Lexington, KY Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Kentucky does not restrict rainwater harvesting for residential or agricultural use. Property owners may install rain barrels, cisterns, and other catchment systems to collect roof runoff for irrigation, car washing, and livestock watering. LFUCG actively encourages rainwater harvesting through its Stormwater Quality Management program, which addresses Clean Water Act MS4 permit obligations. The LFUCG Stormwater Quality Projects Incentive Grant Program has historically offered rebates for rain gardens, rain barrels, and pervious surfaces that reduce runoff to Town Branch, Cane Run, and the Kentucky River watershed. Large cisterns over 100 gallons may require a building permit depending on location and construction. Any cistern or rain barrel connected to an indoor plumbing system for toilet flushing or laundry must be installed by a licensed plumber, include backflow prevention and clear labeling of non-potable lines, and meet Kentucky State Plumbing Code. Rural Service Area horse farms often use large cisterns for livestock watering, which is permitted without a state permit for reasonable agricultural use.