Rainwater Harvesting: Downey vs Los Angeles
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Downey, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Downey and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in California. No permit required for residential rain barrels. AB 1750 (2012) protects the right to collect rainwater for landscaping and non-potable uses.
View full Downey rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Los Angeles. LADWP promotes rain barrels, cisterns, and bioswales through rebate programs and workshops. The LID ordinance (LAMC 64.72) requires new development to manage stormwater on-site, incentivizing rainwater capture infrastructure. CA law (AB 1750) explicitly allows residential rainwater collection.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | AB 1750 - legal to collect | AB 1750 permits residential collection |
| Permit | Not required for rain barrels | - |
| Use | Landscaping and non-potable | - |
| Rebates | Often available from water district | - |
| Legal Status | - | Fully legal, encouraged |
| Incentives | - | LADWP rebates for rain barrels/cisterns |
| LID Requirement | - | New development must manage stormwater on-site |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
Can I collect rainwater legally?
Yes. California allows residential rainwater harvesting without significant restrictions.
Do I need a permit for rain barrels?
Standard rain barrels typically do not need permits. Large cistern systems may require building permits.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I collect rainwater legally?
Yes. California allows residential rainwater harvesting without significant restrictions.
Do I need a permit for rain barrels?
Standard rain barrels typically do not need permits. Large cistern systems may require building permits.
Compare other topics
See how Downey and Los Angeles 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