Burbank, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- Status
- Legal statewide
- Permit
- Not required for residential barrels
- Incentives
- BWP may offer rebates
- State Law
- CA Rainwater Capture Act of 2012
Summary
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in California. No state or local permit required for residential rain barrels. Burbank Water and Power may offer rebates for rain barrel installation.
This bill would enact the Rainwater Capture Act of 2012, which would provide that use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit from the state board. ... This bill would additionally authorize a landscape contractor working within the classification of his or her license to enter into a prime contract for the construction of a rainwater capture system, as defined, if the system is used exclusively for landscape irrigation or as a water supply for a fountain, pond, or similar decorative water feature in a landscaping project. ... 10570. This part shall be known, and may be cited, as the Rainwater Capture Act of 2012.
Full Breakdown
Rainwater harvesting in Burbank is generally permitted for residential use including garden irrigation, lawn watering, and non-potable household purposes. California does not impose significant state-level restrictions on residential collection. Rain barrels and cisterns may be installed without special permits in most cases, though large systems may trigger building or plumbing permits. HOAs may have restrictions on visible rain barrel placement. Potable use of collected rainwater requires treatment systems that meet health department standards. Some cities offer rain barrel rebate programs.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Burbank
California rules heatmap·Compare Burbank to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle rainwater harvesting.