Rainwater Harvesting: Mount Vernon vs Yonkers
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Mount Vernon, NY and Yonkers, NY?
Mount Vernon and Yonkers have similar restriction levels.
Mount Vernon, NY
Westchester County
Rainwater harvesting is legal in Mount Vernon and throughout New York State. No permit required for residential rain barrels used for landscape irrigation.
View full Mount Vernon rules →Yonkers, NY
Westchester County
Rainwater harvesting is legal in NY State and in Yonkers. No permit needed for residential rain barrels used for outdoor irrigation.
View full Yonkers rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mount Vernon | Yonkers |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Allowed | - |
| Permit | None for barrels | - |
| Indoor Plumbing | Plumbing code applies | Permit + backflow |
| Cornell Extension | Offers rain barrels | - |
| Rain Barrels | - | Legal, no permit |
| State Stance | - | Encouraged |
| Potable Use | - | DOH approval required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mount Vernon FAQ
Can I install a rain barrel in Mount Vernon?
Yes. No permit is required for a standard residential rain barrel used for outdoor irrigation.
Can I connect a rainwater cistern to indoor plumbing in Mount Vernon?
Only with a permit. Any cistern tied to indoor plumbing must meet NY State Plumbing Code requirements for non-potable reuse.
Where can Mount Vernon residents get discounted rain barrels?
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Westchester periodically offers subsidized rain barrel sales — check their seasonal events for availability.
Yonkers FAQ
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel?
No. Residential rain barrels for outdoor watering are legal in Yonkers without a permit.
Can I plumb rainwater into my Yonkers house?
Only with a permit. Large cisterns or systems plumbed into household fixtures must meet NYS Plumbing Code backflow-prevention rules and require a Yonkers building permit.
Can I drink harvested rainwater in Yonkers?
No. Potable reuse of rainwater is not permitted without NYS Department of Health approval. Residential rain barrels are limited to non-potable outdoor uses like irrigation.
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