New York, NY Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing code
- NYC Plumbing Code § PC 1301
- Permit
- Construction permit plus DOHMH review required
- Location limit
- Reuse water stays on same tax lot
- Signage
- Required at every nonpotable water outlet
- Rain barrels
- Exempt from Chapter 13; DEP rules apply
Summary
New York City lets homeowners use rain barrels without a permit, but larger on-site rainwater collection and reuse systems must be designed, permitted, and kept on the same tax lot under the NYC Plumbing Code.
The provisions of Chapter 13 shall govern the materials, design, construction and installation of systems for the collection, storage, treatment and conveyance of nonpotable water. ... Water from nonpotable systems shall be collected, stored, treated, conveyed and used on the same tax lot unless otherwise approved by the commissioner. The following water recycling uses are not addressed in this chapter: 1. Rainwater collected utilizing a retention system through rain barrels complying with the requirements of the Department of Environmental Protection;
Full Breakdown
NYC's Plumbing Code Chapter 13 covers any system that collects, stores, treats and conveys nonpotable water for reuse on site, including collected rainwater held in cisterns or tanks, not just rooftop runoff diverted to a garden hose. These reuse systems need a construction permit plus Department of Health and Mental Hygiene review, commissioning and operation sign-off. Reused water generally must stay on the same tax lot unless the commissioner approves otherwise, and every nonpotable outlet needs signage reading 'CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK.' Basic rain-barrel retention, though, is carved out of this chapter and left to separate Department of Environmental Protection rules.
Violations & Fines
Operating or altering a nonpotable water reuse system without both a construction permit and DOHMH review is unlawful under NYC Administrative Code § 28-201.1, giving DOB grounds for a stop-work order and violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use a rain barrel in my NYC backyard?
Do I need a permit to install a cistern for reuse?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New York
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