Rainwater Harvesting: Costa Mesa vs Garden Grove
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Garden Grove, CA?
Costa Mesa and Garden Grove have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
California law encourages rainwater harvesting, and Costa Mesa permits residents to collect and store rainwater for irrigation and non-potable uses without a permit for systems under 5,000 gallons. Rebates may be available through Mesa Water District.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Garden Grove, CA
Orange County
Garden Grove permits residential rainwater harvesting consistent with California law (Water Code Section 10574). Homeowners may collect rainwater from rooftops using rain barrels and cisterns without a permit for containers under 5,000 gallons. The Metropolitan Water District and city offer rebates for rain barrel installation as part of water conservation programs.
View full Garden Grove rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Garden Grove |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | AB 1750 Rainwater Capture Act | - |
| No Permit Needed | Systems under 5,000 gallons | - |
| Use | Irrigation and non-potable only | Outdoor irrigation only (untreated) |
| Mosquito Prevention | Containers must be covered | - |
| Rebates | Check Mesa Water District | - |
| Legal in California | - | Yes, under Water Code 10574 |
| Permit Threshold | - | Not needed under 5,000 gallons |
| Rebates Available | - | $35-$75 per rain barrel |
| Mosquito Screen | - | Required on all containers |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Is it legal to collect rainwater in Costa Mesa?
Yes. California's Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 allows residential rainwater collection without permits for systems under 5,000 gallons.
Are there rebates for rain barrels in Costa Mesa?
The Mesa Water District and Orange County Water District may offer rebates. Check their websites for current programs and eligibility.
Can I drink collected rainwater in Costa Mesa?
No, not without proper treatment and permitting. Residential rainwater harvesting is intended for irrigation and non-potable outdoor uses.
Garden Grove FAQ
Is it legal to collect rainwater in Garden Grove?
Yes. California Water Code Section 10574 allows residential rainwater harvesting statewide. Garden Grove residents may install rain barrels and cisterns for rooftop runoff collection without a water right permit.
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel in Garden Grove?
Containers under 5,000 gallons typically do not require a building permit. Larger cisterns may require permits and engineering review. All containers must comply with setback requirements and include mosquito screening.
Are there rebates for rain barrels in Garden Grove?
Yes. The Metropolitan Water District and Municipal Water District of Orange County offer rebates of $35 to $75 per rain barrel for qualifying installations. Check bewaterwise.com for current rebate programs and application details.
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