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.
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.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Moreno Valley code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle rainwater harvesting.
See how Moreno Valley's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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