Newport Beach, CA Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)
Key Facts
- No Permit Needed
- Systems under 360 gallons
- Permitted Use
- Landscape irrigation only
- Mosquito Prevention
- Containers must be covered
- Rebates
- Available through local water districts
Summary
Newport Beach permits and encourages rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation under California state law. Residents may install rain barrels and cisterns without a permit for systems under 360 gallons. Larger collection systems may require building permits and compliance with the city's stormwater management standards.
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.
(e) “Stormwater” means temporary surface water runoff and drainage generated by immediately preceding storms. This definition shall be interpreted consistent with the definition of “stormwater” in Section 122.26 of Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations. 10574. Use of rainwater collected from rooftops does not require a water right permit pursuant to Section 1201.
Full Breakdown
Under California AB 1750, Newport Beach residents have the right to install rainwater capture systems on residential property. Rain barrels and containers up to 360 gallons total capacity do not require a building permit when connected to a downspout and used for landscape irrigation. Systems exceeding 360 gallons require a building permit and must comply with structural, plumbing, and drainage code requirements. All rainwater harvesting systems must be covered to prevent mosquito breeding and must not create standing water hazards. Collected water may be used for outdoor irrigation but is not approved for potable use without treatment. The Irvine Ranch Water District and Mesa Water District, which serve Newport Beach, offer occasional rebates for rain barrel purchases as part of water conservation programs. Newport Beach's Water Quality and Coastal Development standards encourage low-impact development features including rainwater capture as part of new construction and major remodels.
Violations & Fines
Systems under 360 gallons have no permit requirement and face no violations when properly installed. Larger unpermitted systems may receive a correction notice requiring a permit application. Standing water from improperly maintained barrels may trigger vector control enforcement with fines starting at $100.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a rain barrel in Newport Beach?
Can I use collected rainwater for drinking in Newport Beach?
Are there rebates for rain barrels in Newport Beach?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Newport Beach
California rules heatmap·Compare Newport Beach to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Rainwater Harvesting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Orange County handle rainwater harvesting.