Rainwater harvesting is legal and unregulated in Franklin County for outdoor irrigation. Ohio has no rainwater-capture restrictions and Columbus Public Utilities encourages rain barrels through periodic subsidized-sale programs with Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District.
Unlike some western states, Ohio recognizes no prior-appropriation water rights over rainfall that falls on private property. Homeowners in Franklin County may install any capacity of rain barrel or cistern for outdoor irrigation and car washing without permit. Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District partners with the City of Columbus on annual rain-barrel sales at subsidized prices (typically 60 to 75 dollars for a 55-gallon barrel). Indoor potable use of harvested rainwater is governed by Ohio Department of Health private water system rules (OAC 3701-28), which require treatment and testing but are permitted. Larger cistern installations over 1,000 gallons may need plumbing inspection if plumbed into household systems. Stormwater credits may apply on Columbus utility bills for systems meeting Department of Public Utilities criteria.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Franklin County, OH
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See how Franklin County's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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