Rainwater Harvesting: Salt Lake City vs West Valley City
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Salt Lake City, UT and West Valley City, UT?
West Valley City has fewer restrictions than Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake County
Rainwater harvesting is legal in Salt Lake City under Utah Code §73-3-1.5, but users must register with the Utah Division of Water Rights. Limited to 2,500 gallons with registration; 200 gallons without.
View full Salt Lake City rules →West Valley City, UT
Salt Lake County
Rainwater harvesting is legal in West Valley City under Utah Code §73-3-1.5. Residents may collect up to 2,500 gallons in registered storage (or 200 gallons without registration) without a water right. No additional city permits required.
View full West Valley City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Salt Lake City | West Valley City |
|---|---|---|
| No Registration | Up to 200 gallons (2 containers) | Up to 200 gallons |
| With Registration | Up to 2,500 gallons | Up to 2,500 gallons |
| State Law | Utah Code §73-3-1.5 | Utah Code §73-3-1.5 |
| Register With | UT Division of Water Rights (free) | - |
| Use | Same parcel only | - |
| Registration Cost | - | Free (Division of Water Rights) |
| City Permit | - | None required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Salt Lake City FAQ
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel?
No permit for up to 200 gallons (2 barrels max 100 gal each). Register free with Utah Division of Water Rights to collect up to 2,500 gallons.
Can I drink collected rainwater?
Not recommended and not permitted for potable use. Collected water is for outdoor/landscape use on the parcel of collection.
West Valley City FAQ
Do I need to register my rain barrel in West Valley City?
Only if total storage exceeds 200 gallons. Registration is free at waterrights.utah.gov and covers up to 2,500 gallons total.
Can I use harvested rainwater to irrigate my lawn?
Yes, on the parcel where it was collected. Utah law permits use for beneficial purposes including irrigation, provided you stay within the volume limits.
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