Oakland County, MI Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- Rebate per Barrel
- $125
- Minimum Size
- 50 gallons
- Max Barrels
- 2 per property
- Max Total Rebate
- $2,000 per property
- Site Assessment Fee
- $25 (non-refundable)
Summary
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Oakland County. The Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner's RainSmart Rebates program pays homeowners in southeast Oakland County up to $2,000 per property for rain barrels, rain gardens, and native trees. Rain barrels are reimbursed at $125 each (up to 2 per property) and must be at least 50 gallons.
Rain Barrels: Minimum 50 gallon/barrel; up to two barrels/property. Rebate: $125 per barrel. Rain Gardens: Minimum 75 Square feet; must consist of at least 75% native species. Rebate: $6 per square foot. Trees: Minimum 5 feet tall; must be on the eligible tree list; up to two trees per property. Rebate: $250 per tree.
Full Breakdown
RainSmart Rebates is a residential program of the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner (OCWRC) administered with the Clinton River Watershed Council (CRWC). Eligibility is limited to homeowners within the George W. Kuhn Drain Drainage District, which serves Berkley, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Clawson, Ferndale, Hazel Park, Huntington Woods, Madison Heights, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Royal Oak Township, Southfield, and Troy. Rain barrels must be a minimum of 50 gallons per barrel; up to two barrels per property are reimbursed at $125 each. A $25 non-refundable site assessment is required (conducted by CRWC). Participants must apply and receive approval before installation, then submit proof of installation to claim the rebate. An Equity Grant assists households unable to cover upfront costs. Michigan law does not restrict rainwater collection from rooftops for non-potable use. Outside the GWK district, rain barrels remain legal and many municipalities (Bloomfield Hills, Novi) actively promote them through their own sustainability programs.
Violations & Fines
RainSmart Rebates is a voluntary incentive program. There are no penalties for not participating. False-statement misuse of the rebate program may result in disqualification and recovery of paid funds. Municipalities generally do not require permits for residential rain barrels under 100 gallons used for non-potable garden irrigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for RainSmart Rebates?
Can I use harvested rain water for drinking?
How big does my rain barrel need to be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Oakland County
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