Queens County, NY Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in Queens and actively encouraged by NYC as part of the city's green infrastructure and stormwater-management strategy. NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) operates the GreenHouse rain-barrel giveaway program, distributing free 55-gallon rain barrels to NYC property owners who attend workshops. Queens distribution events are held annually at various parks and community centers throughout the borough. Small residential rain barrels under 360 gallons total capacity do not require NYC DOB plumbing permits, provided they are not connected to household plumbing and do not require backflow prevention. Larger residential cisterns (over 360 gallons) or commercial systems require DOB plumbing-code review under the NYC Plumbing Code 2022, including backflow prevention if any connection to potable systems exists. Harvested rainwater may be used for outdoor irrigation, car washing (residential), and non-potable uses. It cannot be used for drinking or cooking without NYSDOH-certified treatment. The NYC Green Infrastructure Plan actively encourages rain barrels, bioswales, permeable pavers, and green roofs to reduce stormwater runoff into the combined sewer system, which discharges raw sewage during heavy rain (CSO events). Residents whose properties drain to Newtown Creek, Flushing Creek, or Jamaica Bay are especially encouraged to harvest rainwater to reduce CSO impacts.