Folsom, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- AB 1750 (Wat §10574)
- Permit
- None under 5,000 gal
- Use
- Landscape irrigation
- Potable Use
- Plumbing permit req.
- Mosquitoes
- Must screen (MVCD)
Summary
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Folsom under the California Rainwater Capture Act (AB 1750). Rain barrels and cisterns collecting roof runoff for landscape irrigation are permit-exempt up to 5,000 gallons. Folsom Utilities periodically offers rain barrel rebate programs through Regional Water Authority partnerships.
PART 2.4. Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 10570. This part shall be known, and may be cited, as the Rainwater Capture Act of 2012. 10573. 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. 10574. Use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit pursuant to Section 1201.
Full Breakdown
The California Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750, Wat. Code §10574) authorizes residential rainwater harvesting from rooftops for non-potable landscape uses without a water rights permit. Folsom residents may install rain barrels (typically 50-80 gallons) and larger cisterns up to 5,000 gallons capacity without a building permit when used for outdoor irrigation only. Larger systems or any potable/indoor use triggers plumbing permit requirements under the CA Plumbing Code (Chapter 17) and health department review. Installation best practices: secure barrels to prevent tipping, use screened inlets to exclude mosquitoes (important under Sac-Yolo MVCD rules), place overflow away from structures and neighbor properties, and divert first-flush to remove roof debris. Systems connected to an existing potable supply require cross-connection/backflow protection per Folsom Utilities standards. HOAs cannot prohibit rain barrels on aesthetic grounds if they are reasonably screened (AB 2104 solar/water efficiency protections). Harvested rainwater qualifies as non-potable supply under Title 22 and can offset drought-stage restrictions on traditional irrigation.
Violations & Fines
No violation for compliant residential systems under 5,000 gallons and outdoor use. Mosquito-breeding uncovered containers: Sac-Yolo MVCD enforcement for stagnant water nuisances. Illegal cross-connection to potable supply: plumbing code violation + potential contamination liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel in Folsom?
Can I use harvested rainwater during drought restrictions?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Folsom
California rules heatmap·Compare Folsom to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Sacramento County handle rainwater harvesting.