Ohio Revised Code 3701.344 and Ohio Administrative Code 3701-28 expressly allow rainwater collection for private water systems, with health department approval required for potable use.
Ohio is one of the few states that explicitly regulates and authorizes rainwater as a private water system source. ORC 3701.344 directs the Director of Health to adopt rules, and OAC 3701-28-04 sets standards for cisterns and hauled water. Non-potable outdoor harvesting (rain barrels for gardens) needs no permit statewide. Local jurisdictions cannot prohibit rainwater harvesting because state law affirmatively allows it as a private water system.
Operating an unapproved potable cistern can trigger local health district orders and removal requirements.
See how Heath's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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