Introduction
Rain barrels are a great way to conserve water, reduce runoff, and decrease water pollution, and the collected rainwater can even be healthier for plants. They offer an easy, affordable way for homeowners to support water sustainability while improving the overall health of their landscape.
Colorado rain barrel regulations
In 2016, Rainwater harvesting legalized for the first time in Colorado. Rain barrels can now be installed at single-family households and multi-family households with four (4) or fewer units. Collecting rainwater runoff into a rain barrel helps prevent contaminants from flowing into the local watershed while providing a free water source for use in your home landscape.
House Bill 16-1005 allows Colorado residents to:
- Install a maximum of two (2) rain barrels to collect up to 110 gallons
- Rainwater can only be used for outdoor purposes such as lawns, plans, and/or gardens.
- The container needs to have a sealable lid to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Rainwater must be used on the same property from which the rainwater was captured.
- Rainwater cannot be used for drinking or other indoor water uses.