Rainwater Harvesting: Camarillo vs Ojai
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ojai, CA?
Camarillo and Ojai have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Camarillo under California Water Code Section 10574. Residents may collect rainwater from rooftops for irrigation without a permit.
View full Camarillo rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai enthusiastically supports rainwater harvesting as a supplement to the Casitas Municipal Water District supply. Many residents already use rain barrels and cisterns for landscape irrigation.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Authority | CA Water Code Section 10574 | - |
| Permit Threshold | 5,000 gallons (larger needs permit) | - |
| Permitted Use | Landscape irrigation (non-potable) | - |
| Rebates | Periodically available from water agencies | - |
| Mosquito Prevention | Covered storage required | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Is rainwater harvesting legal in Camarillo?
Yes. California Water Code Section 10574 allows property owners to collect rainwater from rooftops. No permit is needed for systems under 5,000 gallons.
Can I use rainwater for drinking?
No. Collected rainwater may only be used for non-potable purposes such as landscape irrigation. Cross-connection to potable systems is illegal.
Are there rebates for rain barrels?
Regional water agencies periodically offer rain barrel rebates or giveaways. Contact Camrosa Water District at (805) 388-0226 for current programs.
Ojai FAQ
Is rainwater harvesting popular in Ojai?
Yes, very. Many Ojai residents collect rainwater for landscape irrigation. The practice is legal under AB 1750 and supported by the community's environmental ethic.
Does Casitas MWD offer rain barrel rebates?
Check with Casitas Municipal Water District for current rebate programs. Some water agencies offer free or discounted rain barrels at community events.
Do I need to account for Thomas Fire burn scar runoff?
If your property is in or near a burn scar area, increased runoff intensity may require larger collection systems or overflow management. Consult a professional for properties affected by the Thomas Fire.
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