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Washoe County, NV Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Legal status
Allowed statewide
Governing law
NRS 533.027 (AB 138)
Source allowed
Single-family rooftop only
Use
Nonpotable domestic (irrigation)
County rule
None added

Summary

Rainwater harvesting is legal statewide. Nevada NRS 533.027 allows de minimis collection of precipitation from the rooftop of a single-family dwelling for nonpotable domestic use without a water-right permit. Washoe County adds no separate restriction.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Washoe County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

de minimus collection of precipitation from the rooftop of a single-family dwelling for nonpotable domestic use

View official code

Full Breakdown

Since 2017 (AB 138), Nevada law expressly permits capturing rooftop rain. NRS 533.027 authorizes 'de minimus collection of precipitation from the rooftop of a single-family dwelling for nonpotable domestic use' without a water permit. The water must be non-potable domestic use (landscape irrigation, cleaning), collected only from a single-family rooftop (not driveways or businesses), and must not impair existing water rights. Practical guidance from UNR Extension notes reasonable system sizing. Washoe County imposes no additional rain-harvesting ordinance, so the state exemption controls in the unincorporated area.

Violations & Fines

Staying within the NRS 533.027 rooftop, single-family, nonpotable de minimis exemption avoids water-right permitting; exceeding it can require a state water right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to collect rainwater in Washoe County?
Yes. Nevada NRS 533.027 permits de minimis rooftop collection from a single-family dwelling for nonpotable use, no permit needed. The county adds no restriction.
Can I drink or cook with harvested rainwater?
No. The statute limits it to nonpotable domestic use such as watering your landscape or cleaning. It is not approved for drinking, cooking or bathing.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Washoe County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsWeed OrdinancesSome RestrictionsTree TrimmingSome RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome Restrictions

All Washoe County rules

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