Weld County, CO Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- C.R.S. 37-96.5-103 (HB16-1005)
- Max barrels
- Two rain barrels
- Max capacity
- 110 gallons combined
- Allowed use
- Outdoor irrigation only
- Permit
- None required
Summary
Colorado law lets residents collect rooftop rainwater in up to two rain barrels holding a combined 110 gallons or less, for outdoor use on the same single-family or small multi-family property. No permit is needed; drinking or indoor use is prohibited.
No more than two rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of one hundred ten gallons or less... A person shall not use precipitation collected under this article for drinking water or indoor household purposes.
Full Breakdown
Rainwater collection is governed statewide by C.R.S. 37-96.5-103 (from House Bill 16-1005), which applies across Weld County. Residents of a single-family home or a multi-family building of four or fewer units may capture rooftop precipitation in no more than two rain barrels with a combined capacity of 110 gallons. The water must be used outdoors (lawns, gardens) on the property where it was collected and may not be used for drinking or indoor household purposes. No permit or state approval is required. A homeowners' association cannot ban rain barrels but may set reasonable rules on their placement and appearance.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the two-barrel / 110-gallon limit, or using collected rainwater for drinking or indoor use, falls outside the statutory allowance and is subject to state water-rights enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rainwater collection legal in Weld County?
Can I drink collected rainwater?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Weld County
Compare Weld County to another location·View the Colorado landscaping rules overview
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