Mountain View, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- AB 1750 allows capture
- No permit
- Barrels for outdoor use
- Permit
- Pumped or plumbed systems
- Cross-connection
- Prohibited
- Rebates
- Via Valley Water
Summary
Rainwater harvesting in rain barrels and small cisterns is legal and encouraged in Mountain View. Larger systems and any potable use require permits.
10573. Solely for the purposes of this part, and unless the context otherwise requires, the following definitions govern the construction of this part:
(a) "Developed or developing lands" means lands that have one or more of the characteristics described in subparagraphs (A) to (C), inclusive, of paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 56375.3 of the Government Code.
(b) "Rain barrel system" is a type of rainwater capture system that does not use electricity or a water pump and is not connected to or reliant on a potable water system.
(c) "Rainwater" means precipitation on any public or private parcel that has not entered an offsite storm drain system or channel, a flood control channel, or any other stream channel, and has not previously been put to beneficial use.
(d) "Rainwater capture system" means a facility designed to capture, retain, and store rainwater flowing off a building rooftop for subsequent onsite use. 10574. Use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit pursuant to Section 1201.
Full Breakdown
California Assembly Bill 1750, the Rainwater Capture Act, allows residents to collect rainwater from rooftops for non-potable outdoor use without a water-rights permit. Mountain View follows the California Plumbing Code Chapter 17 and Appendix L for rainwater systems. Rain barrels up to 5,000 gallons total per parcel generally do not require a building permit when used for outdoor irrigation, while larger systems, pumped systems, or any indoor connection require a plumbing permit. Cross-connection with the potable supply is strictly prohibited. Valley Water, the Santa Clara Valley Water District, and Mountain View periodically offer rain barrel rebates. Barrels must have a tight-fitting lid, screened inlet, and be elevated and stable to prevent tip-over and mosquito breeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a 55-gallon rain barrel?
Can I use rainwater in my home?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mountain View
California rules heatmap·Compare Mountain View to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle rainwater harvesting.