Rainwater harvesting is legal and unrestricted in New York State. Rain barrels and cisterns do not require permits for residential non-potable use such as garden irrigation.
Potable use systems require plumbing permits and backflow prevention per NYS Uniform Code. Cornell Cooperative Extension offers rain barrel workshops. Contact Schenectady County at (518) 388-4220 for enforcement. This rainwater harvesting rule under Schenectady County's landscaping ordinances applies to unincorporated areas of Schenectady County. For current statutory text, amendments, enforcement procedures, fines, appeal options, and any exemptions that may apply to your situation, contact Schenectady County code enforcement directly or consult the official New York municipal code library. Ordinances change periodically; always verify with local staff before relying on summary information.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Schenectady County, NY
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See how Schenectady County's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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