Fontana, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Rainwater harvesting in Fontana operates under a mix of state law and local permitting rules. The California Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750) allows any landowner to collect rainwater from their rooftop for non-potable on-site use (irrigation, toilet flushing with approved treatment, outdoor washing) without having to apply for a state water right, provided the water is captured from impervious surfaces on the parcel itself. For standard residential rain barrels - typically 50 to 100 gallon above-ground barrels fed by a downspout - Fontana does not require a permit; homeowners simply install a screened inlet to prevent mosquito breeding and an overflow directed away from foundations. Larger systems and any system connected to the interior plumbing of a home for toilet flushing, laundry pre-rinse, or pressurized irrigation must comply with the California Plumbing Code Chapter 17 (Non-Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems), which requires a plumbing permit from Fontana Building and Safety, backflow prevention on any connection to potable supply, and clear purple-pipe labeling of non-potable lines. Storage tanks above 5,000 gallons or that require structural supports typically trigger a building permit as well. Cisterns, pumps, and any electrical pumping equipment must meet the California Electrical Code. HOA rules may restrict visible tanks; state law Civil Code 4735 limits HOA bans on water-efficient landscaping but does not fully preempt HOA tank restrictions.