Little Elm, TX Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Rainwater harvesting is legal throughout Texas and specifically protected from HOA prohibition under Texas Property Code 202.007(c), which prevents property owners associations from banning outdoor water conservation measures including rainwater harvesting systems and composting devices. Little Elm does not require a permit for residential rain barrel installation. Texas Health and Safety Code 341.042 permits the use of harvested rainwater for potable purposes provided the system meets Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) minimum water quality standards for drinking water. For non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation, car washing, and toilet flushing, no water quality testing is required. The Texas Tax Code provides a sales tax exemption for rainwater harvesting equipment and supplies. In drought-prone Denton County, rainwater harvesting supplements the twice-weekly watering schedule and reduces demand on NTMWD supply. Large above-ground storage tanks exceeding typical residential size may require building permit review for structural and setback compliance. Underground cisterns require plumbing permits if connected to indoor fixtures.