Lodi, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- Local ban
- None
- State authorization
- Water Code §10574 (AB 1750, 2012)
- Permit-exempt size
- Under 5,000 gallons (typical rain barrel)
- Allowed uses
- Non-potable, non-spray landscape irrigation
Summary
Lodi has no ordinance prohibiting residential rainwater harvesting. California's Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750) and Water Code section 10574 authorize property owners to collect rooftop rainwater for non-potable use without a state water-right permit, and the California Plumbing Code exempts most simple rain barrels from building-permit requirements.
Rainwater Capture Act of 2012, which would provide that use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit from the state board. (2) Existing law, the Contractors’ State License Law, creates the Contractors’ State License Board within the Department of Consumer Affairs and provides for the licensing and regulation of contractors. Existing law authorizes a landscape contractor working within the classification of his or her license to enter into a prime contract for the construction of a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub, an outdoor cooking center, or an outdoor fireplace, if certain conditions are met. Under existing law, a violation of these provisions and related provisions of existing law is grounds for disciplinary action.
Full Breakdown
There is no local prohibition against rainwater harvesting in the Lodi Municipal Code. State law - the Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750), codified at Water Code section 10574 - expressly allows owners and operators of land to install, maintain, and operate rain barrels and rainwater capture systems for landscape irrigation and other non-potable uses on the property where the rainwater is collected, without obtaining a water-right permit from the State Water Resources Control Board. Under the California Plumbing Code (Chapter 17), rain barrels and small cisterns generally do not require a plumbing permit when capacity is under 5,000 gallons, the system is on a stable foundation, the height-to-width ratio is less than 2:1, water is used only for non-spray irrigation, and there is no connection to potable supply. Systems plumbed into the building or used for indoor non-potable purposes (toilet flushing, laundry) require permits through the Lodi Community Development Department.
Violations & Fines
No local fine schedule applies - rainwater harvesting is legal. If a larger cistern or building-integrated system is installed without the required plumbing/building permit, the City can issue a stop-work order and double permit fees under standard Building Division enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rainwater collection legal in Lodi?
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lodi
California rules heatmap·Compare Lodi to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Joaquin County handle rainwater harvesting.