Rainwater harvesting in rain barrels and small cisterns is legal and encouraged in Mountain View. Larger systems and any potable use require permits.
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.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Mountain View, CA
Mountain View prohibits disturbing noise between 10pm and 7am weekdays and 10pm to 8am weekends, with enforcement by police and code enforcement officers.
Mountain View, CA
Amplified music from speakers, DJs, and live bands requires compliance with decibel limits and quiet hours; Shoreline Amphitheatre operates under a separate ...
Mountain View, CA
Industrial and commercial properties in Mountain View must comply with stationary noise source limits measured at property lines, with conditions enforced th...
Mountain View, CA
Mountain View Chapter 21 sets specific decibel thresholds varying by zoning district and time of day, measured at property lines with standardized equipment.
Mountain View, CA
Mountain View requires EV charging infrastructure in new construction under CALGreen Tier 2. Residential EV installations follow expedited permitting per AB ...
Mountain View, CA
RVs, trailers, and boats in Mountain View cannot park on public streets over 72 hours and face Large Vehicle Ordinance limits. Residential storage must be on...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle rainwater harvesting.
See how Mountain View's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.