Rainwater harvesting is legal and actively encouraged in New Orleans through Sewerage and Water Board stormwater incentive programs. Rain barrels, cisterns, and bioswales reduce runoff into the city drainage system. Larger systems may qualify for Green Infrastructure grants under the Gentilly Resilience District program.
Louisiana has no state restrictions on rainwater collection, and New Orleans encourages it as part of the citywide effort to reduce subsidence and flooding caused by stormwater runoff overwhelming the pumped drainage system. Residential rain barrels (typically 50 to 100 gallons) require no permit and can be placed under downspouts to capture roof runoff for landscape irrigation. Larger cisterns above 660 gallons may need plumbing permits if they connect to indoor fixtures, but standalone outdoor cisterns generally do not. The water cannot be used for drinking without proper treatment. The city offers stormwater management incentives through the Office of Resilience and Sustainability and partners with the Urban Water Plan. Property owners installing qualifying green infrastructure, including bioswales, permeable pavement, and large cisterns, may apply for grants through the Gentilly Resilience District (a HUD-funded post-Katrina resilience initiative) or the Community Adaptation Program. Historic district properties (French Quarter, Garden District, Marigny, Treme) need HDLC or VCC review before installing visible cisterns or above-ground tanks, since these affect the historic streetscape. Discreet barrels in rear yards are typically approved without issue.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact New Orleans code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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