Rainwater Harvesting: Simi Valley vs Ventura
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Simi Valley, CA and Ventura, CA?
Simi Valley and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in unincorporated Ventura County under California Water Code Section 10574. No permit is required for residential rain barrels, and the county's watershed protection programs support stormwater capture.
View full Simi Valley rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Ventura under California law. AB 1750 (2012) explicitly allows residential rainwater capture. Ventura Water and the City support rainwater collection as part of water conservation efforts. No permit is generally required for standard rain barrels.
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Simi Valley | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | No for standard rain barrels | - |
| Large Systems | Building permit for >5,000 gallons | May need building permits |
| Legal Authority | CA Water Code Section 10574 | - |
| Mosquito Prevention | Covered/screened containers required | - |
| Watershed District | (805) 654-2001 | - |
| State Law | - | CA AB 1750 — rainwater capture legal |
| Permits | - | Not required for standard rain barrels |
| Use | - | Landscape irrigation (not potable) |
| Incentives | - | Check Ventura Water for rebate programs |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Simi Valley FAQ
Is rainwater harvesting legal in Ventura County?
Yes. California Water Code Section 10574 explicitly authorizes collecting rainwater from rooftop surfaces. No permit is needed for standard residential rain barrels in unincorporated Ventura County.
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel?
Standard residential rain barrels do not require permits. Larger cistern systems exceeding 5,000 gallons may require a building permit to ensure structural safety and proper installation.
What can I use collected rainwater for?
Captured rainwater may be used for landscape irrigation, garden watering, car washing, and other non-potable outdoor uses. Using rainwater for indoor potable purposes requires treatment systems and health department approval.
Ventura FAQ
Can I collect rainwater in Ventura?
Yes. California AB 1750 explicitly allows residential rainwater capture. Standard rain barrels generally do not require permits.
Do I need a permit for rain barrels?
Standard rain barrels (50-100 gallons) generally do not require permits. Larger cisterns may need building permits depending on size and installation.
Are there rebates for rainwater harvesting?
Ventura Water may offer rebates for water conservation systems. Contact Customer Care at (805) 667-6500 for current programs.
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