Garfield vs Hackensack
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?
Garfield and Hackensack have similar restriction levels.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Rainwater harvesting is legal throughout Bergen County and New Jersey. There is no state or county prohibition on residential rain barrels. NJDEP encourages capture as a stormwater best management practice under NJAC 7:8.
View full Garfield rules →Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Hackensack does not prohibit residential rainwater harvesting. Rain barrels and small cisterns are encouraged for landscape irrigation under New Jersey water conservation policy and stormwater management goals.
View full Hackensack rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Hackensack |
|---|---|---|
| Rain barrels | Legal statewide | Allowed without permit |
| State guidance | NJAC 7:8 stormwater rules | - |
| Plumbing rule | NJAC 5:23-3.15 cross-connection | - |
| County permit | Not required for barrels | - |
| Encouraged BMP | Yes by NJDEP | - |
| Plumbed cisterns | - | Building permit required |
| Use | - | Non-potable irrigation |
| Backflow | - | Required for cross-connections |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garfield FAQ
Can I install a rain barrel in Bergen County?
Yes. New Jersey and Bergen County both allow residential rain barrels without permits. NJDEP encourages rainwater harvesting as a stormwater best management practice under its NJAC 7:8 rules.
Are there limits on cistern size?
Simple residential rain barrels have no size cap, but cisterns connected to indoor plumbing must follow the NJ Plumbing Code at NJAC 5:23-3.15, which requires backflow protection to prevent cross-connection with potable water.
Hackensack FAQ
Can I install rain barrels in Hackensack?
Yes. Rain barrels for outdoor irrigation are allowed and encouraged as a stormwater best management practice. No municipal permit is required for typical residential setups.
Can I use harvested rainwater for drinking?
No. Harvested rainwater is intended for non-potable uses like landscape watering. Potable use requires advanced treatment and is not recommended.
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