Rainwater Harvesting: Fresno vs Selma
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Fresno, CA and Selma, CA?
Fresno and Selma have similar restriction levels.
Fresno, CA
Fresno County
Rainwater harvesting from rooftops is legal in Fresno under California Water Code §10574 and AB 1750 (Rainwater Capture Act of 2012). No permit is required for simple rain barrels or cisterns used to irrigate landscaping. Storage tanks over 5,000 gallons or integrated with potable plumbing require Plumbing Code permits and backflow prevention.
View full Fresno rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Rainwater harvesting is legal in Selma under California's Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750). Residents may collect rainwater from rooftops for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation without a state water right permit, and no local permit is required for most residential rain barrel systems.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fresno | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Legal Authority | - | CA AB 1750 (2012) |
| Permit Required | - | No for systems under 5,000 gal |
| Allowed Uses | - | Irrigation, toilet flushing |
| Collection Limit | - | No state cap for personal use |
| Potable Use | - | Prohibited without treatment |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fresno FAQ
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel in Fresno?
No. Rain barrels and small cisterns used for outdoor irrigation do not need a permit under AB 1750. Larger tanks above 5,000 gallons or integration with household plumbing do require permits.
Can my HOA ban rain barrels in Fresno?
No. California Civil Code §714 protects reasonable water-efficient landscaping practices including rainwater capture. HOAs may regulate aesthetics and placement but cannot outright prohibit.
Selma FAQ
Is it legal to collect rainwater in Selma?
Yes. California's Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 explicitly authorizes rainwater collection from rooftops. No state water right permit is needed, and Selma does not impose additional local restrictions.
Do I need a permit for rain barrels in Selma?
No permit is needed for exterior rain barrel systems up to 5,000 gallons installed at ground level and used for outdoor non-spray irrigation. Larger or indoor-connected systems may require a building permit.
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