Pennsylvania Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Key Facts

State Restriction: None on collection
Plumbing Code: PA UCC Act 45
Backflow Required: Yes, for indoor use
Outdoor Barrels: Generally unregulated

Full Breakdown

Pennsylvania has no statute restricting rainwater collection. The Uniform Construction Code (Act 45 of 1999) at 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401-405 universally adopts the International Plumbing Code provisions governing non-potable rainwater systems and cross-connection control. Any indoor plumbing tie-in must comply with state UCC requirements regardless of locality. Outdoor barrel collection is unrestricted.

Violations & Penalties

Plumbing connections without code-compliant backflow prevention can result in UCC violations, abatement orders, and civil penalties up to $1,000 per day until corrected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rainwater harvesting legal in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Pennsylvania has no statewide prohibition on rainwater collection. Outdoor rain barrels for irrigation are universally permitted, though plumbing tie-ins must meet Uniform Construction Code requirements.

Can I use rainwater for drinking?

Potable rainwater systems require treatment and code-compliant plumbing under the PA UCC. For permitted public supplies, additional PADEP Safe Drinking Water Act compliance applies.

Pennsylvania Rainwater Harvesting Legal Status Statewide

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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