Albuquerque encourages rainwater harvesting under the ABQ Water Authority rebate program, allowing residents to collect roof runoff without state water rights issues in most cases.
Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority (ABCWUA) actively promotes rainwater harvesting as part of its 200 GPCD conservation program. Residents can install cisterns, rain barrels, and passive harvesting earthworks (berms, swales, basins) without state water rights permits as long as water is used on-site. The Water Authority offers rebates up to $150 for rain barrels (minimum 50 gallons) and up to $1,500 for cisterns (minimum 1,000 gallons). Passive harvesting features qualify for separate xeriscape rebates. State law NMSA 72-1-1 recognizes rainwater as the property owner's when captured on-site. All collection systems must prevent mosquito breeding with tight-fitting lids and overflow must be directed to vegetated areas, not neighbor properties. Potable use requires a permit and treatment.
Non-compliant overflow onto neighbor property is a nuisance violation with $100-$500 fines. Mosquito-breeding containers trigger Environmental Health abatement orders.
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See how Albuquerque's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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