Rainwater Harvesting: Converse vs San Antonio
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Converse, TX and San Antonio, TX?
Converse and San Antonio have similar restriction levels.
Converse, TX
Bexar County
Converse residents can install rainwater collection systems. Texas Property Code 202.007 prohibits HOAs from banning rainwater harvesting, and SAWS offers rebates for qualifying systems in its service area.
View full Converse rules →San Antonio, TX
Bexar County
San Antonio actively encourages rainwater harvesting through SAWS (San Antonio Water System) rebate programs. SAWS offers $1.00 per gallon of storage up to $2,000 for residential customers who install at least 500 gallons of cistern capacity. Collected rainwater must be used for non-potable purposes like landscape irrigation. Texas state law (TX Tax Code § 151.355) exempts rainwater harvesting equipment from sales tax.
View full San Antonio rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Converse | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| HOA preemption | TX Prop Code 202.007 | - |
| Sales tax | Exempt under 151.355 | - |
| SAWS rebate | Available for qualifying | - |
| Outdoor use | Unregulated | - |
| Mosquito control | Covers required | - |
| SAWS Rebate | - | $1/gallon of storage, up to $2,000 |
| Minimum Size | - | 500 gallons of storage to qualify |
| Use | - | Non-potable only (landscape watering) |
| State Tax | - | Equipment exempt from TX sales tax |
| Workshops | - | Free quarterly cistern workshops from SAWS |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Converse FAQ
Can my HOA ban rain barrels in Converse?
No. Texas law prohibits outright bans. They may require screening or consistent appearance.
Do I need a permit for rain barrels?
Typically no for outdoor-only systems. Indoor potable connections require plumbing permits.
San Antonio FAQ
Does San Antonio offer incentives for rainwater collection?
Yes. SAWS provides a rebate of $1.00 per gallon of storage capacity, up to $2,000, for residential customers who install at least 500 gallons. SAWS also offers free quarterly workshops on cistern installation and use.
Can I use collected rainwater for drinking?
The SAWS rebate program requires that cistern water be used exclusively for non-potable purposes like landscape irrigation. Adjacent landscaping must survive on natural rainfall and stored water only — potable water backup is not permitted under the program.
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