Arizona actively encourages rainwater harvesting. Scottsdale permits and promotes rainwater collection for landscape irrigation. The state offers a tax credit for residential rainwater harvesting systems. No permit is typically required for basic residential rain barrel systems.
Arizona law encourages rainwater harvesting as part of the state's water conservation strategy. Scottsdale permits rainwater collection and encourages it through its sustainability programs. The Arizona Rainwater Harvesting Tax Credit (ARS §43-1090.01) provides a personal income tax credit of up to 25% of the cost of a system (max $1,000). Basic rain barrel systems do not typically require a building permit. Larger cistern systems or those connected to plumbing may require a permit. Scottsdale's DSPM and green building guidelines reference rainwater harvesting as a best practice for stormwater management. In ESLO areas, passive rainwater harvesting (contouring landscapes to capture and direct rainfall to plants) is particularly encouraged. Collected rainwater may be used for outdoor irrigation and some non-potable indoor uses with appropriate treatment.
Standard rainwater collection is not a violation. Systems that create drainage problems for neighboring properties may be addressed under stormwater regulations.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle rainwater harvesting.
See how Scottsdale's rainwater harvesting rules stack up against other locations.
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