Rainwater Harvesting: Berkeley vs San Leandro
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Berkeley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Berkeley and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Rain barrels under 5,000 gallons are allowed without permit in Berkeley. Larger cisterns and any potable connection require plumbing permits and state code compliance.
View full Berkeley rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in San Leandro. Rain barrels under 5,000 gallons require no permit. EBMUD offers rebates for qualifying systems.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Rain barrels | Under 5,000 gal - no permit | - |
| Larger cisterns | Plumbing permit required | - |
| Use | Outdoor/non-potable | - |
| EBMUD rebate | 35 dollars/barrel | - |
| Mosquito screens | Required | - |
| Legal | - | Yes (AB 1750) |
| Permit Trigger | - | Over 5,000 gal |
| Rebate | - | EBMUD WaterSmart |
| Mosquitoes | - | Must be sealed |
| Potable Use | - | Plumbing review |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can I connect rainwater to my toilet?
Yes, with a Berkeley plumbing permit and an approved treatment/backflow system per CPC Chapter 17. Purple-pipe labeling and dual plumbing are required to prevent cross-connection with potable supply.
Do I need to screen my rain barrel?
Yes. Alameda County Mosquito Abatement requires 1/16-inch mesh screens on all open water containers. Unscreened barrels can be cited as a public health nuisance.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I put a rain barrel on my San Leandro house?
Yes. Rain barrels up to 5,000 gallons used outdoors need no permit, and EBMUD offers rebates on approved models.
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
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