Rainwater Harvesting: Hayward vs Sunol
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Hayward, CA and Sunol, CA?
Hayward and Sunol have similar restriction levels.
Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Rainwater harvesting is encouraged. Rain barrels up to 5,000 gallons are permit-exempt under California Rainwater Capture Act.
View full Hayward rules →Sunol, CA
Alameda County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Alameda County under CA Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750). Rain barrels under 5,000 gallons for landscape irrigation generally need no permit.
View full Sunol rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hayward | Sunol |
|---|---|---|
| No permit | Under 5,000 gal, outdoor use | - |
| Over 5,000 gal | Plumbing permit | - |
| Screen | 1/16 inch required | - |
| Rebates | EBMUD WaterSmart | EBMUD, ACWD offer |
| Overflow | To pervious area | - |
| State authorization | - | AB 1750 (2012) |
| Permit-free | - | Under 5,000 gallons surface |
| Large systems | - | Plumbing permit required |
| Use | - | Non-potable landscape |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hayward FAQ
Can I use rainwater inside my home?
Only with a permitted plumbing system that meets California Plumbing Code Chapter 17 treatment standards.
How big can my rain barrel be?
Up to 5,000 gallons without a permit for gravity-fed outdoor irrigation.
Sunol FAQ
Can I drink harvested rainwater?
Not without extensive treatment and permitting; rainwater harvesting in California is generally limited to non-potable uses like irrigation and toilet flushing.
Are rebates available?
Yes, both EBMUD and ACWD periodically offer rebates on rain barrels and larger cisterns; check their conservation pages for current programs.
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