Camarillo, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- Legal Authority
- CA Water Code Section 10574
- Permit Threshold
- 5,000 gallons (larger needs permit)
- Permitted Use
- Landscape irrigation (non-potable)
- Rebates
- Periodically available from water agencies
- Mosquito Prevention
- Covered storage required
Summary
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Camarillo under California Water Code Section 10574. Residents may collect rainwater from rooftops for irrigation without a permit.
Solely for the purposes of this part, and unless the context otherwise requires, the following definitions govern the construction of this part:
(a) "Developed or developing lands" means lands that have one or more of the characteristics described in subparagraphs (A) to (C), inclusive, of paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 56375.3 of the Government Code.
(b) "Rain barrel system" is a type of rainwater capture system that does not use electricity or a water pump and is not connected to or reliant on a potable water system.
(c) "Rainwater" means precipitation on any public or private parcel that has not entered an offsite storm drain system or channel, a flood control channel, or any other stream channel, and has not previously been put to beneficial use.
(d) "Rainwater capture system" means a facility designed to capture, retain, and store rainwater flowing off a building rooftop for subsequent onsite use.
(e) "Stormwater" means temporary surface water runoff and drainage generated by immediately preceding storms. This definition shall be interpreted consistent with the definition of "stormwater" in Section 122.26 of Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit pursuant to Section 1201.
Full Breakdown
California Water Code Section 10574 establishes the right of property owners to capture rainwater from rooftops for later use. Camarillo residents may install rain barrels and cisterns without a permit for systems under 5,000 gallons. Larger systems may require a building permit for structural support. Collected water may be used for landscape irrigation but not for potable purposes. The city and regional water agencies periodically offer rebates or free rain barrels during conservation events. Rainwater harvesting supports compliance with MWELO requirements and reduces stormwater runoff.
Violations & Fines
No penalties for rainwater harvesting itself. Systems over 5,000 gallons installed without a building permit: $250 correction notice. Cross-connection of rainwater to potable systems: $500-$1,000 and mandatory disconnection. Improperly stored water creating mosquito habitat: county vector control involvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rainwater harvesting legal in Camarillo?
Can I use rainwater for drinking?
Are there rebates for rain barrels?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Camarillo
California rules heatmap·Compare Camarillo to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Ventura County handle rainwater harvesting.