Florida law and Orlando code permit rainwater harvesting without restriction, and the city encourages it as part of stormwater reduction and water conservation. Rain barrels and small cisterns require no permit. Larger cisterns over 250 gallons connected to building plumbing require plumbing permits and backflow prevention. Harvested rainwater can be used for landscape irrigation freely; potable use requires additional treatment and permits.
Florida is one of the most rain-rich states and rainwater harvesting is actively encouraged. SJRWMD and Orange County Extension partner with Orlando to distribute discounted rain barrels through periodic workshops. No state or city law restricts collection of rainfall on private property. Small rain barrels (typically 50 to 100 gallons) installed at downspouts require no permit. Larger cisterns or those plumbed into structures need building and plumbing permits, mosquito-proof covers, overflow management to avoid flooding neighbors, and backflow prevention if connected to potable supply systems. Harvested water used for landscape irrigation, vehicle washing, and toilet flushing is unrestricted. Potable use requires NSF-certified treatment and is regulated by the Florida Department of Health.
Unpermitted large cistern installation: code enforcement violation. Cross-connection to potable supply without backflow prevention: serious health code violation with mandatory disconnection. Mosquito breeding from uncovered storage: nuisance violation under Ch. 43.
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