Rainwater Harvesting: Downers Grove vs Naperville
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Downers Grove, IL and Naperville, IL?
Naperville has fewer restrictions than Downers Grove.
Downers Grove, IL
DuPage County
Illinois law authorizes residential rainwater harvesting and directs the state to publish a uniform Rainwater Harvesting Manual that governs system design statewide.
View full Downers Grove rules →Naperville, IL
DuPage County
Illinois permits residential rainwater harvesting. Naperville encourages stormwater management practices including rain barrels. No specific local ordinance restricts rain barrel use. The city promotes green infrastructure through its stormwater program.
View full Naperville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downers Grove | Naperville |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Act | 415 ILCS 56 | - |
| Plumbing Code | 225 ILCS 320 | - |
| Regulator | IDPH and CDB | - |
| Potable Use | Generally prohibited | - |
| Status | - | Permitted |
| Local Restriction | - | None |
| City Position | - | Encouraged |
| Large Cisterns | - | May need permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downers Grove FAQ
Can Illinois cities ban rainwater harvesting?
No. State law explicitly authorizes harvesting for non-potable use, and the Illinois Plumbing Code preempts conflicting municipal plumbing ordinances administered by IDPH.
Can harvested rainwater be used for drinking?
No. The Illinois Plumbing Code restricts harvested rainwater to non-potable uses such as irrigation and toilet flushing unless treated to drinking water standards.
Naperville FAQ
Can I use rain barrels in Naperville?
Yes. Illinois allows rainwater harvesting and Naperville has no local restriction. The city encourages rain barrels as part of its stormwater management and green infrastructure initiatives.
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel in Naperville?
Standard rain barrels do not require a permit. Large cistern installations may need building permits depending on size and structural requirements.
Compare other topics
See how Downers Grove and Naperville compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool