Is rainwater harvesting legal in Kansas?

Yes. Kansas allows rooftop and impervious surface rainwater collection for non-potable on-site use without a water appropriation permit from the Division of Water Resources.

Do I need a permit for a rain barrel in Kansas?

No state water permit is required for typical rain barrels collecting rooftop runoff. Local building or plumbing permits may apply for larger cisterns or indoor plumbing.

Can I use harvested rainwater for drinking?

Potable indoor use must comply with Kansas plumbing codes and KDHE drinking water rules, including treatment, backflow prevention, and separation from public water supplies.

Kansas Rainwater Harvesting Law: Statewide Landscaping Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Rooftop collection: Allowed without permit
Common uses: Irrigation, livestock
Stream diversion: Permit required
Indoor reuse: Plumbing code applies
Regulating agency: KDA-DWR

Full Breakdown

The Kansas Department of Agriculture, Division of Water Resources, has long interpreted the Water Appropriation Act (K.S.A. 82a-701 et seq.) to exclude rainwater collected from rooftops and impervious surfaces from the definition of regulated 'water of the state.' Property owners may install rain barrels, cisterns, and larger harvesting systems for landscape irrigation, gardening, livestock, and other non-potable uses without water-right permits. Diversion of natural watercourses or surface flows still requires appropriation permits. Local plumbing and building codes may govern indoor connections, especially when systems are plumbed for potable or non-potable indoor reuse.

Violations & Penalties

Improper diversion of streams or surface water without permits violates K.S.A. 82a-705, with penalties including injunction and civil fines. Properly installed rooftop systems generally face no enforcement risk.

Kansas Rainwater Harvesting Allowed Statewide

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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