Rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation is legal and encouraged in Palm Springs, though rainfall is extremely limited (about 4-6 inches annually). Rain barrels under 5,000 gallons need no permit. Larger cisterns and any connection to potable plumbing require permits and backflow protection under the California Plumbing Code.
California's Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (SB 1079/AB 1750) allows homeowners to collect rainwater from rooftops for non-potable outdoor use without a state water right, and the state has authorized broader stormwater capture under SB 903 (2022). In Palm Springs, small rain barrels installed at downspouts for irrigation use are allowed without a building permit; the usual guidance is tanks under 5,000 gallons, above ground, with screened inlets to prevent mosquito breeding and child-safe lids. Larger cisterns, below-ground installations, or any plumbing tie-in to toilets or indoor use trigger Building Division review under the California Plumbing Code Chapter 15 (non-potable rainwater systems) and require backflow prevention where any cross-connection to potable supply could occur. Because annual rainfall is roughly 4-6 inches, rainwater meaningfully offsets only drip and hand-watering of desert plants. HOAs cannot unreasonably prohibit rain barrels under California Civil Code §4735.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Palm Springs code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle rainwater harvesting.
See how Palm Springs's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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