Rainwater Harvesting: Las Vegas vs Paradise
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Las Vegas, NV and Paradise, NV?
Las Vegas and Paradise 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 →Paradise, NV
Clark County
Rainwater harvesting for non-potable outdoor use at single-family homes is legal in Nevada under AB 138 (2017). Clark County allows roof-based collection; indoor or potable use still needs state review.
View full Paradise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Las Vegas | Paradise |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| State Law | - | NRS 533, AB 138 (2017) |
| Allowed Use | - | Roof runoff for landscape |
| Permit Threshold | - | Over 5,000 gal cistern |
| Potable Use | - | Extra state review |
| Annual Rainfall | - | About 4 inches |
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.
Paradise FAQ
Is it legal to use a rain barrel in unincorporated Clark County?
Yes. Since Nevada AB 138 (2017), single-family residents can capture roof runoff for outdoor landscape use without a state water right. No county permit is needed for typical rain barrels.
Can I plumb harvested rainwater into my house?
Not without separate Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health review and a permitted backflow prevention plan. AB 138 covers outdoor non-potable use only.
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