Is rainwater harvesting legal in Colorado? Find out everything you need to know about the legality and regulations surrounding rainwater harvesting in Colorado.
Rainwater harvesting is allowed in certain circumstances in Colorado. According to Colorado statutes (Section 37-96.5-103, C.R.S.), residential properties, both single-family and multi-family with four or fewer units, are permitted to collect rainwater using rain barrels. The collected rainwater can be used for outdoor purposes such as irrigation, car washing, and livestock watering. However, it cannot be used for drinking water or indoor household purposes.
There is no need for a permit for collecting rainwater in rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of 110 gallons or less. Additional allowances exist for properties with residential wells, allowing for the collection of more than 110 gallons of precipitation under certain conditions. It is important to note that if the residence is served by a water system supplying more than three single-family dwellings, rainwater collection is not allowed under this provision of the law.
Key Takeaways:
- Rainwater harvesting is legal for residential properties with four or fewer units in Colorado.
- Collected rainwater can be used for outdoor purposes, such as irrigation and car washing.
- Rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of 110 gallons or less do not require a permit.
- Additional allowances exist for properties with residential wells.
- Rainwater cannot be used for drinking water or indoor household purposes.
Rainwater Collection Requirements and Restrictions
When utilizing rainwater collection in Colorado, there are certain requirements and restrictions to consider. These guidelines ensure the responsible and sustainable use of rainwater. Here are the key rules to keep in mind:
1. Collection Source
The rainwater must be collected from the roof of a building primarily used as a residence. This ensures that the water that is collected is specifically intended for household needs.
2. Rain Barrel Specifications
The collection of rainwater should take place in rain barrels with sealable lids. These lids prevent unwanted contaminants, such as insects and debris, from entering the stored water. Make sure the lids are properly sealed to maintain the water’s quality.
3. Storage Capacity
The combined storage capacity of rain barrels used for rainwater collection is limited to 110 gallons. This volume restriction helps manage water usage and prevents excessive water storage.
4. Usage Permission
The collected rainwater can only be used for outdoor purposes on the property where it was collected. Typical uses include lawn and garden irrigation, landscape maintenance, and livestock watering. Ensure that the water is utilized responsibly to support the sustainable practices of rainwater harvesting.
5. Drinking Water and Indoor Use
It is crucial to note that the collected rainwater cannot be used for drinking purposes or indoor household uses. Rainwater is not treated or tested to meet the necessary standards for consumption, so it should not be used for drinking, cooking, or other similar activities.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can harness the benefits of rainwater harvesting while ensuring compliance with Colorado’s regulations. Proper rainwater collection allows you to efficiently utilize natural resources and contribute to a sustainable environment.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Collection Source | Roof of a building primarily used as a residence |
| Rain Barrel Specifications | Sealable lids to prevent contamination |
| Storage Capacity | Combined storage capacity of rain barrels limited to 110 gallons |
| Usage Permission | Outdoor use on the property where it was collected |
| Drinking Water and Indoor Use | Not suitable for drinking or indoor household purposes |
Rainwater Collection with Residential Wells
While rainwater harvesting is allowed on residential properties in Colorado, there are additional regulations to consider for properties with residential wells. If you have or can qualify for an exempt or small capacity residential well permit through the Division of Water Resources, you may be eligible to collect more than 110 gallons of precipitation. These permits operate independently of the rainwater collection described earlier and have their own set of requirements.
To collect rainwater under these permits, the water must be collected from the roof of your primary residence and can be used for both indoor and outdoor purposes depending on the specific well permit. However, it is important to note that obtaining a Rooftop Precipitation Collection System Permit from the Colorado Division of Water Resources is necessary before collecting precipitation in connection with an exempt or small capacity well permit.
| Regulations for Rainwater Collection with Residential Wells | Indoor Use | Outdoor Use |
|---|---|---|
| Exempt Well Permit | Allowed | Allowed |
| Small Capacity Well Permit | Allowed | Allowed |
Note: Specific requirements and restrictions may apply to the collection and usage of rainwater under exempt or small capacity residential well permits. It is important to consult the Colorado Division of Water Resources to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
Considerations for Rainwater Collection
When it comes to rainwater collection in Colorado, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. While it is legal to collect rainwater for certain outdoor purposes, it is crucial to assess the quality of the collected rainwater as it may contain impurities. Dust, bird droppings, and chemicals from the atmosphere can be present in rainwater. Additionally, the roofing materials, pitch, and area can affect the quality of the collected water. To address this, it is recommended to use filtration systems or first-flush diverters to remove impurities before storing the rainwater.
Another factor to consider is mosquito prevention. To ensure the stored water remains free from insects and pests, it is essential to use rain barrels with sealable lids. This simple practice helps prevent mosquitoes and other unwanted creatures from accessing the water. By taking this precaution, you can maintain the quality and safety of your collected rainwater.
While rainwater collection can be a valuable resource for various outdoor purposes, it is important to emphasize that untreated rainwater should never be used for drinking or indoor household purposes. This is because rainwater can contain harmful bacteria, parasites, viruses, and chemicals. Therefore, it is always recommended to use rainwater solely for non-potable uses such as irrigation, car washing, or livestock watering.