Elk Grove, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

California's Rainwater Capture Act (AB 1750, codified at Water Code §10574) authorizes property owners to capture rainwater from rooftops for non-potable onsite use without a water right. In Elk Grove, residential rain barrels and above-ground tanks up to about 360 gallons installed on gravity feed for outdoor irrigation are exempt from building permits when sited on stable ground and not connected to potable plumbing. Cisterns larger than that, underground tanks, and systems that use pumps or tie into a home's plumbing require plumbing and building permits and must include backflow prevention to protect the public water system. Cal Water and the Regional Water Authority periodically offer rebates for qualifying rain barrels. Rainwater may be used for lawn, garden, and ornamental irrigation, and toilet flushing or laundry if the system is properly permitted.