Garland, TX Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- No City
- No city permit for typical above-ground barrels under 5,000 gal (outdoor use)
- Indoor-connected Systems
- Indoor-connected systems require TCEQ standards & licensed plumber
- Backflow Prevention
- Backflow prevention required if connected to public water
- Tanks Must
- Tanks must be covered to exclude mosquitoes
- Tx Property
- TX Property Code 202.007 limits HOA bans
Summary
Rainwater harvesting is encouraged in Garland and protected by Texas Property Code 202.007, which prevents HOAs from prohibiting properly screened rain barrels and cisterns.
Sec. 202.007. CERTAIN RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS PROHIBITED. (a) A property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from: (1) implementing measures promoting solid-waste composting of vegetation, including grass clippings, leaves, or brush, or leaving grass clippings uncollected on grass; (2) installing rain barrels or a rainwater harvesting system; (3) implementing efficient irrigation systems, including underground drip or other drip systems; or (4) using drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf. (b) A provision that violates Subsection (a) is void.
Full Breakdown
Garland encourages rainwater harvesting as part of its water conservation program. Residential rain barrels and cisterns are permitted on private property and do not require a city permit for typical above-ground installations under 5,000 gallons used solely for outdoor irrigation. Larger cisterns, those connected to indoor plumbing, or systems supplementing potable supply must comply with TCEQ rainwater harvesting standards (30 TAC Ch. 290), require a licensed plumber, and need backflow prevention to protect the public water supply. Tanks should be screened from street view or color-matched, kept covered to exclude mosquitoes, and meet setback requirements as accessory structures. Texas Property Code 202.007 prohibits HOAs from outright banning rain barrels but allows reasonable rules on size, placement, and screening. Rebates may be available through Garland Water Utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a 50-gallon rain barrel?
Can I plumb harvested rainwater into my house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Garland
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle rainwater harvesting.