Moreno Valley, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- Requirement
- Rain barrels under 100 gallons need no permit (AB 1750)
- Requirement
- Cover barrels with screen to prevent mosquito breeding
- Requirement
- Cisterns plumbed to building require permit and backflow
- Requirement
- EMWD rebates may be available
- Requirement
- Not for drinking without treatment
Summary
Rainwater harvesting from rooftops for landscape irrigation is legal and encouraged in Moreno Valley under California's Rainwater Capture Act (AB 1750). Rain barrels under 100 gallons do not require a permit. Larger cisterns or systems connected to plumbing require a building permit and backflow prevention.
SEC. 2. Part 2.4 (commencing with Section 10570) is added to Division 6 of the Water Code, to read: PART 2.4. Rainwater Capture Act of 2012. 10570. This part shall be known, and may be cited, as the Rainwater Capture Act of 2012. [...] 10574. Use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit pursuant to Section 1201. [...] This bill would enact the 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. [...] This bill would additionally authorize a landscape contractor working within the classification of his or her license to enter into a prime contract for the construction of a rainwater capture system, as defined, if the system is used exclusively for landscape irrigation or as a water supply for a fountain, pond, or similar decorative water feature in a landscaping project.
Full Breakdown
The California Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750) authorizes residential and commercial rainwater harvesting from rooftops for non-potable uses including landscape irrigation. Moreno Valley and Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) encourage rainwater capture as part of regional water conservation strategy under the state's 20 percent by 2020 water use reduction goals and more recent efficiency standards in Water Code section 10608. Rain barrels up to 100 gallons can be installed without a permit in Moreno Valley, simply connect the barrel to a downspout, elevate it on a stable base, screen the top to prevent mosquito breeding (a Vector Control requirement), and use the water within 10 days or treat with mosquito dunks.
Larger cisterns, underground tanks, or systems connected to building plumbing require a building permit and a cross-connection prevention device to protect the public water supply per Health and Safety Code. Rainwater captured from rooftops cannot be used for drinking or cooking without proper treatment. EMWD periodically offers rebates on rain barrels and larger cisterns, check their current conservation rebate program. Rainwater harvesting is especially beneficial in Moreno Valley's semi-arid climate with only about 10 inches of annual rainfall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a 55-gallon rain barrel?
Can I use rainwater to water my vegetable garden?
Can I capture runoff from my driveway?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Moreno Valley
California rules heatmap·Compare Moreno Valley to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Riverside County handle rainwater harvesting.