Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in San Diego County. California law (AB 1750) explicitly allows residential rainwater capture. No county permit is required for rain barrels. The County offers rebates for rain barrel installations through water conservation programs.
California AB 1750 (2012) explicitly permits residential rainwater capture systems statewide. San Diego County encourages rainwater harvesting as part of water conservation efforts. Small rain barrel systems (typically under 5,000 gallons) do not require a building permit. Larger cistern systems may require permits for structural and plumbing connections. The County's Stormwater Standards Manual supports on-site rainwater retention as a best management practice. Some local water districts offer rebates for rain barrel and cistern installation. Captured rainwater may be used for landscape irrigation and other non-potable purposes. Connections to indoor plumbing for non-potable use require permits and backflow prevention.
No penalties for rainwater harvesting. Building code violations may apply for large unpermitted cisterns or improper plumbing connections.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle rainwater harvesting.
See how Elfin Forest's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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