Houston does not restrict residential rainwater harvesting. Texas Property Code Sec. 202.007 protects homeowners' right to install rain barrels and rainwater harvesting systems, prohibiting HOAs from banning these devices.
Texas Property Code Section 202.007 prohibits property owners' associations from banning rainwater harvesting systems, rain barrels, efficient irrigation systems, or drought-resistant landscaping. HOAs may regulate the size, type, shielding, and materials used for rain barrels visible from the street, another lot, or common area, provided the restriction does not prohibit economically practical installation. Houston's municipal code does not impose additional restrictions on residential rainwater collection. Houston Water encourages water conservation, and rainwater collection is promoted as part of the city's sustainability efforts. No permit is required for residential rainwater harvesting barrels in Houston.
No violations for rainwater harvesting. HOAs that attempt to ban rainwater harvesting systems violate Texas Property Code Sec. 202.007.
Houston, TX
Smoke alarms in Houston dwellings are governed by Tex. Health & Safety Code Chapter 766 and the Houston Fire Code, which adopts the International Fire Code (...
Houston, TX
Houston has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on residential property. With no zoning and limited aesthetic c...
Houston, TX
Houston has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Inflatable size, location, lighting, and motor noise are governed by subdiv...
Houston, TX
Houston has no municipal ordinance regulating holiday light displays. With no zoning and limited aesthetic regulation, holiday lighting is governed by deed r...
Houston, TX
Houston requires building permits for built-in outdoor kitchens that include gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs. Standalone freestan...
Houston, TX
Houston has no specific ordinance prohibiting residential smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Smoke nuisance complaints may be addressed under Chapt...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle rainwater harvesting.
See how Houston's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.