Placer County, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Placer County does not prohibit residential rainwater harvesting, and there is no special county ordinance banning rain barrels or cisterns for typical homeowner use. State law governs most of the framework. The California Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750; Water Code Part 2.4, Section 10574) authorizes residential, commercial, and governmental landowners to install and operate rainwater capture systems and confirms that collecting rooftop rainwater for on-site, non-potable use does not require a state water-right permit. On the building side, California rules exempt small gravity rain-barrel and cistern systems with a maximum storage capacity of 360 gallons or less from a plumbing permit when the water is used for outdoor, non-potable irrigation and the components are on the building exterior. Larger systems, anything connected to indoor plumbing, or potable uses generally do require permits and inspection through the county's building department. The county encourages on-site stormwater retention and efficient irrigation, and rainwater can help meet the water-budget goals of its Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Always confirm setback, structural, and overflow drainage details for larger tanks with Placer County building staff before installing.