Larimer County, CO Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- Barrels allowed
- Two maximum
- Combined capacity
- 110 gallons or less
- Eligible homes
- Single-family or up to 4 units
- Permitted use
- Outdoor irrigation, same property
- Governing statute
- C.R.S. § 37-96.5-103
Summary
Colorado law lets a single-family or small multi-family household collect rooftop rainwater in up to two rain barrels holding no more than 110 gallons combined, for outdoor use on that property. Larimer County adds no extra permit.
No more than two rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of one hundred ten gallons or less are utilized; precipitation is collected from the rooftop of a building that is used primarily as a single-family residence or a multi-family residence with four or fewer units.
Full Breakdown
Rainwater collection is tightly limited by Colorado water law, but C.R.S. § 37-96.5-103 (House Bill 16-1005) created a homeowner exception. Residents of a single-family home, or a multi-family building with four or fewer units, may capture rooftop precipitation in no more than two rain barrels totaling 110 gallons or less, and use it outdoors for lawns and gardens on the same property. Collected rainwater may not be used for drinking or indoor household purposes. No permit is required within these limits, and Larimer County imposes no additional local restriction.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding two barrels, 110 gallons, or diverting more than the statute allows can raise water-rights compliance issues enforced by the Colorado Division of Water Resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I legally collect rainwater in Larimer County?
Do I need a permit for rain barrels?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Larimer County
Compare Larimer County to another location·View the Colorado landscaping rules overview
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