Las Vegas vs North Las Vegas
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Las Vegas, NV and North Las Vegas, NV?
Las Vegas and North Las Vegas have similar restriction levels.
Las Vegas, NV
Clark County
Nevada AB 138 (2017) legalized residential rainwater harvesting for non-potable outdoor uses at single-family homes, reversing the state's prior restriction. Las Vegas homeowners may collect rainwater for landscape irrigation without a permit or water right, using rooftop collection systems.
View full Las Vegas rules →North Las Vegas, NV
Clark County
Rainwater harvesting for single-family residential outdoor use is permitted in North Las Vegas under NRS 533.027, which allows rooftop collection without a water right. Arid climate makes yields modest.
View full North Las Vegas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Las Vegas | North Las Vegas |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| State Law | - | NRS 533.027 allows residential |
| Allowed Use | - | Non-potable outdoor |
| NLV Annual Rain | - | About 4 inches |
| Mosquito | - | Screen required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Las Vegas FAQ
Can I water my edible garden with rainwater?
Yes for soil-level drip irrigation. Direct food-surface contact is discouraged but not expressly prohibited.
Is a first-flush diverter required?
Not by code, but it is best practice in dusty Mojave conditions where rooftop sediment accumulates between infrequent rain events.
North Las Vegas FAQ
Can I install a 500-gallon cistern in my Aliante backyard?
Yes, residential rainwater capture is legal under NRS 533.027. Check HOA CCRs for aesthetic restrictions and screen the tank against mosquitoes and algae growth.
Does captured rainwater count toward my SNWA allocation?
No. Harvested rainwater is not counted against your Las Vegas Valley Water District usage. It is bonus water, which is why SNWA broadly supports the practice.
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