C, D, E, G, I, J, K and L","url":"https://adminrules.idaho.gov/rules/current/24/243920.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Appendix K Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems","url":"https://codes.iapmo.org/docs/2015/UPC/2015%20UPC%20Table%20of%20Contents.pdf"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"No person shall divert any water from a natural watercourse or apply water to land without having obtained a valid water right to do so","url":"https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title42/t42ch2/sect42-201/"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Diffused surface water is water on the surface of the land from precipitation and snowmelt prior to entering a natural watercourse.","url":"https://idwr.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/legal/guidance/Application-Processing-Memo-67.pdf"},{"field":"status","text":"This Guidance Document is not new law but is an agency interpretation of existing law.","url":"https://idwr.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/legal/guidance/Application-Processing-Memo-67.pdf"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"the Board adopts, as the Idaho State Plumbing Code (ISPC), the 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code, including Appendices A, B, C, D, E, G, I, J, K and L","url":"https://adminrules.idaho.gov/rules/current/24/243920.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"permit","special":[]},{"code":"IL","name":"Illinois","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state statute or rule limits residential rain barrels or cisterns. The current Illinois Plumbing Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 890, last amended 2014) has no rainwater harvesting subpart; IDPH proposed one and then removed it from the rulemaking.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state permit for rain barrels found. A system plumbed into a building would fall under the Illinois Plumbing Code (licensed plumbing, cross-connection control) and local permitting, but no rainwater-specific permit rule exists.","allowedUses":["No state rule defines allowed uses. MWRD of Greater Chicago (local agency) suggests washing cars, watering lawns/gardens and cleaning boots, tools and bikes."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":[{"name":"MWRD of Greater Chicago discounted barrel sale","type":"discounted barrel sale","amount":"Barrels sold at $22.30 each incl. tax and delivery ($11.15 for age 65+); limit 2 per household","eligibility":"Cook County residents, while supplies last","url":"https://mwrd.org/community-action/rain-barrels","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["225 ILCS 320/35 (Illinois Plumbing License Law; Department's minimum plumbing code - contains no rainwater provision)","77 Ill. Adm. Code 890 (Illinois Plumbing Code; no rainwater subpart as of 2026)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":false,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.ilga.gov/agencies/JCAR/Sections?PartID=07700890","title":"77 Ill. Adm. Code Part 890 Illinois Plumbing Code - section listing (ILGA/JCAR)","section":"Subparts A-M, Appendices; source note last amended eff. April 24, 2014"},{"url":"https://dph.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idph/files/77-iac-890-dph-response-to-comments.pdf","title":"IDPH Department Responses to Comments - Illinois Plumbing Code rulemaking","section":"Comments #6, #17, #28, #35"},{"url":"https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/ILCS/Articles?ActID=1343&ChapAct=225%C2%A0ILCS%C2%A0320%2F&ChapterID=24&ChapterName=PROFESSIONS+AND+OCCUPATIONS&ActName=Illinois+Plumbing+License+Law.&Print=True","title":"225 ILCS 320 Illinois Plumbing License Law (full text)","section":"Sec. 2, Sec. 35"},{"url":"https://mwrd.org/community-action/rain-barrels","title":"MWRD Greater Chicago - Rain Barrels","section":"Discounted rain barrels"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"The Department appreciates the comment and support. However, the proposed Subpart O has been removed from this rulemaking.","url":"https://dph.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idph/files/77-iac-890-dph-response-to-comments.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"You can use rain barrel water to: Wash your car Water your lawn or garden Clean work boots, tools and bikes","url":"https://mwrd.org/community-action/rain-barrels"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Discounted rain barrels are available to Cook County residents while supplies last. Rain Barrels are $22.30 each including tax and delivery and $11.15 each for age 65+.","url":"https://mwrd.org/community-action/rain-barrels"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Limit 2 per household.","url":"https://mwrd.org/community-action/rain-barrels"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"IN","name":"Indiana","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state statute or rule caps or regulates residential rain barrels or cisterns. The Indiana Plumbing Code (675 IAC 16-1.4, based on the 2006 International Plumbing Code) has no rainwater harvesting chapter.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No rainwater-specific state permit found. Any system plumbed into a building would fall under the Indiana Plumbing Code and local permitting, but the code contains no rainwater provisions.","allowedUses":["No state rule defines uses. IDEM (state agency) guidance describes rain barrel water for composting, gardens and lawn."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["675 IAC 16-1.4 (2012 Indiana Plumbing Code; adopts 2006 International Plumbing Code with amendments - no rainwater chapter)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":false,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/title-675/article-16/rule-675-IAC-16-1.4","title":"675 IAC 16-1.4 2012 Indiana Plumbing Code - section list (Cornell LII)","section":"16-1.4-1 through 16-1.4-22"},{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/675-IAC-16-1.4-1","title":"675 IAC 16-1.4-1 Adoption by reference","section":"(a)"},{"url":"https://www.in.gov/idem/health/greening-our-backyards/rain-barrels/","title":"IDEM Community Environmental Health: Rain Barrels","section":"Benefits; where to buy"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"being titled the International Plumbing Code, 2006 edition, second printing, published by the International Code Council, Inc.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/675-IAC-16-1.4-1"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Rain barrel water can be used as a water source for composting, gardens, and lawn.","url":"https://www.in.gov/idem/health/greening-our-backyards/rain-barrels/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Harvested water is stored in the rain barrel for future use on your garden and lawn.","url":"https://www.in.gov/idem/health/greening-our-backyards/rain-barrels/"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Using rain barrel-harvested water reduces or eliminates using treated water, which saves energy and resources required to treat water to be safe for human use.","url":"https://www.in.gov/idem/health/greening-our-backyards/rain-barrels/"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"IA","name":"Iowa","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No statute or rule specific to rain barrels or cap on volume. A system plumbed into a building must meet the state plumbing code (2024 Uniform Plumbing Code, Chapters 2-17 adopted, which includes the UPC's nonpotable rainwater catchment chapter). Separately, a state water-use permit is required only for diverting, storing or withdrawing 25,000 gallons per day or more from a surface or groundwater source; uses under that are 'nonregulated'.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No state water permit for residential-scale use: Iowa Code 455B.268 requires a permit except for a 'nonregulated use' (under 25,000 gallons per day). Plumbing permits/inspection for plumbed systems are administered by local jurisdictions, not the state (481 IAC 425.4(1)).","allowedUses":["Not defined by state law. Outdoor/landscape use of rain barrels is the common case (local city programs). Plumbed nonpotable uses follow the adopted UPC."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":[{"name":"City of Ankeny Stormwater Best Management Practices Reimbursement Program - rain barrel","type":"rebate","amount":"Up to $75","eligibility":"Installation of a rain barrel on private property in Ankeny","url":"https://ankenyiowa.gov/371/Rainwater-Harvesting","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":"Iowa uses a regulated-riparian permit system run by DNR: a permit is needed to divert, store or withdraw water from a surface or groundwater source except for a 'nonregulated use' under 25,000 gallons per day. Iowa Code 455B.261 separately defines 'diffused waters' (precipitation and snowmelt not part of a watercourse). Household rooftop collection is far below the permit threshold.","citations":["Iowa Code 455B.261(6), (11) (definitions: diffused waters; nonregulated use)","Iowa Code 455B.268 (when water-use permit required)","481 IAC 425.1 and 425.4 (State Plumbing Code: adopts 2024 UPC Sections 101-102, Chapters 2-17, Appendices A and M)","2024 Uniform Plumbing Code Chapter 16 (Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems), adopted via 481 IAC 425.1"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/455B.268.pdf","title":"Iowa Code 2026, Section 455B.268 - When permit required","section":"455B.268(1)"},{"url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/455B.261.pdf","title":"Iowa Code Section 455B.261 - Definitions","section":"(6) Diffused waters; (11) Nonregulated use"},{"url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/481.425.pdf","title":"481 IAC Chapter 425 State Plumbing Code","section":"425.1 Adoption; 425.4(1)"},{"url":"https://ankenyiowa.gov/371/Rainwater-Harvesting","title":"City of Ankeny - Rainwater Harvesting","section":"Rain Barrels"},{"url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2024/UPC/","title":"2024 Uniform Plumbing Code (IAPMO official e-book) - table of contents","section":"Chapter 16 Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems; Appendix K"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"Sections 101 and 102, Chapters 2 to 17 and Appendices A and M of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), 2024 Edition","url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/481.425.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"Except for a nonregulated use, a person diverting, storing, or withdrawing water from any surface or groundwater source.","url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/455B.268.pdf"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"“Nonregulated use” means any beneficial use of water by any person of less than twenty-five thousand gallons per day.","url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/455B.261.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Permit, inspection, testing, and enforcement provisions contained in this code are not administered by the Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board or the state.","url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/481.425.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Rain barrels are one of the simplest conservation practices you can use to help protect neighboring streams, rivers, or lakes.","url":"https://ankenyiowa.gov/371/Rainwater-Harvesting"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"“Diffused waters” means waters from precipitation and snowmelt which is not a part of any watercourse or basin including capillary soil water.","url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/455B.261.pdf"},{"field":"incentives","text":"The City of Ankeny Stormwater Best Management Practices Reimbursement Program can provide up to $75 reimbursement for the installation of a rain barrel on private property.","url":"https://ankenyiowa.gov/371/Rainwater-Harvesting"},{"field":"limits","text":"Chapter 16 Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems","url":"https://epubs.iapmo.org/2024/UPC/"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Sections 101 and 102, Chapters 2 to 17 and Appendices A and M of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), 2024 Edition","url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/481.425.pdf"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"KS","name":"Kansas","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No statute or regulation mentions rainwater harvesting or rain barrels. The Kansas Water Appropriation Act dedicates 'all water within the state' to the people under state regulation and requires a permit for any new appropriation other than domestic use. Domestic use (household purposes, farm/domestic animals, and irrigating up to 2 acres of gardens, orchards and lawns) needs no permit.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No permit for domestic use (K.S.A. 82a-705; KDA-DWR Water Law Basics). Whether rooftop runoff is 'water' needing an appropriation permit for NON-domestic uses (e.g., irrigating more than 2 acres or commercial use) is not stated in any official source found; such users should ask KDA-DWR.","allowedUses":["Domestic uses need no permit: household purposes, watering livestock/poultry/farm and domestic animals, and irrigating up to two acres of gardens, orchards and lawns."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Kansas is a prior-appropriation ('first in time - first in right') state. It is illegal to use water without a vested right or a DWR permit, except water used solely for domestic purposes. The Act does not single out rainwater, so a homeowner's rain barrels for house, lawn and garden fall within the domestic exemption either way.","citations":["K.S.A. 82a-701(c) (definition of domestic uses)","K.S.A. 82a-702 (all water dedicated to the people, subject to state regulation)","K.S.A. 82a-705 (approval required for new appropriation other than domestic use)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch82a/082a_007_0001.html","title":"K.S.A. 82a-701 Definitions","section":"(c)"},{"url":"https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch82a/082a_007_0002.html","title":"K.S.A. 82a-702 Dedication of use of water","section":"full"},{"url":"https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch82a/082a_007_0005.html","title":"K.S.A. 82a-705 Acquisition of a new appropriation right","section":"full"},{"url":"https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/division-of-water-resources/water-appropriation/water-law-basics","title":"KDA Division of Water Resources - Water Law Basics","section":"Why Do I Need a Water Right?"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"All water within the state of Kansas is hereby dedicated to the use of the people of the state, subject to the control and regulation of the state in the manner herein prescribed.","url":"https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch82a/082a_007_0002.html"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"No person shall have the power or authority to acquire a new appropriation right to the use of water for other than domestic use without first obtaining the approval of the chief engineer","url":"https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch82a/082a_007_0005.html"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"water primarily used for the household, watering livestock on pasture, or watering up to two acres of lawn and gardens. No permit is needed for that class of water usage.","url":"https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/division-of-water-resources/water-appropriation/water-law-basics"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"for household purposes, or for the watering of livestock, poultry, farm and domestic animals used in operating a farm, and for the irrigation of lands not exceeding a total of two acres","url":"https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch82a/082a_007_0001.html"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"It is illegal for individuals in Kansas to use water without holding a vested right or applying for, and receiving a permit to appropriate water from the Division of Water Resources.","url":"https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/division-of-water-resources/water-appropriation/water-law-basics"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"KY","name":"Kentucky","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No statute or regulation addresses residential rain barrels or cisterns specifically. The state plumbing code allows nonpotable water for flushing toilets/urinals if piped in an independent, labelled system, and requires cisterns and tanks exposed to freezing to be protected. The state water-withdrawal permit covers public water taken from streams, lakes, groundwater or other bodies of water, and never applies to agricultural or domestic use.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"KRS 151.140: no withdrawal permit for agricultural and domestic purposes including irrigation (and none below the regulatory threshold). Plumbed indoor systems must meet the Kentucky State Plumbing Code (815 KAR Chapter 20), which carries its own installation permits (815 KAR 20:050).","allowedUses":["Outdoor/domestic use (no state rule restricting it). Indoor: nonpotable water may flush water closets or urinals if piped in an independent system, labelled 'NONPOTABLE WATER', with any drinking/domestic outlet posted 'DANGER - UNSAFE WATER'."],"potableRules":"No rainwater-specific potable rule found. The plumbing code requires the potable supply to be protected from nonpotable water by cross-connection controls and separate piping.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Kentucky is a riparian state with a statutory withdrawal-permit system for public water (streams, lakes, groundwater). Domestic and agricultural uses, including irrigation, are exempt by statute.","citations":["KRS 151.140 (withdrawal of public water; permit exceptions for agricultural and domestic use)","815 KAR 20:120 Section 4(3) (nonpotable water for water closets/urinals in independent system)","815 KAR 20:120 (cisterns and tanks subject to freezing must be protected)","815 KAR 20:120 (potable supply protected from nonpotable contamination via cross connection)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":false,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=2086","title":"KRS 151.140 Withdrawal of water from public waters, permit required -- Exceptions","section":"full"},{"url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/020/120/","title":"815 KAR 20:120 Water supply and distribution","section":"Section 4 Distribution; freeze protection"},{"url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/Law/kar/titles/815/020/","title":"815 KAR Chapter 20 Plumbing - regulation list","section":"all regulations"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitRequired","text":"no permit shall be required for and nothing herein shall interfere with the use of water for agricultural and domestic purposes including irrigation","url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=2086"},{"field":"limits","text":"A concealed water pipe, storage tank, cistern, or other exposed pipe or tank subject to freezing temperatures shall be protected against freezing.","url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/020/120/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Nonpotable water may be used for flushing a water closet or urinal, if the water is piped in an independent system.","url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/020/120/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"An outlet on the nonpotable water distribution system used for a drinking or domestic purpose shall be permanently posted: DANGER - UNSAFE WATER.","url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/020/120/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"The potable water supply system shall be designed, installed, and maintained to prevent contamination from a nonpotable liquid, solid, or gas being introduced into the potable water supply through a cross connection","url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/kar/titles/815/020/120/"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"shall have the right to withdraw, divert, or transfer public water from a stream, lake, ground water source or other body of water, unless","url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=2086"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"no permit shall be required if the amount of water withdrawn, diverted or transferred is less than the amount established by regulation","url":"https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=2086"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"LA","name":"Louisiana","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No statute or rule limits residential rain barrels or cisterns. The Louisiana State Plumbing Code (LAC 51:XIV) has no rainwater harvesting chapter. The only rainwater-specific rule found is in the Sanitary Code water-supply part: cisterns used for potable water need a first-flush 'rain water cut-off', a tight cover and 18-mesh screening.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state permit rule for rain barrels or cisterns found. Plumbed systems would fall under the Louisiana State Plumbing Code and local plumbing permits, but the code has no rainwater provisions.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":"LAC 51:XII-337(B): cisterns used for potable water must have a rain water cut-off to divert the first roof washings, be tightly covered, and be screened with 18-mesh wire screen; tank interior coatings must be nontoxic (AWWA D102) under 337(D). This sits in the chapter on water quality standards for public water systems, so its application to a single private home is not certain.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["LAC 51:XII-337(B) (Sanitary Code, Water Supplies - Storage: cisterns used for potable water)","LAC 51:XIV (Louisiana State Plumbing Code - no rainwater harvesting chapter)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XII-337","title":"La. Admin. Code tit. 51, XII-337 Storage (Cornell LII)","section":"B"},{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XII-301","title":"La. Admin. Code tit. 51, XII-301 Mandatory Water Quality Standards for Public Water Systems","section":"A (chapter scope)"},{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/title-51/part-XIV","title":"LAC 51:XIV Plumbing - chapter list (Cornell LII)","section":"Chapters 1-18"},{"url":"https://ldh.la.gov/assets/oph/Center-EH/engineering/Plumbing/Part_XIV_LA_State_Plumbing_Code.pdf","title":"LDH - Louisiana State Plumbing Code (LAC 51:XIV)","section":"full text searched"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"Cisterns used for potable water shall be provided with a rain water cut-off, suitable to deflect the first washings of the roof and prevent contamination of the water.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XII-337"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Cisterns shall be tightly covered, and screened with 18-mesh wire screen.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XII-337"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Each public water supply shall comply with the maximum contaminant levels, maximum residual disinfectant levels, and treatment technique requirements","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XII-301"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Cisterns used for potable water shall be provided with a rain water cut-off, suitable to deflect the first washings of the roof and prevent contamination of the water.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XII-337"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"ME","name":"Maine","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No statute or rule limits residential rain barrels. Maine's plumbing rules adopt the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code with listed exclusions; the UPC's nonpotable rainwater catchment chapter (Chapter 16) is not among the exclusions, so a rainwater system plumbed into a building must follow it. The UPC appendices (including the potable rainwater appendix) are not adopted.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No rain-barrel permit rule found. Plumbing installations (Maine's 'plumbing system' definition expressly includes alternate water sources) require compliance with the adopted UPC and local plumbing inspection/permitting.","allowedUses":["Not defined by state law for barrels. Plumbed nonpotable uses follow UPC Chapter 16 as adopted in Maine."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["02-395 C.M.R. ch. 4, s. 1 (Plumbers' Examining Board: adopts 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code with exclusions and amendments; effective Jan. 1, 2022; appendices not adopted; 'Plumbing System' definition amended to include alternate water sources)","2021 Uniform Plumbing Code Chapter 16 (Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems), adopted via 02-395 C.M.R. ch. 4 (not excluded)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maine/02-395-C-M-R-ch-4-SS-1","title":"02-395 C.M.R. ch. 4, s. 1 Plumbing Installations (Cornell LII)","section":"Section 1 adoption; 102.8 Appendices; 218.0 Plumbing System; Chapters 12-13 exclusions"},{"url":"https://codes.iapmo.org/docs/2021/UPC/2021%20UPC%20Table%20of%20Contents.pdf","title":"2021 Uniform Plumbing Code - Table of Contents (IAPMO PDF)","section":"Chapter 16 Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"adopts and incorporates herein by reference the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maine/02-395-C-M-R-ch-4-SS-1"},{"field":"limits","text":"The board does not adopt the provisions in the appendices as part of the code.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maine/02-395-C-M-R-ch-4-SS-1"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Plumbing System. Includes all potable water, alternate water sources, building supply, and distribution pipes","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maine/02-395-C-M-R-ch-4-SS-1"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"NONPOTABLE RAINWATER CATCHMENT SYSTEMS","url":"https://codes.iapmo.org/docs/2021/UPC/2021%20UPC%20Table%20of%20Contents.pdf"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"adopts and incorporates herein by reference the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maine/02-395-C-M-R-ch-4-SS-1"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"MD","name":"Maryland","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state law caps or restricts residential rain collection. Two state rules touch rainwater without authorising homeowner collection as such: (1) the stormwater regulations list rainwater harvesting as an Environmental Site Design practice for meeting development stormwater requirements; (2) the state plumbing code adopts the most recent International Plumbing Code, whose Section 1303 governs plumbed nonpotable rainwater collection systems (roof collection surfaces, debris excluders, automatic first-flush diverters, labelled nonpotable outlets). Domestic water use needs no state appropriation permit.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No MDE water appropriation permit for domestic uses other than heating or cooling (COMAR 26.17.06.03B(4)). Plumbed indoor/nonpotable systems are subject to the IPC as adopted by the Maryland Board of Plumbing and local plumbing permits/inspection. Rain barrels installed for a county rebate (e.g., RainScapes) require a final inspection for the rebate, not a permit.","allowedUses":["Outdoor use; nonpotable applications through a plumbed system built to IPC Section 1303 'as permitted by the jurisdiction'; rainwater harvesting as a stormwater-management (ESD) practice."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":[{"name":"Montgomery County DEP RainScapes Rewards - rain barrel rebate and water harvesting (cistern) rebate","type":"rebate","amount":"$1 per gallon. Rain barrel rebate: max $250 residential ($250 commercial/institutional). Water harvesting (cistern) rebate: max $750 residential ($2,000 commercial/institutional).","eligibility":"Private property in Montgomery County outside Rockville, Gaithersburg and Takoma Park; minimum 200 gallons per project (100 for townhomes), 50-gallon minimum per container; above ground; HOA approval letter if applicable; location plan","url":"https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/propertycare/rainscapes/rainscapes-water-harvesting/requirements-qualify-rain-barrel-rebate","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":"Maryland uses a state water appropriation permit system (MDE) for surface and ground water, but domestic uses other than heating/cooling are exempt from permits.","citations":["COMAR 26.17.02.08 (Stormwater Management Measures; ESD treatment practices include rainwater harvesting)","COMAR 26.17.06.03B(4) (no water appropriation permit for domestic uses other than heating or cooling)","COMAR 09.20.01.01B(1) (State Plumbing Code adopts most recent International Plumbing Code; amended eff. Nov. 24, 2025)","International Plumbing Code (2024) Section 1303 Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/26.17.02.08","title":"COMAR 26.17.02.08 Stormwater Management Measures","section":"(2)(d)"},{"url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/26.17.06.03","title":"COMAR 26.17.06.03 Water Appropriation or Use - Scope and Applicability","section":"B(4)"},{"url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/09.20.01.01","title":"COMAR 09.20.01.01 Incorporation by Reference (State Plumbing Code)","section":"B(1)"},{"url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024V2.0/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems","title":"2024 International Plumbing Code Chapter 13 Nonpotable Water Systems (ICC)","section":"1303.1-1303.4"},{"url":"https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/propertycare/rainscapes/rainscapes-water-harvesting/requirements-qualify-rain-barrel-rebate","title":"Montgomery County DEP - Requirements to Qualify for a Rain Barrel Rebate","section":"Rebate Amounts"},{"url":"https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/propertycare/rainscapes/rainscapes-water-harvesting/requirements-qualify-water-harvesting-rebate","title":"Montgomery County DEP - Requirements to Qualify for a Water Harvesting Rebate","section":"Rebate Amounts"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"(2) The following ESD treatment practices shall be designed according to the Design Manual to satisfy the minimum control requirements established in Regulation .06 of this chapter","url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/26.17.02.08"},{"field":"limits","text":"(d) Rainwater harvesting;","url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/26.17.02.08"},{"field":"limits","text":"the Board adopts the most recent version of the following Codes as they may be amended, modified, or updated from time to time. (1) The International Plumbing Code","url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/09.20.01.01"},{"field":"limits","text":"Rainwater shall be collected only from above-ground impervious roofing surfaces constructed from approved materials and where approved, vehicular parking or pedestrian walking surfaces.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024V2.0/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications, as permitted by the jurisdiction.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024V2.0/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"A person is not required to obtain a permit from the Department if that person is appropriating or using water for:","url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/26.17.06.03"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"(4) Domestic uses other than for heating or cooling","url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/26.17.06.03"},{"field":"incentives","text":"$1 PER GALLON Maximum rebate: Residential: $250 • Commercial/Institutional: $250","url":"https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/propertycare/rainscapes/rainscapes-water-harvesting/requirements-qualify-rain-barrel-rebate"},{"field":"incentives","text":"$1 PER GALLON Maximum rebate: Residential - $750 • Commercial/Institutional - $2,000","url":"https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/propertycare/rainscapes/rainscapes-water-harvesting/requirements-qualify-water-harvesting-rebate"},{"field":"incentives","text":"properties must be located within Montgomery County but outside of the municipalities of Rockville, Gaithersburg, and Takoma Park.","url":"https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/propertycare/rainscapes/rainscapes-water-harvesting/requirements-qualify-rain-barrel-rebate"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"A person appropriating or using surface water or ground water for domestic heating or cooling.","url":"https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/26.17.06.03"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"The provisions of Section 1303 shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024V2.0/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"MA","name":"Massachusetts","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state volume or barrel cap for rain barrels. A plumbed rainwater reuse system counts as a 'water recycling system' under the state Plumbing Board's 2018 policy statement: a residential/small system has a maximum flow of 400 gallons per day and 'shall generally adhere' to listed characteristics, must be filtered/treated, must not cross-connect with potable plumbing, and needs Board special permission before a local plumbing permit.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"Simple rain barrels: no state permit rule found; MassDEP's rain barrel guide gives do-it-yourself steps and mentions no permit. Plumbed rainwater systems (e.g. toilet flushing, indoor use, irrigation piping): need special permission from the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters first, then a plumbing permit and inspection from the local Inspector of Plumbing. External irrigation may also need MassDEP, MWRA or local board of health approval.","allowedUses":["MassDEP guidance: watering gardens or lawns, washing cars, filling swimming pools and other household chores. Plumbed systems approved by the Plumbing Board: external or internal irrigation, composting, liquid cooling systems, flushing toilets and urinals."],"potableRules":"The Plumbing Board does not generally approve recycled-water systems (rainwater included) serving potable fixtures. Recycled-water piping must be purple and labeled 'non-potable water', toilet-flush water dyed blue, with backflow protection and air gaps so nothing cross-connects to the potable supply.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["248 CMR 10.14(j)(2) (special permission, cited by Board policy)","Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters, Policy Regarding the Installation of Water Recycling Systems (enacted April 4, 2018)","248 CMR 3.04 (product acceptance)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.mass.gov/guides/rain-barrels-and-other-water-conservation-tools","title":"Rain Barrels and Other Water Conservation Tools (MassDEP)","section":"What are rain barrels? / Where can I get a manufactured rain barrel?"},{"url":"https://www.mass.gov/policy-statement/installation-of-water-recycling-systems","title":"Installation of Water Recycling Systems - Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters policy (2018)","section":"2.A, 2.B, 3.A, 4.A-C"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"The collected water can be used to water gardens or lawns, wash cars, fill swimming pools or do other household chores.","url":"https://www.mass.gov/guides/rain-barrels-and-other-water-conservation-tools"},{"field":"limits","text":"A residential/small water recycling system, typically used for single and multifamily residences as well as small commercial environments, has a maximum flow of 400 gallons per day","url":"https://www.mass.gov/policy-statement/installation-of-water-recycling-systems"},{"field":"limits","text":"c. Natural precipitation such as rainwater and snow that has not been contaminated by use.","url":"https://www.mass.gov/policy-statement/installation-of-water-recycling-systems"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Special permission must be obtained from the Board prior to obtaining a permit to commence installation of a water recycling system from the Inspector of Plumbing","url":"https://www.mass.gov/policy-statement/installation-of-water-recycling-systems"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"At this time, the Board does not generally approve the use of a water recycling system to serve fixtures used as part of a potable water system, as such water must be safe for human consumption.","url":"https://www.mass.gov/policy-statement/installation-of-water-recycling-systems"},{"field":"status","text":"Rain barrels are a great way to conserve water and reduce storm water runoff. Use the collected water for household chores.","url":"https://www.mass.gov/guides/rain-barrels-and-other-water-conservation-tools"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Special permission must be obtained from the Board prior to obtaining a permit to commence installation of a water recycling system from the Inspector of Plumbing","url":"https://www.mass.gov/policy-statement/installation-of-water-recycling-systems"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Rain barrels are a great way to conserve water and reduce storm water runoff. Use the collected water for household chores.","url":"https://www.mass.gov/guides/rain-barrels-and-other-water-conservation-tools"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"MI","name":"Michigan","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state permit rule for rain barrels found. Plumbed rainwater systems fall under the state construction codes. The Michigan Plumbing Code (R 408.30701) adopts the 2021 IPC but excludes sections 1301 to 1304.4.2, which removes the IPC nonpotable-water chapter, including its rainwater collection section, for buildings under that code. The Michigan Residential Code (R 408.30500, one- and two-family homes) adopts the 2021 IRC without excluding its nonpotable rainwater sections (its exclusion list, read in full, does not include P2912 'Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems'). So a plumbed home system would be built and permitted under the residential code.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Mich. Admin. Code R 408.30701 (Michigan Plumbing Code; IPC 2021 sections 1301 to 1304.4.2 excluded)","Mich. Admin. Code R 408.30500 (Michigan Residential Code; IRC 2021 adopted, P3009 excluded)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.michigan.gov/lara/-/media/Project/Websites/lara/bcc-media/ASD/2022-56-LR-Part-7-Plumbing-Code/2021-Part-7-Michigan-Plumbing-Final-Rules---Effective-3-12-2024.pdf","title":"Part 7 Michigan Plumbing Code final rules (effective 3/12/2024)","section":"R 408.30701"},{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-408.30500","title":"Mich. Admin. Code R 408.30500 - Applicable code (effective 8/29/2025)","section":"Rule 500"},{"url":"https://www.michigan.gov/egle/public/egle-classroom/michigan-green-schools/guide/catalog/environmental-protection/rainwater-collection","title":"EGLE Michigan Green Schools - Rainwater collection","section":"general"},{"url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P1/chapter-29-water-supply-and-distribution","title":"2021 International Residential Code Chapter 29 (ICC)","section":"P2912 Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitNotes","text":"international plumbing code, 2021 second printing edition, including appendices B, C, D, and E, except for sections 103.1","url":"https://www.michigan.gov/lara/-/media/Project/Websites/lara/bcc-media/ASD/2022-56-LR-Part-7-Plumbing-Code/2021-Part-7-Michigan-Plumbing-Final-Rules---Effective-3-12-2024.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"1106.3, 1106.6, 1301 to 1304.4.2, 1401 to 1403.2.1","url":"https://www.michigan.gov/lara/-/media/Project/Websites/lara/bcc-media/ASD/2022-56-LR-Part-7-Plumbing-Code/2021-Part-7-Michigan-Plumbing-Final-Rules---Effective-3-12-2024.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"The provisions of the international residential code, 2021 edition, including appendices AA, AB, AC, AD, AE, AF, AG, AJ, AK, AN, AO, AP, AR, and AS except for Sections","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-408.30500"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"SECTION P2912 NONPOTABLE RAINWATER COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P1/chapter-29-water-supply-and-distribution"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"The provisions of this section shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P1/chapter-29-water-supply-and-distribution"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"To start collecting rainwater at school, first calculate how much capacity your rain barrel needs based on roof size.","url":"https://www.michigan.gov/egle/public/egle-classroom/michigan-green-schools/guide/catalog/environmental-protection/rainwater-collection"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"MN","name":"Minnesota","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No volume cap. Rain barrels and systems used only for lawn irrigation fall outside the plumbing code's rainwater chapter. Plumbed nonpotable systems (toilet/urinal flushing, trap primers, water features, vehicle washing, similar uses) must follow Minnesota Plumbing Code rules: roof-only collection, no direct connection to potable water, a 100-micron filter plus disinfection (3.5-log bacteria reduction), E. coli limit 2.2 MPN/100 mL, and treatment designed by a Minnesota-registered professional engineer.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"Lawn-irrigation-only systems (e.g. rain barrels) are not covered by the rainwater catchment chapter, so no plumbing permit under it. Systems supplying indoor or other nonpotable uses need state approval: no permit is issued until complete plumbing plans are submitted to and approved by the commissioner (Dept. of Labor and Industry), and a cross-connection test is needed before use. Irrigation combined with those uses must meet the chapter too.","allowedUses":["Outdoor lawn irrigation (outside the plumbing code's rainwater chapter); plumbed nonpotable uses with state approval: water closets, urinals, trap primers for floor drains and floor sinks, industrial processes, water features, vehicle washing facilities, cooling tower makeup and similar uses."],"potableRules":"The Minnesota Plumbing Code covers only nonpotable rainwater catchment. It incorporates UPC 2018 chapters 2-11, 16 and 17 and appendices A, B and I only, so the UPC potable-rainwater appendix (Appendix K) is not adopted. No code path for drinking rainwater was found.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Minn. R. 4714.0050 (incorporation of UPC 2018)","Minn. R. 4714.1601 (rainwater catchment - general; lawn irrigation exclusion)","Minn. R. 4714.1602 (nonpotable rainwater catchment systems)","Minn. R. 4714.1603 (rainwater storage tanks; treatment)","Minn. Stat. 326B.43, 326B.435 (statutory authority)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1601/","title":"Minn. R. 4714.1601 General (rainwater catchment)","section":"1601.1, 1601.1.1, 1601.1.2"},{"url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1602/","title":"Minn. R. 4714.1602 Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems","section":"1602.1, 1602.2, 1602.4, 1602.9.3, Table 1602.9.6"},{"url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1603/","title":"Minn. R. 4714.1603 Rainwater Storage Tanks","section":"treatment subpart"},{"url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714/full","title":"Minn. R. ch. 4714 Plumbing Code (full text)","section":"4714.0050"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitNotes","text":"The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the installation, construction, alteration, and repair of rainwater catchment systems for nonpotable applications listed in section 1602.1.","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1601/"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"1601.1.1 Irrigation. Rainwater catchment systems used for lawn irrigation are not covered under this chapter.","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1601/"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"No permit for a rainwater catchment system shall be issued until complete plumbing plans have been submitted and approved by the commissioner","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1602/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"rainwater catchment systems intended to supply uses such as water closets, urinals, trap primers for floor drains and floor sinks, industrial processes, water features, vehicle washing facilities, cooling tower makeup, and similar uses shall be approved by the commissioner.","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1602/"},{"field":"limits","text":"At a minimum, a 100-micron absolute filter shall be provided along with disinfection to provide a 3.5-log reduction of bacteria.","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1603/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Chapters 2 to 11, 16, and 17 of the 2018 edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714/full"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"UPC appendices A, B, and I, are incorporated by reference and made part of the Minnesota Plumbing Code","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714/full"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"No permit for a rainwater catchment system shall be issued until complete plumbing plans have been submitted and approved by the commissioner","url":"https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4714.1602/"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"nonpotable_only","special":[]},{"code":"MS","name":"Mississippi","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No rule names rainwater. MDEQ's water-use rules require permits for surface-water diversions but exempt diversions 'for domestic single-residence purposes'. Domestic use covers household purposes, domestic animals and home garden and lawn irrigation. So a homeowner's roof collection needs no MDEQ water-use permit, whether or not roof runoff counts as a 'surface water diversion'. MSU Extension notes local ordinances may cover the health and safety of cisterns and rain barrels.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Mississippi runs a state permit system for surface and groundwater use through MDEQ's Permit Board (Miss. Code 51-3). Single-residence domestic diversions are exempt from permitting, and nothing found treats rooftop collection as a regulated appropriation.","citations":["11 Miss. Admin. Code Pt. 7, Ch. 1, Rule 1.1 (definition of domestic use) and Rule 1.3 (surface water diversions; exemptions)","Miss. Code Ann. 51-3 (water resources; enabling statute)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.mdeq.ms.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/11-Miss.-Admin.-Code-Pt.-7-Ch.-1-FINAL.pdf","title":"11 Miss. Admin. Code Pt. 7, Ch. 1 - Surface Water and Groundwater Use and Protection (MDEQ)","section":"Rule 1.1 K; Rule 1.3 A(1)"},{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/mississippi/11-Miss-Code-R-SS-7-1-3","title":"11 Miss. Code. R. 7-1.3 - Surface Water Diversions (Cornell LII)","section":"A(1)"},{"url":"https://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/P3146_web.pdf","title":"Water Conservation in Your Landscape, Publication 3146 (MSU Extension, 2024)","section":"introduction"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitRequired","text":"Surface water diversions meeting the following conditions shall not be subject to the permitting requirements of this chapter: (1) Diversions when the water is to be used for domestic single-residence purposes.","url":"https://www.mdeq.ms.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/11-Miss.-Admin.-Code-Pt.-7-Ch.-1-FINAL.pdf"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Domestic use — the use of water for ordinary household purposes, the watering of noncommercial farm livestock, poultry, and domestic animals, and the irrigation of home gardens and lawns.","url":"https://www.mdeq.ms.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/11-Miss.-Admin.-Code-Pt.-7-Ch.-1-FINAL.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"There may also be local ordinances regarding the health and safety of water storage devices such as cisterns or rain barrels.","url":"https://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/P3146_web.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Capture and store valuable rainwater in cisterns and rain barrels and reuse it to water your plants.","url":"https://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/P3146_web.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"MO","name":"Missouri","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state permit or registration rule for residential rain collection found. Missouri's only statewide water-quantity requirement is registration of 'major water users', defined as those able to withdraw or divert 100,000 gallons or more per day. Household rain barrels and cisterns are far below that, but no official text applies it to rainwater either way. Missouri has no statewide residential plumbing code rainwater provision found; plumbing codes are adopted locally.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["RSMo 256.400 (major water user definition, 100,000 gallons/day threshold)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=256.400","title":"RSMo 256.400 Definitions (Major Water Users)","section":"(4)"},{"url":"https://dnr.mo.gov/water/business-industry-other-entities/reporting/major-water-users","title":"Major Water Users | Missouri DNR","section":"general"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitNotes","text":"with a water source and equipment necessary to withdraw or divert one hundred thousand gallons or more per day from any stream, river, lake, well, spring or other water source","url":"https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=256.400"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"MT","name":"Montana","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No Montana statute or DNRC page found that says whether rooftop rain collection needs a water-use permit. The Water Use Act requires a permit to 'appropriate' water (divert, impound or withdraw it for a beneficial use), but no official text applies that to roof runoff either way. Plumbed rainwater systems fall under the state plumbing code (UPC 2021 as adopted by ARM 24.301.301); plumbing permits apply to plumbing work, not to a stand-alone barrel.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":"The state plumbing code adopts UPC 2021 Appendix K, 'Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems', so a plumbed potable rainwater system is a recognised code category and must meet those appendix requirements (treatment, installation) under the state plumbing code.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Montana is a prior-appropriation state: the state owns the water and a recorded water right is needed for most uses. The Water Use Act defines 'appropriate' as diverting, impounding or withdrawing water for a beneficial use. Neither the statute nor DNRC guidance found says whether catching roof runoff in a barrel counts, and there is no rainwater exemption like Nevada's or Colorado's. Treat the water-rights question as unresolved.","citations":["MCA 85-2-102 (definitions: 'appropriate', 'beneficial use')","ARM 24.301.301 (adopts Uniform Plumbing Code 2021 incl. Appendix K, Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://mca.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0850/chapter_0020/part_0010/section_0020/0850-0020-0010-0020.html","title":"MCA 85-2-102 Definitions","section":"'Appropriate' definition"},{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/montana/Mont-Admin-r-24.301.301","title":"Mont. Admin. r. 24.301.301 - Incorporation by reference of Uniform Plumbing Code","section":"(1)(e)"},{"url":"https://dnrc.mt.gov/Water-Resources/Water-Rights/Understanding-Water-Rights/","title":"DNRC - Understanding Water Rights","section":"general"}],"quotes":[{"field":"potableRules","text":"Appendix K, Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems is adopted.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/montana/Mont-Admin-r-24.301.301"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"\"Appropriate\" or \"appropriation\" means: (a) to divert, impound, or withdraw, including by stock for stock water, a quantity of water for a beneficial use","url":"https://mca.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0850/chapter_0020/part_0010/section_0020/0850-0020-0010-0020.html"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"The department adopts and incorporates by reference the Uniform Plumbing Code, 2021 edition","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/montana/Mont-Admin-r-24.301.301"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Appendix K, Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems is adopted.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/montana/Mont-Admin-r-24.301.301"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"permit","special":[]},{"code":"NE","name":"Nebraska","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No statute or DWEE (Department of Water, Energy, and Environment, formerly DNR) statement found on rooftop rain collection. Nebraska's surface-water permits cover diverting water from natural streams and impounding it in reservoirs; roof runoff is not a natural stream, but no official text says it is exempt.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Nebraska applies prior appropriation to surface water in natural streams (Neb. Rev. Stat. 46-202); groundwater is managed separately by Natural Resources Districts. Roof runoff captured before it reaches a stream is not named in either system, and no official source says a rain barrel needs a surface-water permit. Storage reservoirs need an application to the Chief Water Officer (46-241), aimed at dams and ponds, not barrels.","citations":["Neb. Rev. Stat. 46-202","Neb. Rev. Stat. 46-241"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=46-202&print=true","title":"Neb. Rev. Stat. 46-202 Natural streams; unappropriated water","section":"(1)"},{"url":"https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=46-241&print=true","title":"Neb. Rev. Stat. 46-241 Storage reservoirs","section":"(1)"},{"url":"https://dwee.nebraska.gov/surface-water","title":"Surface Water Section | Nebraska DWEE","section":"overview"},{"url":"https://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/html/g2220/build/g2220.htm","title":"NebGuide G2220 Stormwater Management: Rainwater Harvesting with Rain Barrels (UNL Extension)","section":"Rain Barrel Water Quality and Safety"}],"quotes":[{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"The water of every natural stream not heretofore appropriated within the State of Nebraska, including the Missouri River, is hereby declared to be the property of the public","url":"https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=46-202&print=true"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"A surface water permit/right allows the appropriator (in most cases, the landowner) the right to divert water at a set rate, for a certain amount, from an approved point of diversion","url":"https://dwee.nebraska.gov/surface-water"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Rainwater harvesting treats rainwater as a valuable resource to be collected and used, rather than conveyed away.","url":"https://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/html/g2220/build/g2220.htm"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"NV","name":"Nevada","status":"legal_with_limits","limits":"Only 'de minimus' collection from the rooftop of a single-family dwelling, and only for nonpotable domestic use. The statute sets no gallon or barrel cap; 'domestic use' (NRS 534.013) covers household purposes plus watering a family garden, lawn and animals. Collection outside these conditions stays under Nevada's water-appropriation law (NRS ch. 533).","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"NRS 533.027 exempts qualifying rooftop collection from NRS chapter 533 (water appropriation), so no water-right permit from the State Engineer is needed. Collection that is not de minimis, not from a single-family rooftop, or not for nonpotable domestic use gets no exemption. Local building/plumbing permits for plumbed systems were not researched.","allowedUses":["Nonpotable domestic use at a single-family dwelling, e.g. watering the family garden and lawn and watering livestock/pets (domestic use as defined in NRS 534.013)."],"potableRules":"The statutory exemption covers only nonpotable domestic use. Drinking-water use of harvested rain falls outside NRS 533.027 (the extension guidance says never drink it unless purified). No state rule allowing potable rainwater at a home was found.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Nevada is a prior-appropriation state: the water of all sources above or beneath the surface belongs to the public (NRS 533.025) and is appropriated under chapter 533 (NRS 533.030). Assembly Bill 138 (2017, Stats. ch. 272, approved June 1, 2017) added NRS 533.027, taking de minimus single-family rooftop collection for nonpotable domestic use out of chapter 533, so homeowners need no water right for it. Later amendments (2023, 2025) changed the wildlife-guzzler and fire provisions; the rooftop clause reads the same as in 2017.","citations":["NRS 533.027(1)(b)(1) (added by AB 138, Stats. 2017 ch. 272 p. 1432, approved June 1, 2017; amended 2023, 2025)","NRS 534.013 (definition of domestic use)","NRS 533.030(1)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-533.html","title":"NRS Chapter 533 - Adjudication of Vested Water Rights; Appropriation of Public Waters","section":"NRS 533.027; 533.030"},{"url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-534.html","title":"NRS Chapter 534 - Underground Water and Wells","section":"NRS 534.013"},{"url":"https://extension.unr.edu/publication.aspx?PubID=3419","title":"Low Impact Development in Northern Nevada: Rainwater Harvesting (University of Nevada, Reno Extension)","section":"What can rainwater be used for?"},{"url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Statutes/79th2017/Stats201709.html","title":"Statutes of Nevada 2017, ch. 272 (AB 138) - enrolled text and Legislative Counsel's Digest","section":"page 1432, section 1"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"The provisions of this chapter do not apply to:","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-533.html"},{"field":"status","text":"(b) The de minimus collection of precipitation: (1) From the rooftop of a single-family dwelling for nonpotable domestic use","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-533.html"},{"field":"limits","text":"The de minimus collection of precipitation: (1) From the rooftop of a single-family dwelling for nonpotable domestic use","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-533.html"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"is exempted from the requirements of chapter 533 of NRS and thus may be collected without a water right or permit to appropriate water.","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Statutes/79th2017/Stats201709.html"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Domestic use or domestic purposes extends to culinary and household purposes directly related to: 1. A single-family dwelling","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-534.html"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"including, without limitation, the watering of a family garden and lawn and the watering of livestock and any other domestic animals or household pets","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-534.html"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Rainwater should never be used for drinking water purposes unless it has been purified.","url":"https://extension.unr.edu/publication.aspx?PubID=3419"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Subject to existing rights, and except as otherwise provided in this section and NRS 533.0241, 533.027, 533.028 and 534.115, all water may be appropriated for beneficial use as provided in this chapter","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-533.html"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"The water of all sources of water supply within the boundaries of the State whether above or beneath the surface of the ground, belongs to the public.","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-533.html"},{"field":"citations","text":"CHAPTER 272 [Approved: June 1, 2017] AN ACT relating to water; authorizing the de minimus collection of precipitation for nonpotable domestic use","url":"https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Statutes/79th2017/Stats201709.html"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"rainwater is a high-quality, free source of water that can be used for irrigation with minimal effort.","url":"https://extension.unr.edu/publication.aspx?PubID=3419"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":"\"De minimus\" collection only; no gallon figure set","potable":"nonpotable_only","special":[{"title":"\"De minimus\" has no number","text":"Nevada exempts only \"de minimus\" collection (the statute's own spelling) from the rooftop of a single-family home for non-drinking domestic use. The statute doesn't define de minimus or give a gallon figure, so no one can tell you an exact limit."}]},{"code":"NH","name":"New Hampshire","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state permit rule for rain barrels found; NHDES publishes do-it-yourself rain barrel instructions that mention no permit. Plumbed systems fall under the State Building Code (RSA 155-A), which adopts the 2024 IPC and 2024 IRC. The state amendments summary (effective July 1, 2026) does not delete the IPC's nonpotable water systems chapter (Chapter 13) and cross-references it. So plumbed rainwater reuse follows those model-code provisions, with permits and inspections from the local building official.","allowedUses":["NHDES guidance: perennial gardens, house plants and other non-potable (non-drinking) needs; take care watering vegetables or other edible crops because roof pollutants may be present."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["RSA 155-A:1, IV (State Building Code: IPC 2024, IRC 2024 adopted by reference)","New Hampshire Building Code amendments summary, effective July 1, 2026 (IPC 2024 amendments)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.soaknh.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt741/files/documents/rain-barrel.pdf","title":"Rain Barrel - NH Homeowner's Guide to Stormwater Management, DIY fact sheet (NHDES Soak Up the Rain)","section":"Maintenance - Empty"},{"url":"https://www.soaknh.des.nh.gov/do-it-yourself-fact-sheets","title":"Do-It-Yourself Fact Sheets | Soak up the Rain NH (NHDES)","section":"Rain barrel"},{"url":"https://mm.nh.gov/files/uploads/fmo/remote-docs/state-bldg-code-amendments-summary-2026july01.pdf","title":"New Hampshire Building Code including Amendments July 1, 2026 (State Fire Marshal / BCRB)","section":"Adoption; IPC 2024 amendments"},{"url":"https://gc.nh.gov/rsa/html/xii/155-a/155-a-mrg.htm","title":"RSA Chapter 155-A New Hampshire Building Code","section":"155-A:1, IV"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"The water can be used on perennial gardens, house plants and other non-potable or non-drinking water needs.","url":"https://www.soaknh.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt741/files/documents/rain-barrel.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"\"State Building Code\" means the adoption by reference of the International Building Code 2024, the International Existing Building Code 2024, the International Plumbing Code 2024","url":"https://mm.nh.gov/files/uploads/fmo/remote-docs/state-bldg-code-amendments-summary-2026july01.pdf"},{"field":"status","text":"A container that captures rainwater from your roof to temporarily store it for use later in dry conditions. It helps to reduce runoff.","url":"https://www.soaknh.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt741/files/documents/rain-barrel.pdf"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"The provisions of Section 1303 shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024V2.0/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"A container that captures rainwater from your roof to temporarily store it for use later in dry conditions. It helps to reduce runoff.","url":"https://www.soaknh.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt741/files/documents/rain-barrel.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"NJ","name":"New Jersey","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No enacted state law or rule on rain barrels found. Plumbed systems come under the Uniform Construction Code plumbing subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.15), which adopts the National Standard Plumbing Code Illustrated/2021 with New Jersey amendments. None of those amendments mentions rainwater harvesting, and the NSPC's own rainwater provisions were not checked. On-site potable water supply systems are assigned to NJDEP and local boards of health, not the plumbing subcode.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":"The plumbing subcode's potable water supply chapter is replaced by a statement that on-site water supply systems are under the jurisdiction of NJDEP and county or local boards of health. A private drinking-water supply from rainwater would therefore be a DEP/local health matter. No specific rainwater drinking-water rule was found.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.15 (plumbing subcode; NSPC 2021 as amended; Chapter 17 replaced)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-jersey/N-J-A-C-5-23-3-15","title":"N.J. Admin. Code 5:23-3.15 - Plumbing subcode (Cornell LII)","section":"(a)1; Chapter 17 amendment"},{"url":"https://dep.nj.gov/conserve-water/nj-water-savers/","title":"NJDEP Conserve Water - NJ Water Savers","section":"program history"}],"quotes":[{"field":"potableRules","text":"17.1 General. On-site water supply systems are under the jurisdiction of the Department of Environmental Protection and county or local boards of health, as applicable.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-jersey/N-J-A-C-5-23-3-15"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"the Commissioner hereby adopts the Model Code of the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, known as \"The National Standard Plumbing Code Illustrated/2021,\" as the plumbing subcode for New Jersey.","url":"https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-jersey/N-J-A-C-5-23-3-15"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Outdoor water-saving Build-a-Rain-Barrel Workshops were held in all 5 communities to teach community members about the importance of water conservation, and how to construct their own barrel at home.","url":"https://dep.nj.gov/conserve-water/nj-water-savers/"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"NM","name":"New Mexico","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No statutory rule or cap found. State Engineer (OSE) guidance: harvest from residential/commercial roof surfaces for on-site landscape irrigation and other on-site domestic uses; collection should not reduce runoff below what the site produced in its natural, pre-development state; harvested rainwater may not be appropriated for other uses. Larger commercial projects should check with the OSE Water Rights Division.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"OSE: most homeowners need no state permit to install and use a rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation; larger-scale commercial projects should contact the local OSE Water Rights Division office. Water-quality questions go to the NM Environment Department. Local ordinances (e.g. cistern requirements in some jurisdictions) not reviewed.","allowedUses":["on-site landscape irrigation","other on-site domestic uses (OSE policy wording)"],"potableRules":null,"incentives":[{"name":"ABCWUA Rainwater Harvesting Rebate (rain barrel/cistern)","type":"rebate","amount":"$25.00 (50-149 gal), $50.00 (150-299 gal), $75.00 (300-499 gal), $125.00 (1,000-1,499 gal), $150.00 (1,500 gal and over), based on total storage capacity; the published table has no 500-999 gal tier","eligibility":"Current Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority water customer (not sewer-only); barrels min. 50 gal and designed for rain capture; paid-in-full itemized receipt; apply within 90 days of purchase; one rebate credit per fiscal year","url":"https://www.abcwua.org/conservation-rainwater-harvesting-rebates/","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":"New Mexico is a prior-appropriation state administered by the State Engineer. OSE treats roof rainwater harvesting for on-site use as not requiring a state permit for most homeowners, but frames it as limited to on-site use that does not cut the site's pre-development runoff, and harvested water cannot be appropriated for other uses.","citations":["NM Office of the State Engineer, Rainwater Harvesting policy page (agency guidance; no statute located)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php","title":"NM Office of the State Engineer: Rainwater Harvesting","section":"page body"},{"url":"https://www.abcwua.org/conservation-rainwater-harvesting-rebates/","title":"Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority: Rainwater Harvesting Rebates","section":"rebate tiers and requirements"},{"url":"https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legType=B&legNo=16&year=14","title":"NM Legislature 2014 SB 16 (Water Harvesting Income Tax Credit) status","section":"status: died"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"encourages the harvesting, collection, and use of rainwater from residential and commercial roof surfaces for on-site landscape irrigation and other on-site domestic uses.","url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"Most homeowners can install and use a rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation without needing a permit from the State.","url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"For larger-scale commercial projects, please contact the local OSE Water Rights Division office to inquire about any permitting requirements.","url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php"},{"field":"limits","text":"The collection of water harvested in this manner should not reduce the amount of runoff that would have occurred from the site in its natural, pre-development state. Harvested rainwater may not be appropriated for any other uses.","url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"for on-site landscape irrigation and other on-site domestic uses.","url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php"},{"field":"incentives","text":"The rebate amount is determined by the total water storage capacity of all rain barrels and cisterns installed, rather than the number of units purchased.","url":"https://www.abcwua.org/conservation-rainwater-harvesting-rebates/"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Applicant must be a current water authority customer receiving charges for water service; sewer‑only accounts are not eligible.","url":"https://www.abcwua.org/conservation-rainwater-harvesting-rebates/"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Harvested rainwater may not be appropriated for any other uses.","url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"encourages the harvesting, collection, and use of rainwater from residential and commercial roof surfaces for on-site landscape irrigation and other on-site domestic uses.","url":"https://www.ose.nm.gov/WUC/wuc_rainHarvesting.php"},{"field":"incentives","text":"$25.00 for 50-149 gallons $50.00 for 150-299 gallons $75.00 for 300-499 gallons $125.00 for 1000-1499 gallons $150.00 for 1500 gallons and over","url":"https://www.abcwua.org/conservation-rainwater-harvesting-rebates/"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"NY","name":"New York","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state statute or rule on collecting rainwater and no volume cap. The only state hook is the building code: the 2025 Plumbing Code of New York State (eff. Dec 31, 2025) Section 1303 governs PLUMBED nonpotable rainwater systems - roof-only collection from approved impervious surfaces (parking/walking surfaces only where approved), debris excluders and first-flush diverters, storage-tank setbacks (5 ft from lot lines adjoining private lots, septic tanks and seepage pits; 2 ft from protected-tree root zones), 'NONPOTABLE WATER - DO NOT DRINK' signage, 100-micron filtration for toilet/urinal flushing. Nonpotable uses only 'as permitted by the jurisdiction'. A plain garden rain barrel is not addressed.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state rainwater permit or registration exists. Plumbed systems fall under the Uniform Code as enforced by the local code enforcement official, so ordinary local plumbing permits would apply; a free-standing rain barrel used for garden watering has no state permit requirement found.","allowedUses":["garden and landscape watering (NYSDEC guidance)","nonpotable indoor uses such as toilet/urinal flushing via a code-compliant rainwater collection system, as permitted by the local jurisdiction"],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["2025 Plumbing Code of New York State, Chapter 13, Sections 1301 and 1303 (Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems), part of the NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (19 NYCRR)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/NYSPC2025P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems","title":"2025 Plumbing Code of New York State, Chapter 13 Nonpotable Water Systems (ICC official publication)","section":"1301.2.2, 1301.3, 1303.1, 1303.2, 1303.10"},{"url":"https://dec.ny.gov/get-involved/living-green/save-energy-and-water","title":"NYSDEC: Save Energy and Water","section":"Capture water in a rainbarrel"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"The provisions of Section 1303 shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications, as permitted by the jurisdiction.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/NYSPC2025P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"limits","text":"Rainwater shall be collected only from above-ground impervious roofing surfaces constructed from approved materials and where approved, vehicular parking or pedestrian walking surfaces.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/NYSPC2025P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"limits","text":"Nonpotable water utilized for water closet and urinal flushing applications shall be filtered by a 100-micron (0.1 mm) or finer filter.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/NYSPC2025P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"limits","text":"“Nonpotable water is utilized for [application name]. CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK.”","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/NYSPC2025P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Rainbarrels catch the water from downspouts and rooftops and save it for use later.","url":"https://dec.ny.gov/get-involved/living-green/save-energy-and-water"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Drip irrigation or soaker hose systems (see above) can deliver the water to your garden.","url":"https://dec.ny.gov/get-involved/living-green/save-energy-and-water"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Rainbarrels catch the water from downspouts and rooftops and save it for use later.","url":"https://dec.ny.gov/get-involved/living-green/save-energy-and-water"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"The provisions of Section 1303 shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications, as permitted by the jurisdiction.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/NYSPC2025P1/chapter-13-nonpotable-water-systems"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"NC","name":"North Carolina","status":"legal_by_statute","limits":"No volume cap. G.S. 143-138(b12) bars any state, county or local building code or regulation from prohibiting cisterns that supply toilet flushing and outdoor irrigation; 'cistern' is defined as a watertight, lidded tank of nonreactive material designed to collect rainfall from a catchment area. Indoor toilet-flushing systems must meet the NC Plumbing Code rainwater provisions (originally Appendix C-1, Rainwater Recycling Systems: connections, reservoir, filtration, overflow, makeup water, non-potable identification).","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No state permit or registration to collect rainwater. Cisterns plumbed into a building (toilet/urinal flushing) fall under the NC State Building/Plumbing Code, so normal local plumbing permits/inspections apply to that plumbing work; a plain rain barrel or exterior irrigation cistern has no state permit requirement found.","allowedUses":["outdoor irrigation","toilet and urinal flushing (non-potable, per NC Plumbing Code rainwater provisions)"],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["N.C. Gen. Stat. 143-138(b12) (added by S.L. 2009-243 / H.B. 749)","N.C. Gen. Stat. 143-355.5(a) (state water reuse policy naming captured rain water)","NC Plumbing Code Appendix C-1, Rainwater Recycling Systems (as described by NC DEQ)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_143/GS_143-138.html","title":"N.C. Gen. Stat. 143-138","section":"(b12) Cisterns"},{"url":"https://www.deq.nc.gov/watereducation/sl2009-243/download","title":"Session Law 2009-243 (House Bill 749)","section":"Section 1 and Section 4"},{"url":"https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_143/GS_143-355.5.html","title":"N.C. Gen. Stat. 143-355.5 Water reuse; policy; rulemaking","section":"(a)"},{"url":"https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/water-resources/water-planning/water-supply-planning/water-conservation/save-water-6","title":"NC DEQ: Rainwater Harvesting","section":"page body"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"No State, county, or local building code or regulation shall prohibit the use of cisterns to provide water for flushing toilets and for outdoor irrigation.","url":"https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_143/GS_143-138.html"},{"field":"limits","text":"\"cistern\" means a storage tank that is watertight; has smooth interior surfaces and enclosed lids; is fabricated from nonreactive materials such as reinforced concrete, galvanized steel, or plastic; is designed to collect rainfall from a catchment area","url":"https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_143/GS_143-138.html"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"the N.C. Building Code Council has added Appendix C-1, Rainwater Recycling Systems, which has new requirements for rain water connections, collection reservoir, filtration, overflow and makeup water for cisterns used for flushing toilets and urinals.","url":"https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/water-resources/water-planning/water-supply-planning/water-conservation/save-water-6"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"The Code may include rules pertaining to the construction or renovation of residential or commercial buildings and structures that permit the use of cisterns to provide water for flushing toilets and for outdoor irrigation.","url":"https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_143/GS_143-138.html"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"These requirements protect public health by making the water easily identified as non-potable.","url":"https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/water-resources/water-planning/water-supply-planning/water-conservation/save-water-6"},{"field":"status","text":"It is the public policy of the State that the reuse of treated wastewater or reclaimed water and the use of gray water or captured rain water is critical to meeting the existing and future water supply needs","url":"https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_143/GS_143-355.5.html"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Harvested rainwater can be collected from a building's roof in a rain barrel or cistern, allowing it to be saved and used during dry periods.","url":"https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/water-resources/water-planning/water-supply-planning/water-conservation/save-water-6"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[{"title":"No code may prohibit cisterns","text":"North Carolina law bars any state, county or local building code or regulation from prohibiting cisterns that supply toilet flushing and outdoor irrigation (G.S. 143-138(b12))."}]},{"code":"ND","name":"North Dakota","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No rainwater-specific limits found. General water-appropriation thresholds: no permit needed for domestic use (household needs and irrigating up to 5 acres of noncommercial gardens/lawns per household) under 12.5 acre-feet/year; any impoundment able to hold more than 12.5 acre-feet needs a permit regardless of use; DWR asks that the location and capacity of exempt constructed works be reported.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No rainwater-specific permit. If roof runoff were treated as 'waters of the state', NDCC 61-04-02 exempts domestic works from the appropriation permit (report location/capacity to DWR after building them) but requires a permit for any impoundment capable of holding more than 12.5 acre-feet. Rooftop runoff is arguably 'diffused surface water', which NDCC 61-01-01(1) excludes from public waters, so appropriation law may not apply at all to a rain barrel. Neither statute nor DWR says this for rain barrels specifically.","allowedUses":[],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"North Dakota is a prior-appropriation state: public waters must be appropriated under NDCC ch. 61-04. However, NDCC 61-01-01(1) excludes 'diffused surface waters' from the public surface waters subject to appropriation, and domestic uses under 12.5 acre-feet/year need no permit, so a residential rain barrel/cistern is not within the permit system in practice.","citations":["N.D. Cent. Code 61-01-01 (waters of the state; excludes diffused surface waters)","N.D. Cent. Code 61-04-01.1(6) (domestic use definition)","N.D. Cent. Code 61-04-02 (permit required; domestic exemption; 12.5 acre-foot impoundment threshold)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t61c01.pdf","title":"N.D. Cent. Code ch. 61-01","section":"61-01-01"},{"url":"https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t61c04.pdf","title":"N.D. Cent. Code ch. 61-04","section":"61-04-01.1(6); 61-04-02"},{"url":"https://www.swc.nd.gov/reg_approp/waterpermits/","title":"ND Department of Water Resources: Water Permits","section":"Domestic, Livestock, Fish and Wildlife, or Other Recreational Use (<12.5 Acre-Feet)"}],"quotes":[{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Waters on the surface of the earth, excluding diffused surface waters but including surface waters whether flowing in well -defined channels or flowing through lakes, ponds, or marshes","url":"https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t61c01.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"shall first secure a water permit from the department of water resources unless the construction or taking from the constructed works is for domestic or livestock purposes or for fish, wildlife, and other recreational uses","url":"https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t61c04.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"all water users , except those reusing fossil byproduct water, shall secure a water permit prior to constructing an impoundment capable of retaining more than twelve and one-half acre-feet [15418.52 cubic meters] of water","url":"https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t61c04.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"irrigation of land not exceeding five acres [2.0 hectares] in area for each family unit or household for noncommercial gardens, orchards, lawns, trees, or shrubbery","url":"https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t61c04.pdf"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"A water appropriation permit is not required for, domestic, livestock, fish and wildlife, and other recreation uses if total annual use is less than 12.5 acre-feet (4,073,137 gallons or 96,979 barrels) per year.","url":"https://www.swc.nd.gov/reg_approp/waterpermits/"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"However, the location and the capacity of the constructed works must be reported to DWR.","url":"https://www.swc.nd.gov/reg_approp/waterpermits/"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"OH","name":"Ohio","status":"legal_by_statute","limits":"No volume cap or ban. Rainwater cisterns are an expressly recognised private-water-system source (ORC 3701.344; OAC 3701-28), and when used for drinking/household supply they must meet ODH construction rules: new cistern at least 2,500 gallons per dwelling unit; watertight NSF-61/ASTM tanks; an above-ground roof washer that diverts the first 10 gallons, plus a debris trap, per cistern and per 1,500 sq ft of roof; continuous disinfection and (for UV) a 5-micron absolute filter. Under the Ohio Plumbing Code, nonpotable rainwater collection and distribution systems are also treated as private water systems under ODH rules. Simple outdoor rain barrels are not specifically regulated at state level.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No state permit for a rain barrel/outdoor-only collection (not addressed). A permit from the local board of health is required to construct or alter any private water system, which includes a rainwater cistern supplying water for human consumption (OAC 3701-28-03(A)); the Ohio Plumbing Code (OAC 4101:3-13-01) routes nonpotable rainwater collection and distribution systems to the same ODH private-water-system rules, so plumbed indoor nonpotable systems should also be expected to need a local health-district permit.","allowedUses":["outdoor irrigation (not regulated at state level)","non-potable indoor use via a rainwater collection and distribution system regulated as a private water system (OAC 4101:3-13-01 / OAC 3701-28)","potable household supply with a health-district permit, ODH-compliant cistern, roof washer and continuous disinfection"],"potableRules":"A rainwater cistern used for human consumption is a 'private water system' (ORC 3701.344). OAC 3701-28: local board-of-health permit before construction/alteration (3701-28-03); tank construction, min. 2,500 gal per dwelling, first-flush roof washer diverting first 10 gal and debris trap per 1,500 sq ft of roof (3701-28-12); continuous disinfection required for cisterns, with a 5-micron absolute filter when UV is used (3701-28-15). Water trucked in to top up a cistern must come from a registered water hauler (ODH).","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Ohio Rev. Code 3701.344","Ohio Adm. Code 3701-28-01 (definitions)","Ohio Adm. Code 3701-28-03 (permits)","Ohio Adm. Code 3701-28-12 (cisterns, roof washers)","Ohio Adm. Code 3701-28-15 (continuous disinfection)","Ohio Adm. Code 4101:3-13-01 (Ohio Plumbing Code, nonpotable water systems)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3701.344","title":"Ohio Rev. Code 3701.344","section":"(A) definition of private water system"},{"url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/chapter-3701-28","title":"Ohio Adm. Code Chapter 3701-28 Private Water Systems","section":"3701-28-01, -03, -12, -15"},{"url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/assets/laws/administrative-code/rules/4101/3/4101$3-13-01_eff_3_1_24.pdf","title":"Ohio Adm. Code 4101:3-13-01 Nonpotable water systems (eff. 3/1/2024)","section":"1301.1 Scope"},{"url":"https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/private-water-systems-program/Resources-and-Education/cisterns_hwst","title":"ODH: Cisterns and Hauled Water Storage Tanks Used As A Private Water System","section":"What is a Cistern?"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"\"Private water system\" includes any well, spring, cistern, pond, hauled water, or recycled water and any equipment for the collection, transportation, filtration, disinfection, treatment, or storage of such water","url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3701.344"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"A private water system cistern is one that uses rainwater collected from a roof or other rain collection device as a source of water for human consumption.","url":"https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/private-water-systems-program/Resources-and-Education/cisterns_hwst"},{"field":"limits","text":"No new cistern of less than two thousand five hundred gallons capacity per dwelling unit shall be installed.","url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/chapter-3701-28"},{"field":"limits","text":"All newly installed roof washers shall be of a design that will automatically divert the first ten gallons of rainfall runoff from the roof away from the cistern.","url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/chapter-3701-28"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"The following private water systems shall be provided with continuous disinfection, as provided in this rule: (1) Ponds; (2) Springs; (3) Cisterns;","url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/chapter-3701-28"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"No person shall construct, alter or seal a private water system, test well or part thereof, unless a valid permit for the system has been issued by the board of health pursuant to this rule.","url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/chapter-3701-28"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems, and Reclaimed Water Systems are considered Private Water Systems as defined in Section 3701.344 of the Revised Code.","url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/assets/laws/administrative-code/rules/4101/3/4101$3-13-01_eff_3_1_24.pdf"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems, and Reclaimed Water Systems are considered Private Water Systems as defined in Section 3701.344 of the Revised Code.","url":"https://codes.ohio.gov/assets/laws/administrative-code/rules/4101/3/4101$3-13-01_eff_3_1_24.pdf"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"permit","special":[{"title":"Cisterns are a recognised water source","text":"Ohio law lists cisterns among private water systems. A rainwater cistern that supplies drinking water needs a local board of health permit, at least 2,500 gallons per home, a roof washer that diverts the first 10 gallons, and continuous disinfection. An outdoor rain barrel is not regulated at state level."}]},{"code":"OK","name":"Oklahoma","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No rainwater-specific permit found. OWRB requires water-use permits only for uses other than 'domestic use' (household purposes, animals, and irrigating up to 3 acres of gardens, orchards and lawns); rooftop rainwater is diffused surface water that 60 O.S. §60 assigns to the landowner, so a homeowner's barrel/cistern does not fall under OWRB permitting. OSU Extension advises checking local plumbing, building and neighborhood codes.","allowedUses":["irrigation","car washing","toilet flushing (treated per OSU Extension)","drinking water (treated per OSU Extension)"],"potableRules":"No Oklahoma rule specific to rainwater for drinking was located. OSU Extension guidance: if used for drinking water or toilet flushing, rainwater must be treated in accordance with state and federal drinking water regulations (e.g. filtration plus chlorination or UV), and tanks for drinking water need suitable non-leaching materials.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Oklahoma uses prior appropriation for stream water, but 60 O.S. §60(A) says the landowner owns water standing on the land or flowing over it but not forming a definite stream (diffused surface water). Rain captured from a roof before it reaches a stream falls in that landowner-owned category, so no appropriation permit is involved. The Water for 2060 Act (82 O.S. §1088.12) promotes nonpotable supplies but expressly does not change water-rights law.","citations":["60 O.S. §60 (Water ownership; rights to use water)","82 O.S. §1088.12 (Water for 2060 Act, legislative declaration)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.oscn.net/applications/oscn/DeliverDocument.asp?CiteID=85655","title":"60 O.S. §60 Water Ownership - Rights to Use Water (OSCN)","section":"A"},{"url":"https://www.oscn.net/applications/oscn/DeliverDocument.asp?CiteID=466842","title":"82 O.S. §1088.12 Water for 2060 Act - Legislative Declaration (OSCN)","section":"full text"},{"url":"https://oklahoma.gov/owrb/water-permitting/frequently-asked-questions.html","title":"OWRB Water Permitting FAQ","section":"Do I need a water use permit from the OWRB?"},{"url":"https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/design-of-rainwater-harvesting-systems-in-oklahoma","title":"OSU Extension BAE-1757 Design of Rainwater Harvesting Systems in Oklahoma","section":"Introduction; Cost; Design and Sizing"}],"quotes":[{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"The owner of the land owns water standing thereon, or flowing over or under its surface but not forming a definite stream.","url":"https://www.oscn.net/applications/oscn/DeliverDocument.asp?CiteID=85655"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"If you intend to use water for any purpose other than domestic use, Oklahoma law requires that you obtain a permit from the OWRB.","url":"https://oklahoma.gov/owrb/water-permitting/frequently-asked-questions.html"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Domestic use includes the use of water for household purposes, for farm and domestic animals up to the normal grazing capacity of the land, and for the irrigation of land not exceeding a total of three acres","url":"https://oklahoma.gov/owrb/water-permitting/frequently-asked-questions.html"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Uses of harvested rainwater include irrigation, washing cars, flushing toilets, and drinking water.","url":"https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/design-of-rainwater-harvesting-systems-in-oklahoma"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"if used for drinking water or flushing toilets, the water must be treated in accordance with state and federal drinking water regulations.","url":"https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/design-of-rainwater-harvesting-systems-in-oklahoma"},{"field":"notes","text":"As of March 2012, Oklahoma does not provide tax incentives concerning rainwater harvesting.","url":"https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/design-of-rainwater-harvesting-systems-in-oklahoma"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Provided, however, that nothing in the Water for 2060 Act shall be construed as amending the provisions of law pertaining to rights or permits to use water.","url":"https://www.oscn.net/applications/oscn/DeliverDocument.asp?CiteID=466842"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Rainwater harvesting systems can be easily implemented at the home, commercial, and community level.","url":"https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/design-of-rainwater-harvesting-systems-in-oklahoma"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"OR","name":"Oregon","status":"legal_by_statute","limits":"No volume cap in statute. The water-right exemption covers only precipitation collected from an artificial impervious surface (roof, etc.). OSU Extension (citing ORS 537.141) adds that the water must not touch soil at any point from harvest to storage; runoff captured into ponds/reservoirs is regulated differently.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No OWRD water right or permit needed (ORS 537.141(1)(h)). Local building permit may be needed for large tanks (OSU: e.g. >5,000 gal, site-dependent). Plumbing permit required for potable systems and for non-potable systems connected to indoor plumbing; none for exterior-only irrigation systems. Electrical permit for permanent pump power. OSU suggests a watermaster site visit to receive a letter of exempt use.","allowedUses":["outdoor irrigation / any non-potable use (no plumbing permit if all components are exterior)","non-potable indoor (toilet flushing, laundry) with plumbing permit under Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code Chapter 16","potable with plumbing permit under OPSC Appendix K, designed by a registered/licensed design professional"],"potableRules":"Potable rainwater systems require a plumbing permit and should be designed by a registered or licensed design professional; governed by Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code Appendix K (Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems).","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Oregon is a prior-appropriation state where most water uses need an OWRD water right; roof/impervious-surface rainwater is statutorily exempt, so no water right, application or certificate is needed as long as the water never contacts soil before storage.","citations":["ORS 537.141(1)(h)","Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code Chapter 16 (non-potable rainwater catchment) and Appendix K (potable rainwater catchment), as described by OSU Extension EM 9448"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors537.html","title":"ORS Chapter 537 (Oregon Legislature)","section":"537.141(1)(h)"},{"url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations","title":"OSU Extension EM 9448: Rainwater harvesting in tanks or cisterns: Oregon regulations (Dec 2024)","section":"FAQ"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"The following water uses do not require an application under ORS 537.130 or 537.615, a water right permit under ORS 537.211 or a water right certificate under ORS 537.250","url":"https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors537.html"},{"field":"status","text":"(h) The collection of precipitation water from an artificial impervious surface and the use of such water;","url":"https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors537.html"},{"field":"limits","text":"As long as the water does not come in contact with the soil at any time from harvest to storage, the collection of precipitation water from an artificial impervious surface into a tank or cistern","url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Systems with larger storage tanks (such as those greater than 5,000 gallons) are more likely to require a building permit from your local building official.","url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"rainwater is used only for non-potable uses such as irrigation, you do not need a plumbing permit.","url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"If the system is used for in-home applications, such as flushing toilets or washing clothes, whereby system components, pipings or fittings connect to plumbing or drainage inside a building or structure, a plumbing permit is required.","url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Do I need a plumbing permit to build a rainwater harvesting system for potable water? Yes. In addition, the system should be designed by a registered or licensed design professional.","url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"For most water sources in Oregon, users must obtain a water right in advance from the Oregon Water Resources Department. However, rainwater can provide a unique exemption to this rule","url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"If the system is used for in-home applications, such as flushing toilets or washing clothes, whereby system components, pipings or fittings connect to plumbing or drainage inside a building or structure, a plumbing permit is required.","url":"https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9448-rainwater-harvesting-tanks-or-cisterns-oregon-regulations"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"permit","special":[{"title":"Exempt from water rights","text":"Oregon exempts rain collected from a roof or other artificial impervious surface from its water-right permit system (ORS 537.141(1)(h)). OSU Extension adds that the water must not touch the soil between harvest and storage."}]},{"code":"PA","name":"Pennsylvania","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state statute on rain barrels and no volume cap. Plumbed nonpotable rainwater systems fall under the Uniform Construction Code, which adopts the 2021 International Residential Code (Section P2912, Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems) and the 2021 International Plumbing Code (Chapter 13) by reference; use and application of nonpotable water must also comply with local laws and ordinances. Simple outdoor rain barrels are not specifically regulated at state level.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state rainwater permit or registration found. Plumbed systems are subject to UCC plumbing permitting by the municipality or its code official (Allegheny County, a county of the second class, runs its own plumbing code). Whether a stand-alone barrel or cistern needs a local permit depends on the municipality.","allowedUses":["watering gardens and lawns, washing cars, cleaning windows (Penn State Extension)","nonpotable indoor uses via IRC P2912 / IPC Ch. 13-compliant systems","drinking only if cistern water is tested and treated to drinking-water standards (Penn State Extension; no state rule)"],"potableRules":"No state rule specific to rainwater for drinking was found. Penn State Extension guidance: never drink rain-barrel water; cisterns used for drinking need testing and treatment to meet drinking-water standards.","incentives":[{"name":"Philadelphia Water Department Rain Check","type":"in-kind","amount":"Free rain barrel, installed; other tools (downspout planter, rain garden, porous paving) installed at a reduced price (cost-share)","eligibility":"Philadelphia residential property owners; sign up through a Rain Check workshop (program site pwdraincheck.org)","url":"https://www.phila.gov/programs/rain-check/","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["34 Pa. Code §403.21 (Uniform Construction Code adoption of the 2021 IRC and 2021 IPC)","2021 International Residential Code Section P2912 (Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems), as adopted by reference"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/034/chapter403/s403.21.html","title":"34 Pa. Code §403.21 Uniform Construction Code","section":"(a)(6) IPC 2021; (a)(7) IRC 2021"},{"url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P2/chapter-29-water-supply-and-distribution","title":"2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 29 (ICC)","section":"P2912.1"},{"url":"https://extension.psu.edu/rainwater-catchment-systems-help-reduce-stormwater-impacts","title":"Penn State Extension: Rainwater Catchment Systems Help Reduce Stormwater Impacts","section":"Rain barrels; Cisterns"},{"url":"https://extension.psu.edu/rain-barrels-information-and-guide","title":"Penn State Extension: Rain Barrels: Information and Guide","section":"Contamination"},{"url":"https://www.phila.gov/programs/rain-check/","title":"City of Philadelphia: Rain Check","section":"program summary"},{"url":"https://water.phila.gov/stormwater/incentives/","title":"Philadelphia Water Department: Stormwater Incentives","section":"Rain Check"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"The Department adopts and incorporates by reference the following codes as the Uniform Construction Code:","url":"https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/034/chapter403/s403.21.html"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"The provisions of this section shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P2/chapter-29-water-supply-and-distribution"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"The water from a barrel can be used for various purposes, including watering gardens and lawns, washing cars, cleaning windows, and many others.","url":"https://extension.psu.edu/rainwater-catchment-systems-help-reduce-stormwater-impacts"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"this water should never be used as a source of drinking water as it is likely to be contaminated with leaf litter, bird droppings, or other contaminants.","url":"https://extension.psu.edu/rainwater-catchment-systems-help-reduce-stormwater-impacts"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"cistern water usually contains contaminants like bacteria, so getting the water tested and treated is important to ensure it meets drinking water standards.","url":"https://extension.psu.edu/rainwater-catchment-systems-help-reduce-stormwater-impacts"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"A municipality within a county of the second class may not administer and enforce the ‘‘International Plumbing Code’’ adopted under this chapter.","url":"https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/034/chapter403/s403.21.html"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Manage the stormwater at your home with a free rain barrel, downspout planter, rain garden, or porous paving installed at a reduced price.","url":"https://www.phila.gov/programs/rain-check/"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Rain Check is the main incentive for residential property owners who want rain barrels, planters, or other free or discounted stormwater management practices installed on their property.","url":"https://water.phila.gov/stormwater/incentives/"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"The ''International Residential Code of 2021,'' except that:","url":"https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/034/chapter403/s403.21.html"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Rain Check helps Philadelphia residents manage stormwater with free rain barrels and cost-share green stormwater tools.","url":"https://www.pwdraincheck.org/"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"The water from a barrel can be used for various purposes, including watering gardens and lawns, washing cars, cleaning windows, and many others.","url":"https://extension.psu.edu/rainwater-catchment-systems-help-reduce-stormwater-impacts"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"RI","name":"Rhode Island","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":null,"allowedUses":["outdoor lawn and garden use (RI DEM guidance; not a statutory limit)"],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":[],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/take-action/simple-steps/rain-barrels.php","title":"RI DEM: Rain Barrels","section":"What Is A Rain Barrel?"},{"url":"https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE44/44-30/44-II/INDEX.htm","title":"R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 44-30 Part II index (Personal Income Tax, residents)","section":"index of sections (ends at 44-30-27)"},{"url":"https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText12/HouseText12/H7070.htm","title":"2012 H 7070 (proposed cistern income-tax credit)","section":"bill text"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"By collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops for lawn and garden use, rain barrels stop stormwater runoff from flowing to the nearest storm drain.","url":"https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/take-action/simple-steps/rain-barrels.php"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"That stored water can then be used later, usually to water lawns or for other outdoor water uses. So a rain barrel helps prevent stormwater pollution and conserves water!","url":"https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/take-action/simple-steps/rain-barrels.php"},{"field":"notes","text":"§ 44-30-26. Tax credit for surviving spouse. § 44-30-27. Farm to school income tax credit.","url":"https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE44/44-30/44-II/INDEX.htm"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"SC","name":"South Carolina","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No state statute on rain barrels and no volume cap. Plumbed nonpotable rainwater systems are covered by the mandatory statewide codes: the 2021 International Residential Code (Section P2912, Nonpotable Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems) and 2021 International Plumbing Code (Chapter 13), adopted with SC modifications that do not amend those sections, enforced by every municipality and county from January 1, 2023. Simple outdoor rain barrels are not specifically regulated at state level.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state rainwater permit or registration found. Plumbed systems fall under the mandatory building/plumbing codes enforced by local building departments, which set the permit procedures (administrative provisions are adopted locally). No state permit is indicated for a stand-alone barrel.","allowedUses":["irrigating landscape beds, gardens and container plants; washing cars/pets; filling birdbaths (Clemson Extension)","nonpotable indoor uses via code-compliant P2912 / IPC Ch. 13 systems","not for drinking, cooking or other potable use without further treatment (Clemson Extension)"],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["S.C. Code Ann. §6-9-50 (mandatory building codes) and S.C. Code Regs. ch. 8 (Building Codes Council modifications, Articles 12 and 14)","2021 International Residential Code Section P2912 and 2021 International Plumbing Code Chapter 13, as adopted statewide"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://llr.sc.gov/bcc/PDFfiles/Building%20Codes%20in%20Effect%20for%20South%20Carolina%20Final.pdf","title":"SC LLR: Building Codes in Effect for South Carolina (12/2022)","section":"Latest Code Adoption"},{"url":"https://www.llr.sc.gov/bcc/PDFfiles/2021-Code-Modifications.pdf","title":"SC Building Codes Council 2021 Code Modifications (State Register Vol. 46, Issue 5)","section":"Articles 12 (IRC) and 14 (IPC) modification lists"},{"url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P2/chapter-29-water-supply-and-distribution","title":"2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 29 (ICC)","section":"P2912.1"},{"url":"https://www.clemson.edu/extension/raingarden/files/rwhmanual.pdf","title":"Clemson Extension / Carolina Clear: Rainwater Harvesting for Homeowners","section":"uses; water quality"},{"url":"https://www.clemson.edu/extension/raingarden/rainwater-harvesting.html","title":"Clemson Extension Carolina Rain Garden Initiative: Rainwater Harvesting","section":"Why harvest rainwater?"}],"quotes":[{"field":"limits","text":"The mandatory codes referenced in S.C, Ann. §6 -9-50(1976, as amended), modified and adopted by the South Carolina Building Codes Council (Council), must be enforced by every South Carolina municipality and county.","url":"https://llr.sc.gov/bcc/PDFfiles/Building%20Codes%20in%20Effect%20for%20South%20Carolina%20Final.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"2021 South Carolina Residential Code or the 2021 International Residential Code with SC modifications","url":"https://llr.sc.gov/bcc/PDFfiles/Building%20Codes%20in%20Effect%20for%20South%20Carolina%20Final.pdf"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"The provisions of this section shall govern the construction, installation, alteration and repair of rainwater collection and conveyance systems for the collection, storage, treatment and distribution of rainwater for nonpotable applications.","url":"https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P2/chapter-29-water-supply-and-distribution"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Administrative policies and procedures are the sole responsibility of each local jurisdiction.","url":"https://llr.sc.gov/bcc/PDFfiles/Building%20Codes%20in%20Effect%20for%20South%20Carolina%20Final.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"This source of water can be used to irrigate landscape beds, butterfly gardens, rain gardens, and container plants, as well as to create wildlife features such as birdbaths","url":"https://www.clemson.edu/extension/raingarden/rainwater-harvesting.html"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Remember, this water is not for drinking, cooking or other potable use without further treatment!","url":"https://www.clemson.edu/extension/raingarden/files/rwhmanual.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"This source of water can be used to irrigate landscape beds, butterfly gardens, rain gardens, and container plants, as well as to create wildlife features such as birdbaths","url":"https://www.clemson.edu/extension/raingarden/rainwater-harvesting.html"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"SD","name":"South Dakota","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":null,"allowedUses":[],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"South Dakota is a prior-appropriation state: all water belongs to the people of the state and use rights are acquired by appropriation (SDCL 46-1-3). DANR says a water right permit is needed for every use except domestic use (household drinking/washing/culinary, noncommercial garden/tree irrigation up to one acre, stock watering) under 25,920 gallons/day or 25 gpm. No statute, rule or DANR statement specifically addresses rooftop rainwater capture, so whether it counts as an appropriation is unaddressed; a household rain barrel used for garden watering would fall within the domestic-use categories if it were treated as a water use at all (inference, not an official statement).","citations":["SDCL 46-1-3 (water as property of the people; appropriation)","SDCL 46-1-6(7) (definition of domestic use) - context only; no rainwater provision found"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/2066644","title":"SDCL 46-1-3","section":"Water as property of people--Appropriation of right to use"},{"url":"https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes?Statute=46-1-6","title":"SDCL 46-1-6","section":"(7) Domestic use"},{"url":"https://danr.sd.gov/OfficeOfWater/WaterRights/Wateruse/default.aspx","title":"SD DANR: Using Water in South Dakota","section":"Domestic use exemption"},{"url":"https://danr.sd.gov/OfficeOfWater/WaterRights/Legal/summary.aspx","title":"SD DANR: Summary of South Dakota Water Right Laws and Rules","section":"Domestic water use (no permit needed)"}],"quotes":[{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"It is hereby declared that all water within the state is the property of the people of the state, but the right to the use of water may be acquired by appropriation as provided by law.","url":"https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/2066644"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"The only type of water use which does not require a water right permit is domestic use. However, even domestic use of water requires a permit if your water use exceeds either 25,920 gallons per day","url":"https://danr.sd.gov/OfficeOfWater/WaterRights/Wateruse/default.aspx"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"irrigation of a noncommercial family garden, trees, shrubbery, or orchard not greater in area than one acre","url":"https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes?Statute=46-1-6"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"TN","name":"Tennessee","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":null,"allowedUses":["No state rule. UT Extension guidance (not law): rain barrel water is for lawns, gardens, ponds and birdbaths, and is not for drinking or human consumption."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":[],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://uthort.tennessee.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/228/2023/11/W276%20rain%20barrel.pdf","title":"UT Extension W276: Rain Barrels Make Good Sense","section":"Uses; contamination considerations"},{"url":"https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/water/tn-h2o/documents/plan-&-appendices/wr-tnh2o_plan-app_institutional-and-legal-framework-chapter.pdf","title":"TDEC TN H2O (2018): Institutional and Legal Framework chapter","section":"Searched; no rainwater-collection law described"},{"url":"https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillSearch/BillSearchAdvanced","title":"Tennessee General Assembly Advanced Bill Search","section":"keyword search 'rainwater', 'rain barrel', 'cistern', 103rd-114th General Assemblies (2003-2026)"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Water collected in rain barrels isn't drinkable, but it's perfect for lawns and gardens and for use in ponds and birdbaths.","url":"https://uthort.tennessee.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/228/2023/11/W276%20rain%20barrel.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Barrel water has bacteria in it so it is not for human consumption.","url":"https://uthort.tennessee.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/228/2023/11/W276%20rain%20barrel.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Water collected in rain barrels isn't drinkable, but it's perfect for lawns and gardens and for use in ponds and birdbaths.","url":"https://uthort.tennessee.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/228/2023/11/W276%20rain%20barrel.pdf"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"TX","name":"Texas","status":"legal_by_statute","limits":"No state volume cap or registration. HOAs cannot ban rain barrels or rainwater harvesting systems, but may regulate them in front yards/between the home and the street and set color/screening conditions (Property Code 202.007(d)(6)). Cities and counties may not deny a building permit solely because a facility uses rainwater harvesting, but may require the system to meet minimum state standards.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No state permit for residential roof-runoff collection. If a public water supply is used as an auxiliary source, the structure needs cross-connection safeguards; a privately owned system over 500 gallons with an auxiliary supply needs a backflow prevention assembly or air gap at the storage facility; the owner must give written notice to the municipality or water system, and the public supply may connect only to the storage tank, not to the building's plumbing. Potable systems connected to a public supply must be installed/maintained by a licensed master or journeyman plumber with a water supply protection specialist endorsement. Local building/plumbing permits can apply.","allowedUses":["Outdoor irrigation; non-potable and potable indoor use (drinking, cooking, bathing) are all contemplated by state law, with TCEQ recommended standards and cross-connection safeguards where a public water supply is also connected."],"potableRules":"TCEQ sets recommended (not mandatory) standards for harvested rainwater used for drinking, cooking or bathing. Public-water-system rules do not apply to a person harvesting rainwater for domestic use whose property is not connected to a public water system. Potable systems connected to a public water supply must be installed/maintained by a licensed master or journeyman plumber with a water supply protection specialist endorsement. TWDB: no state water-quality standards for harvested rainwater; check county health dept for local testing requirements.","incentives":[{"name":"Sales and use tax exemption for rainwater harvesting equipment (Tax Code 151.355)","type":"sales tax exemption","amount":"Full exemption from state sales and use tax","eligibility":"Rainwater harvesting equipment or supplies (and other equipment used solely to reduce or eliminate water use); TWDB: purchaser gives the supplier Texas exemption Form 01-339 (back of form).","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TX/htm/TX.151.htm#151.355","level":"state"},{"name":"Water-Efficient Products Sales Tax Holiday (Memorial Day weekend)","type":"sales tax exemption","amount":"No sales tax on qualifying purchases during the annual Memorial Day weekend holiday (2026: Saturday May 23 - Monday May 25; next holiday not yet announced)","eligibility":"Rain barrels or alternative rain and moisture collection systems bought for use at a residential property during the holiday; no exemption certificate needed.","url":"https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1018.php","level":"state"},{"name":"Austin Water Rainwater Harvesting rebate","type":"rebate","amount":"Up to $5,000 based on storage capacity","eligibility":"Austin Water customers (and customers of qualifying partner water providers) installing a rain barrel or cistern system.","url":"https://www.austintexas.gov/water/programs/rebates-tools-programs","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":"Texas Water Code 11.021 declares the storm water, floodwater and rainwater of every watercourse and watershed to be state property, but the Legislature has separately and expressly promoted residential rainwater harvesting (Property Code 202.007, Local Government Code 580.004, Health & Safety Code 341.042, Tax Code 151.355), and no state water-right permit is required for rooftop collection.","citations":["Tex. Tax Code § 151.355(1)","Tex. Property Code § 202.007","Tex. Health & Safety Code § 341.042","Tex. Local Government Code § 580.004","Tex. Water Code § 11.021","Tex. Tax Code § 11.32 (optional local property tax exemption for approved water conservation initiatives)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TX/htm/TX.151.htm#151.355","title":"Texas Tax Code ch. 151","section":"§ 151.355 Water-related exemptions"},{"url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.202.htm#202.007","title":"Texas Property Code ch. 202","section":"§ 202.007 Certain restrictive covenants prohibited"},{"url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.341.htm#341.042","title":"Texas Health & Safety Code ch. 341","section":"§ 341.042 Standards for harvested rainwater"},{"url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/LG/htm/LG.580.htm#580.004","title":"Texas Local Government Code ch. 580","section":"§ 580.004 Rainwater harvesting"},{"url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/WA/htm/WA.11.htm#11.021","title":"Texas Water Code ch. 11","section":"§ 11.021 State water"},{"url":"https://www.twdb.texas.gov/innovativewater/rainwater/faq.asp","title":"TWDB Rainwater Harvesting FAQ","section":"Q14 safety; plumbing standards"},{"url":"https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1018.php","title":"Texas Comptroller: Water-Efficient Products Sales Tax Holiday","section":"Qualifying water-conserving products"},{"url":"https://www.austintexas.gov/water/programs/rebates-tools-programs","title":"Austin Water: Rebates, Tools & Programs","section":"Landscape rebates"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"A property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from:","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.202.htm#202.007"},{"field":"status","text":"(2) installing rain barrels or a rainwater harvesting system;","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.202.htm#202.007"},{"field":"limits","text":"A municipality or county may not deny a building permit solely because the facility will implement rainwater harvesting. However, a municipality or county may require that a rainwater harvesting system comply with the minimum state standards","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/LG/htm/LG.580.htm#580.004"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"A privately owned rainwater harvesting system with a capacity of more than 500 gallons that has an auxiliary water supply shall have a backflow prevention assembly or an air gap installed at the storage facility","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.341.htm#341.042"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"There are currently no federal or state plumbing standards for rainwater harvesting systems that are not connected to a public water supply system.","url":"https://www.twdb.texas.gov/innovativewater/rainwater/faq.asp"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Rainwater harvesting is the capture and storage of rainwater for landscape irrigation, potable and non-potable indoor use, and storm water abatement.","url":"https://www.twdb.texas.gov/innovativewater/rainwater/faq.asp"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"The commission shall establish recommended standards relating to the domestic use of harvested rainwater, including health and safety standards for treatment and collection methods for harvested rainwater intended for drinking, cooking, or bathing.","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.341.htm#341.042"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"governing public drinking water supply systems do not apply to a person: (1) who harvests rainwater for domestic use; and (2) whose property is not connected to a public drinking water supply system.","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.341.htm#341.042"},{"field":"incentives","text":"The following are exempted from taxes imposed by this chapter: (1) rainwater harvesting equipment or supplies, water recycling and reuse equipment or supplies","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TX/htm/TX.151.htm#151.355"},{"field":"incentives","text":"a rain barrel or an alternative rain and moisture collection system","url":"https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1018.php"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Rainwater Harvesting — installing a rain barrel or cistern system","url":"https://www.austintexas.gov/water/programs/rebates-tools-programs"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"the storm water, floodwater, and rainwater of every river, natural stream, canyon, ravine, depression, and watershed in the state is the property of the state.","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/WA/htm/WA.11.htm#11.021"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Up to $5,000 based on storage capacity","url":"https://www.austintexas.gov/water/programs/rebates-tools-programs"},{"field":"incentives","text":"a purchaser of rainwater harvesting equipment must furnish a tax exemption application Form 01-339 (back of form) to the supplier of the equipment.","url":"https://www.twdb.texas.gov/innovativewater/rainwater/faq.asp"},{"field":"incentives","text":"The 2026 holiday begins Saturday, May 23, and goes through Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day).","url":"https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1018.php"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"the commission by rule shall provide that if a structure has a rainwater harvesting system and uses a public water supply for an auxiliary water source, the structure must have appropriate cross-connection safeguards.","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.341.htm#341.042"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Each municipality and county is encouraged to promote rainwater harvesting at residential, commercial, and industrial facilities through incentives","url":"https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/LG/htm/LG.580.htm#580.004"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[{"title":"HOAs, sales tax and rebates","text":"A property owners' association can't ban rain barrels or rainwater harvesting systems, though it can regulate them in front yards and set colour and screening conditions. Rainwater harvesting equipment is exempt from state sales tax, and rain barrels are also tax-free in the annual Memorial Day weekend sales tax holiday (May 23 to 25 in 2026)."}]},{"code":"UT","name":"Utah","status":"legal_with_limits","limits":"Without registering: up to two covered containers, each no larger than 100 gallons. With free online registration with the Division of Water Rights: total storage up to 2,500 gallons per parcel (one or more containers), installed per the State Construction Code. Water must be used on the same parcel where it is captured. The use does not create a water right and cannot be changed, assigned or consolidated with one.","permitRequired":"above_threshold","permitNotes":"No permit or water right needed. Registration (not a permit) with the Utah Division of Water Rights is required if you use more than two containers or any container over 100 gallons; the cap with registration is 2,500 gallons. Registration is free and asks for name, address, total container capacity and location.","allowedUses":["Any beneficial use on the parcel where it is collected (state law does not limit it to irrigation); USU Extension frames rain barrels mainly for landscape/garden watering. Must comply with state law and local health and safety rules."],"potableRules":"No Utah-specific potable rainwater standard found. The statute requires beneficial use to comply with state law and local health and safety rules and regulations, so drinking use would fall under local health department rules.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Utah is a prior-appropriation state where precipitation capture otherwise needs a water right; 73-3-1.5 carves out a limited exception ('Notwithstanding Section 73-3-2') for small-volume rooftop/parcel capture. The captured water is not a water right.","citations":["Utah Code § 73-3-1.5 (Capture and storage of precipitation; amended 2013 Gen. Sess. ch. 260)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title73/Chapter3/73-3-S1.5.html","title":"Utah Code 73-3-1.5","section":"Capture and storage of precipitation (current version)"},{"url":"https://waterrights.utah.gov/forms/rainwater.asp","title":"Utah Division of Water Rights: Rainwater Harvesting Registration","section":"Registration page"},{"url":"https://extension.usu.edu/sustainability/research/rain-barrels-in-utah","title":"USU Extension: Rain Barrels in Utah","section":"Utah rainwater harvesting regulations"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"Notwithstanding Section 73-3-2, a person may: (a) directly capture and store precipitation on a parcel owned or leased by the person in accordance with Subsection (3) or (4)","url":"https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title73/Chapter3/73-3-S1.5.html"},{"field":"limits","text":"A person may collect and store precipitation, without registering under Subsection (5), in no more than two covered storage containers if neither covered storage container has a maximum storage capacity of greater than 100 gallons.","url":"https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title73/Chapter3/73-3-S1.5.html"},{"field":"limits","text":"for a person who uses more than one container on a parcel, the aggregate capacity of the containers is no more than 2,500 gallons.","url":"https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title73/Chapter3/73-3-S1.5.html"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"The total allowed storage capacity with registration is no more than 2,500 gallons. Collection and use are limited to the same parcel of land on which the water is captured and stored.","url":"https://waterrights.utah.gov/forms/rainwater.asp"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"There is no charge for registration.","url":"https://waterrights.utah.gov/forms/rainwater.asp"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"place the water captured and stored as provided in Subsection (2)(a) to beneficial use on the parcel on which the water is captured and stored.","url":"https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title73/Chapter3/73-3-S1.5.html"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"A person who beneficially uses water under Subsection (2)(b) shall comply with: (a) state law; and (b) local health and safety rules and regulations.","url":"https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title73/Chapter3/73-3-S1.5.html"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Beneficial use of water under Subsection (2)(b) does not constitute a water right and may not be: (a) changed under Section 73-3-3; (b) assigned; or (c) consolidated with a water right.","url":"https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title73/Chapter3/73-3-S1.5.html"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Rainwater harvesting is a win-win situation for the environment and homeowner.","url":"https://extension.usu.edu/sustainability/research/rain-barrels-in-utah"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":"2 containers of up to 100 gal each; 2,500 gal total with free registration","potable":null,"special":[{"title":"Registration, not a permit","text":"Past two containers of 100 gallons, you register with the Utah Division of Water Rights, which is free and is not a permit, and may then store up to 2,500 gallons. The water must be used on the parcel where it was caught, and using it never becomes a water right."}]},{"code":"VT","name":"Vermont","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"No state law on rain barrels found. If harvested rainwater is plumbed into a building as a nonpotable system, the Vermont Plumbing Rules (which adopt the 2018 International Plumbing Code) require prior approval from the Agency of Natural Resources Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division. The Plumbing Rules apply to public buildings and buildings connected to public water or sewer; owner-occupied single-family homes not on public water/sewer do not need a work notice.","allowedUses":["State DEC guidance (not law) promotes rain barrels for homeowners as a supplemental non-potable supply for irrigation and car washing; plumbed indoor nonpotable use needs ANR prior approval under the Plumbing Rules."],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Vermont Plumbing Rules (Plumbers' Examining Board, eff. July 15, 2019), Section 21 adopting the 2018 International Plumbing Code with Vermont amendment Section 1301.1.1 (Nonpotable Water Systems)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://dec.vermont.gov/sites/dec/files/wsm/erp/docs/2018-06-14%20VT_Guide_to_Stormwater_for_Homeowners.pdf","title":"Vermont DEC: Guide to Stormwater Management for Homeowners and Small Businesses (2018)","section":"Rain Barrels, p. 17-18"},{"url":"https://firesafety.vermont.gov/sites/firesafety/files/files/rules/dfs_rules_plumbing_current.pdf","title":"Vermont Plumbing Rules (current)","section":"Section 2 Scope; Section 21 IPC amendments, 1301.1.1"},{"url":"https://dec.vermont.gov/sites/dec/files/dwgwp/rorules/pdf/Wastewater%20Systems%20and%20Potable%20Water%20Supply%20Rules_11-06-2023%20with%202024%20corrections.pdf","title":"Vermont Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply Rules (11-06-2023, 2024 corrections)","section":"Full text searched; no rainwater provision"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Section 1301.1.1 Nonpotable Water Systems: Contact Agency of Natural Resources Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division for prior approval.","url":"https://firesafety.vermont.gov/sites/firesafety/files/files/rules/dfs_rules_plumbing_current.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Owner-occupied single family residences which are not on public water systems or public sewage systems do not require a work notice.","url":"https://firesafety.vermont.gov/sites/firesafety/files/files/rules/dfs_rules_plumbing_current.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Provides supplemental, non-potable water supply for irrigation","url":"https://dec.vermont.gov/sites/dec/files/wsm/erp/docs/2018-06-14%20VT_Guide_to_Stormwater_for_Homeowners.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"RAIN BARREL. Collects and stores stormwater from guttered roof downspouts. Water can be used later for activities such as car washing or irrigation.","url":"https://dec.vermont.gov/sites/dec/files/wsm/erp/docs/2018-06-14%20VT_Guide_to_Stormwater_for_Homeowners.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"The purpose of this guide is to help homeowners and small business owners who are not subject to stormwater permits and regulations identify ways to improve and protect water quality","url":"https://dec.vermont.gov/sites/dec/files/wsm/erp/docs/2018-06-14%20VT_Guide_to_Stormwater_for_Homeowners.pdf"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Section 1301.1.1 Nonpotable Water Systems: Contact Agency of Natural Resources Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division for prior approval.","url":"https://firesafety.vermont.gov/sites/firesafety/files/files/rules/dfs_rules_plumbing_current.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"VA","name":"Virginia","status":"legal_with_limits","limits":"No volume cap. Rain barrels are excluded from the regulation (12VAC5-635-20 B: 'individual containers used to collect and temporarily store rainwater solely for Tier 1 end use'; VDH's FAQ defines a rain barrel as up to 100 gallons), however many you have. Other non-potable systems (e.g. an irrigation cistern) installed, altered or rehabilitated on/after Nov 20, 2024 need no permit but must be registered with VDH within 30 days and meet design rules (screens/prefiltration, first-flush diverter, filtration and disinfection for Tier 2-3 uses). Systems in place before Nov 20, 2024 are exempt unless altered. Potable (Tier 4) systems need VDH construction and operating permits.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No VDH permit for rain barrels or for non-potable (Tier 1-3) systems; non-barrel Tier 1-3 systems must file a VDH registration form within 30 days of installation. Any use for human consumption (Tier 4) requires a VDH construction permit and an operating permit, plus copies to the local building official; designers/installers/inspectors must hold ASSE rainwater certifications.","allowedUses":["Tier 1 (irrigation, trap primers), Tier 2 (toilet/urinal flushing, clothes washing, HVAC), Tier 3 (hose bibs, pressure/vehicle washing, fountains, unrestricted spray irrigation) without a permit; Tier 4 potable use (drinking, cooking, bathing, showering) with VDH permits."],"potableRules":"12VAC5-635 (effective Nov 20, 2024): Tier 4 potable systems need a VDH construction permit and operating permit, filtration and disinfection (single-family homes may use only UV or ozone disinfection), certified-lab water testing (coliform/E. coli, nitrate/nitrite, pH, lead) before use and on an ongoing schedule, and ASSE-certified designers/installers/inspectors. Localities may not force owners of Tier 4 systems to connect to municipal water.","incentives":[{"name":"Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP) - rainwater harvesting practice","type":"cost-share","amount":"$4 per gallon treated, up to a 1-inch storm over the contributing drainage area (rate as described in a DCR overview updated Jan 2024; confirm at signup)","eligibility":"Residential and other urban properties in PARTICIPATING Soil and Water Conservation Districts only; run by the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, a private nonprofit (501(c)(5)) association of the districts - not a state agency program; funding first-come.","url":"https://vaswcd.org/vcap/","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Va. Code § 32.1-248.2 (Use of rainwater and reuse of gray water; regulations; amended 2025 c. 358)","12VAC5-635 Rainwater Harvesting System Regulations (eff. Nov 20, 2024; 635-20 amended eff. Oct 8, 2025), esp. 12VAC5-635-20, -70, -90, -250, -260, -270, -310"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title32.1/chapter6/section32.1-248.2/","title":"Code of Virginia § 32.1-248.2","section":"Use of rainwater and reuse of gray water; regulations"},{"url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/","title":"12VAC5-635 Rainwater Harvesting System Regulations","section":"Full chapter"},{"url":"https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/environmental-health-services/rainwater-harvesting/","title":"VDH: Rainwater Harvesting","section":"FAQ"},{"url":"https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/soil-and-water/document/C-New-Director-Training-VCAP.pdf","title":"DCR: Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP) overview (updated Jan 2024)","section":"VCAP practices and specifications"},{"url":"https://www.tax.virginia.gov/sites/default/files/vatax-pdf/2024-schedule-cr-instructions.pdf","title":"Virginia Tax: Instructions for 2024 Schedule CR (individual credits)","section":"List of credits (no rainwater credit)"}],"quotes":[{"field":"status","text":"An owner may install and operate a rainwater harvesting system intended for Tier 1, 2, or 3 end use without a permit.","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"limits","text":"Rain barrels (individual containers used to collect and temporarily store rainwater solely for Tier 1 end use);","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"limits","text":"No , rain barrels are not regulated . VDH encourages the use of rain barrels but rain barrels are specifically excluded from these regulations. This is the case no matter how many rain barrels you use on your property.","url":"https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/environmental-health-services/rainwater-harvesting/"},{"field":"limits","text":"This chapter does not apply to rainwater harvesting systems installed, altered, or rehabilitated prior to November 20, 2024, unless the rainwater harvesting system is altered or rehabilitated after November 20, 2024.","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"No, VDH does not require a permit for the construction or operation of a non-potable use rainwater harvesting system.","url":"https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/environmental-health-services/rainwater-harvesting/"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"The owner of a Tier 1, 2, or 3 end use rainwater harvesting system shall file a registration form with the department within 30 calendar days of the following: 1. Installing a rainwater harvesting system","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Tier 2. Medium exposure end use: Nonpotable water use where human contact with treated rainwater is indirect or limited. Examples include toilet and urinal flushing, clothes washing","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"No person may install, alter, or rehabilitate or allow the installation, alteration, or rehabilitation of a rainwater harvesting system intended for Tier 4 end use without a written construction permit from the commissioner.","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"A rainwater harvesting system for end use in a single-family home shall only use ultraviolet or ozone disinfection methods.","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"No locality shall adopt any local ordinance requiring owners of Tier 4 rainwater harvesting systems, as that term is described in the Rainwater Harvesting System Regulations (12VAC5-635), to connect to any municipal water supply","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title32.1/chapter6/section32.1-248.2/"},{"field":"incentives","text":"Some practices have a per-unit cost share rate. For example, rainwater harvesting is calculated as a $4 per gallon treated, up to a 1\" storm for the contributing drainage area.","url":"https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/soil-and-water/document/C-New-Director-Training-VCAP.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"individual container of up to 100 gallon capacity used to store and collect rainwater solely for use on a property for Tier 1 end use","url":"https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/environmental-health-services/rainwater-harvesting/"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"VDH encourages the use of rain barrels but rain barrels are specifically excluded from these regulations.","url":"https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/environmental-health-services/rainwater-harvesting/"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"An owner may install and operate a rainwater harvesting system intended for Tier 1, 2, or 3 end use without a permit.","url":"https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodefull/title12/agency5/chapter635/"},{"field":"incentives","text":"The Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP) is an urban cost-share program that provides financial incentives and technical and educational assistance to property owners installing eligible best management practices (BMPs) in Virginia's participating Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs).","url":"https://vaswcd.org/vcap/"}],"confidence":"high","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"permit","special":[{"title":"Barrels are exempt; other systems register","text":"Rain barrels fall outside Virginia's rainwater regulation however many you have (the health department's FAQ puts a barrel at up to 100 gallons). Any other non-drinking system, such as an irrigation cistern, installed or altered on or after November 20, 2024 needs no permit but must be registered with the Virginia Department of Health within 30 days. Drinking-water systems need construction and operating permits."}]},{"code":"WA","name":"Washington","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No volume cap. Conditions under Ecology's 2009 interpretive policy (POL-1017): rainwater must be used on the property where it is collected, and the collecting roof must belong to a structure whose primary purpose is not rainwater collection. Ecology reserves the right to set local restrictions on new systems if cumulative collection harms instream flows or existing water rights.","permitRequired":"no","permitNotes":"No water right permit is needed for on-site storage and use of rooftop-collected rainwater (Ecology POL-1017, effective 10/09/2009). Plumbing rainwater into a home for in-home use needs approval from the local building department under the Uniform Plumbing Code; using rainwater as the primary drinking supply for new construction needs county approval.","allowedUses":["Outdoor irrigation and other on-site beneficial uses; in-home (plumbed) use with local building department approval under the Uniform Plumbing Code; drinking-water use only where the county allows it and with treatment."],"potableRules":"Washington Department of Health’s Office of Drinking Water treats rainwater as surface water subject to the Surface Water Treatment Rule. Some counties allow rainwater as a drinking source, many do not; check with the county planning department, and treatment is required.","incentives":[{"name":"RainWise rebate (King County Wastewater Treatment Division and Seattle Public Utilities)","type":"rebate","amount":"Up to 100% of the cost of cisterns and rain gardens; average about $4,740","eligibility":"Private properties in eligible Seattle combined-sewer-overflow basins (check address on the RainWise eligibility map); project designed/built by a RainWise-trained contractor.","url":"https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dnrp/waste-services/wastewater-treatment/programs/rainwise","level":"local"}],"waterRightsNote":"Washington is a prior-appropriation state (RCW 90.03 permit system). Ecology's interpretive policy POL-1017 states that on-site storage/use of rooftop-collected rainwater is not subject to the RCW 90.03 permit process, but Ecology may impose local restrictions on new systems if cumulative harvesting harms instream values or existing water rights. The policy is guidance, not an adopted rule.","citations":["Washington Dept. of Ecology Water Resources Program Policy POL-1017, Collection of Rainwater for Beneficial Use (effective 10/09/2009), interpreting ch. 90.03 and 90.54 RCW","RCW 35.67.020(3) and RCW 36.89.080(2) (mandatory minimum 10% stormwater-rate reduction for new or remodeled COMMERCIAL buildings with rainwater harvesting; not residential)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://appswr.ecology.wa.gov/docs/WaterRights/wrwebpdf/pol1017.pdf","title":"Ecology POL-1017: Collection of Rainwater for Beneficial Use","section":"Full policy"},{"url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection","title":"Washington Department of Ecology: Rainwater collection","section":"When does rainwater collection require a permit?"},{"url":"https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35.67.020","title":"RCW 35.67.020","section":"(3) stormwater rate reduction"},{"url":"https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=36.89.080","title":"RCW 36.89.080","section":"(2) stormwater rate reduction"},{"url":"https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dnrp/waste-services/wastewater-treatment/programs/rainwise","title":"King County: Be RainWise","section":"Rebate overview"}],"quotes":[{"field":"permitRequired","text":"The on-site storage and/or beneficial use of rooftop or guzzler collected rainwater is not subject to the permit process of RCW 90.03.","url":"https://appswr.ecology.wa.gov/docs/WaterRights/wrwebpdf/pol1017.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"To qualify as rooftop collected rainwater, the roof collecting the rainwater must be part of a fixed structure above the ground with a primary purpose other than the collection of rainwater for beneficial use.","url":"https://appswr.ecology.wa.gov/docs/WaterRights/wrwebpdf/pol1017.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"Rainwater must be used on the property where it is collected.","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"},{"field":"permitRequired","text":"Under our current policy, you don’t need a water right permit to collect rainwater, with a few conditions:","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Water collected for in-home use requires approval from your local building department. Plumbing systems are strictly regulated through the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC).","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Simple rain barrels are relatively inexpensive and can be used to reduce the use of potable (drinkable) water for irrigation.","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"For regulation purposes, the Washington Department of Health’s Office of Drinking Water considers rainwater to be surface water subject to the requirements of the Surface Water Treatment Rule.","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Some counties in Washington may allow rainwater collection for drinking water; however, many counties do not.","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"},{"field":"incentives","text":"RainWise rebates cover most or all of the cost of installing cisterns and rain gardens on private properties in eligible combined sewer overflow basins. The average rebate is approximately $4,740.","url":"https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dnrp/waste-services/wastewater-treatment/programs/rainwise"},{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"If and when the department determines that rooftop or guzzler rainwater harvesting systems are likely to negatively affect instream values or existing water rights, local restrictions may be set in place to govern subsequent new systems.","url":"https://appswr.ecology.wa.gov/docs/WaterRights/wrwebpdf/pol1017.pdf"},{"field":"status","text":"These policies and procedures are not formal administrative regulations that have been adopted through a rule-making process.","url":"https://appswr.ecology.wa.gov/docs/WaterRights/wrwebpdf/pol1017.pdf"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"Simple rain barrels are relatively inexpensive and can be used to reduce the use of potable (drinkable) water for irrigation.","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Water collected for in-home use requires approval from your local building department. Plumbing systems are strictly regulated through the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC).","url":"https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-supply/water-recovery-solutions/rainwater-collection"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[{"title":"Guidance, not law","text":"Washington's permission comes from a Department of Ecology policy (POL-1017, 2009), which says rooftop rainwater stored and used on site needs no water-right permit. The policy states that it is not a formal regulation, which is why Washington is listed here as having no state law on the subject."}]},{"code":"WV","name":"West Virginia","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":null,"allowedUses":["No state rule on rain barrels. WV DEP (guidance, not law) promotes rain barrels for watering plants and washing cars; the state health agency recognizes cisterns as a potable household water source only with disinfection (see potableRules)."],"potableRules":"Guidance only: the WV Office of Environmental Health Services recognises cisterns as a potable individual supply but says they are not Department-approved without a chlorinator or ultraviolet light; contact the local health department for construction guidelines. No rule specific to drinking rainwater was found.","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["W. Va. Code § 16-1-9 (permits for water supply systems; backflow prevention where a public supply cross-connects with a cistern of 85 gallons or larger)","WV Office of Environmental Health Services guidance on individual water supplies (cisterns; Environmental Health Procedure Memoranda DW-38 and DW-1)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":true,"sources":[{"url":"https://dep.wv.gov/WWE/getinvolved/WET/Pages/Rain-barrel-program.aspx","title":"WV DEP: Rain Barrel and Stormwater Education","section":"What Is a Rain Barrel?"},{"url":"https://oehs.wvdhhr.org/phs/public-health-sanitation/individual-water-supplies/","title":"WV Office of Environmental Health Services: Individual Water Supplies","section":"Cisterns, and Springs"},{"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/16-1-9/","title":"W. Va. Code § 16-1-9","section":"Duties and powers of the commissioner; backflow prevention"},{"url":"https://dep.wv.gov/WWE/getinvolved/WET/Documents/Rain%20Barrel%20Q%26A.pdf","title":"WV DEP Watershed Improvement Branch: Rain Barrel Q&A (rev. 11/30/2021)","section":"Full sheet (maintenance only; no legal guidance)"}],"quotes":[{"field":"allowedUses","text":"A rain barrel is a rainwater collection system. Water is diverted into the barrel through a connection in the downspout. The rain collected can be used to water plants, wash cars, and more.","url":"https://dep.wv.gov/WWE/getinvolved/WET/Pages/Rain-barrel-program.aspx"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Other sources of potable water supplies include cisterns and springs, however these are not Department approved without the use of a chlorinator or ultraviolet light.","url":"https://oehs.wvdhhr.org/phs/public-health-sanitation/individual-water-supplies/"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"it cross-connects with any fluid storage tank, tub, pool or cistern 85 gallons or larger with a public water inlet that can be below the water level","url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/16-1-9/"},{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"water supply systems shall not require a backflow prevention assembly unless any of the following are met:","url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/16-1-9/"},{"field":"agencyEncourages","text":"The rain collected can be used to water plants, wash cars, and more.","url":"https://dep.wv.gov/WWE/getinvolved/WET/Pages/Rain-barrel-program.aspx"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]},{"code":"WI","name":"Wisconsin","status":"not_addressed","limits":"No volume cap or registration for collecting roof runoff was found. The state plumbing code treats roof runoff as 'storm water' and allows it to be reused under treatment standards that depend on the use (for example subsurface irrigation, surface/spray irrigation, toilet and urinal flushing, clothes washing, vehicle washing). Plumbed 'stormwater use systems' fall under the plumbing code. Stand-alone rain barrels are not specifically mentioned.","permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":"The plumbing code requires DSPS plan review and written approval before installing 'onsite residential and commercial water reuse treatment systems' designed to treat water to Table 382.70-1 standards, and reuse treatment devices must be NSF/ANSI 350 listed or DSPS-approved. No permit or registration requirement for a simple, unplumbed rain barrel was found (the code neither requires nor exempts one).","allowedUses":["Under SPS 382.34/382.70, storm water (including roof runoff) may be reused, meeting use-specific treatment standards, for subsurface irrigation, surface or spray irrigation, toilet/urinal flushing, and uses like clothes washing, vehicle washing and non-food-crop surface irrigation. Drinking, cooking, bathing and showering outlets must be supplied from NR 811/812-approved sources."],"potableRules":"Plumbing code Table 382.70-1 requires drinking, cooking, food preparation, personal hygiene, bathing and showering water to come from 'NR 811 and 812 approved sources' (public water systems and wells regulated by DNR). Rainwater is not listed as such a source, so potable indoor use of harvested rainwater through a building's plumbing is not provided for (other uses not listed require contacting DSPS for standards).","incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":null,"citations":["Wis. Admin. Code SPS 381.01 (definitions of 'storm water' and 'plumbing', incl. stormwater use systems)","Wis. Admin. Code SPS 382.34(3)(a) (treatment for reuse)","Wis. Admin. Code SPS 382.70 and Table 382.70-1 (plumbing treatment standards)","Wis. Admin. Code SPS 382.20(1)(a) and Table 382.20-1 item 7 (plan review of onsite water reuse treatment systems)","Wis. Admin. Code NR 812.07(20) (definition of cistern; setbacks only)"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":true,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382.pdf","title":"Wis. Admin. Code ch. SPS 382 (Register August 2026 No. 848)","section":"SPS 382.20, Table 382.20-1; SPS 382.34(3)(a); SPS 382.70, Table 382.70-1"},{"url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/381.pdf","title":"Wis. Admin. Code ch. SPS 381 (definitions)","section":"'Storm water'; 'Plumbing'"},{"url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382/iii/34","title":"SPS 382.34","section":"(3)(a) Treatment for reuse"},{"url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/nr/800/812.pdf","title":"Wis. Admin. Code ch. NR 812 (wells)","section":"Definition of cistern; setback tables"}],"quotes":[{"field":"plumbedSystemsRegulated","text":"Except as limited in subd. 2., graywater, storm water, clear water, blackwater and other wastewaters as approved by the department may be reused in conformance with s. SPS 382.70.","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382/iii/34"},{"field":"limits","text":"“Storm water” means wastewater from a precipitation event.","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/381.pdf"},{"field":"limits","text":"water supply systems, water distribution systems, wastewater drainage systems, reclaimed water systems, and stormwater use systems","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/381.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Onsite residential and commercial water reuse treatment systems, designed to treat water for compliance with Table 382.70-1.","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382.pdf"},{"field":"permitNotes","text":"Written approval for the plumbing plans shall be obtained prior to installation of the plumbing.","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Subsurface irrigation, using stormwater as the source","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382.pdf"},{"field":"allowedUses","text":"Surface or spray irrigation using stormwater and clearwater as the source","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382.pdf"},{"field":"potableRules","text":"Drinking, cooking, food processing, preparation and cleaning, pharmaceutical processing, and medical uses NR 811 and 812 approved sources","url":"https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/382.pdf"}],"confidence":"medium","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":"nonpotable_only","special":[]},{"code":"WY","name":"Wyoming","status":"not_addressed","limits":null,"permitRequired":null,"permitNotes":null,"allowedUses":[],"potableRules":null,"incentives":null,"waterRightsNote":"Wyoming is a prior-appropriation state: water is declared state property and use rights are acquired by beneficial use under State Engineer permits. No statute, rule, or State Engineer's Office statement was found that addresses whether capturing rooftop runoff in rain barrels or cisterns requires a water right, so its status under the appropriation system is unresolved in official sources.","citations":["Wyo. Stat. § 41-3-101 (nature of water rights and beneficial use) - general context only; no rainwater provision found in Title 41 or Title 35"],"plumbedSystemsRegulated":null,"agencyEncourages":null,"sources":[{"url":"https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title41.pdf","title":"Wyoming Statutes Title 41 - Water (full-text PDF)","section":"Full title searched; § 41-3-101"},{"url":"https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title35.pdf","title":"Wyoming Statutes Title 35 - Public Health and Safety (full-text PDF)","section":"Full title searched"},{"url":"http://seo.wyo.gov/home/faq","title":"Wyoming State Engineer's Office FAQ","section":"Searched; no rainwater content"},{"url":"https://www.uwyo.edu/barnbackyard/_files/documents/magazine/2013/summer/072013bbrainwaterharvest.pdf","title":"UW Extension Barnyards & Backyards: Rainwater harvesting (Summer 2013)","section":"Article (no legal guidance)"}],"quotes":[{"field":"waterRightsNote","text":"Water being always the property of the state, rights to its use shall attach to the land for irrigation, or to such other purposes or object for which acquired in accordance with the beneficial use","url":"https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title41.pdf"}],"confidence":"low","verifiedOn":"2026-09-27","cap":null,"potable":null,"special":[]}]}