Oklahoma Rainwater Harvesting Authorization Statute

Under the Water for 2060 Act (82 O.S. Sec. 1086.1 et seq.), Oklahoma adopted a statewide policy of using no more fresh water in 2060 than was used in 2012, encouraging conservation practices including rainwater harvesting. Oklahoma treats diffused surface water captured before reaching a defined watercourse as available for use by the landowner. Cities cannot prohibit residential rain barrels or cisterns, though they may regulate cross-connection to potable plumbing under the state plumbing code. Harvested water generally cannot be used for drinking without proper treatment certification.

Improper cross-connection to potable supply violates state plumbing code; fines vary by jurisdiction. No statewide penalty exists for residential rainwater collection itself.