Citrus Heights vs Galt
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Citrus Heights, CA and Galt, CA?
Citrus Heights and Galt have similar restriction levels.
Citrus Heights, CA
Sacramento County
Rainwater harvesting is legal statewide under the California Rainwater Capture Act, and Citrus Heights allows rain barrels and cisterns without a permit under 5000 gallons.
View full Citrus Heights rules →Galt, CA
Sacramento County
Rainwater collection is encouraged in Galt. California law allows rooftop rainwater capture without a water right permit, and typical residential rain barrels do not require a building permit. Larger cisterns or potable reuse systems need plumbing review.
View full Galt rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Citrus Heights | Galt |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | Water Code 10574 | - |
| Permit Threshold | Under 5000 gallons exempt | - |
| Uses | Non-potable only | - |
| Screening | Mosquito screens required | - |
| Rebates | Regional Water Authority | - |
| State law | - | AB 1750 Rainwater Capture Act |
| Rain barrels | - | No permit |
| Indoor reuse | - | Plumbing permit required |
| Potable use | - | Not allowed residential |
| Mosquito screen | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Citrus Heights FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 55 gallon rain barrel?
No. Small barrels collecting roof runoff for landscaping do not require a building permit.
Can I drink harvested rainwater?
No. Under state law harvested rainwater is for non-potable uses like irrigation only.
Galt FAQ
How big a rain barrel can I install without a permit?
Galt generally follows state guidance that connected barrels under roughly 100 gallons and not integrated with the potable plumbing do not require a permit.
Can I hook rainwater into my toilet tank?
Only with a plumbing permit, approved filtration, and a proper air gap or listed backflow device to prevent cross-connection with City water.
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