Rainwater Harvesting: Bonsall vs San Diego
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Bonsall, CA and San Diego, CA?
Bonsall and San Diego have similar restriction levels.
Bonsall, CA
San Diego County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in San Diego County. California law (AB 1750) explicitly allows residential rainwater capture. No county permit is required for rain barrels. The County offers rebates for rain barrel installations through water conservation programs.
View full Bonsall rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
Rainwater harvesting is encouraged in San Diego through rebate programs and stormwater management goals. Rain barrels and cisterns under 5,000 gallons do not require a permit. Systems over 5,000 gallons require a building permit. Collected rainwater may not be used as drinking water per state and local regulations. The County's Waterscape Rebate Program offers enhanced rebates for rain gardens and rain-saving containers.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bonsall | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal and encouraged | - |
| State Law | AB 1750 — rainwater capture permitted | - |
| Small Systems | No permit for rain barrels | - |
| Large Systems | May need building permit | - |
| Rebates | Available through water districts | Waterscape Rebate Program for rain gardens and barrels |
| Permit Threshold | - | Over 5,000 gallons requires permit |
| Drinking Water | - | Rainwater prohibited as potable water |
| Capacity | - | ~600 gallons per 1 inch rain on 1,000 sq ft roof |
| Downspout Redirects | - | Encouraged to reduce stormwater runoff |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bonsall FAQ
Is rainwater harvesting legal in San Diego County?
Yes. California law (AB 1750) explicitly permits residential rainwater capture. The County encourages it as a water conservation measure.
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel?
No. Small rain barrel systems do not require a county building permit. Larger cistern systems or systems connected to plumbing may require permits.
Can I get a rebate for a rain barrel?
Some local water districts in San Diego County offer rebates for rain barrel and cistern installations. Check with your specific water provider for current programs.
San Diego FAQ
Do I need a permit for rain barrels?
No permit is needed for rainwater collection systems under 5,000 gallons. Systems exceeding 5,000 gallons require a building permit.
Are there rebates for rainwater harvesting?
Yes. The San Diego County Waterscape Rebate Program offers rebates for rain gardens and rain-saving containers for both residential and commercial properties.
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