Is it illegal to collect rainwater?
No, collecting rainwater is not illegal in itself. Many people collect water from roofs for irrigation and other purposes, but local rules can affect how the water may be stored and used.
Is it illegal to collect rainwater?
No, collecting rainwater is not illegal in itself.
Rainwater can be collected from roofs, for example, and directed through gutters and downpipes into a barrel or larger tank. It is a common way to make use of water that would otherwise run away from the property.
However, rules relating to installation and use can vary between countries, regions and municipalities.
What can rainwater be used for?
Collected rainwater is often used for purposes such as:
- watering the garden
- greenhouses and growing plants
- cleaning
- other uses where drinking water is not required
How the water can be used depends on how it is collected, stored and treated.
Rules can vary from place to place
Collecting rainwater is one thing, while how the system is installed and how the water is used is another.
In some places, there may be specific rules for larger tanks, connections to buildings, drainage systems or the use of rainwater indoors.
It is therefore sensible to check the local rules if you are planning a larger or more advanced system.
Drinking water has higher requirements
If rainwater is to be used as drinking water, considerably more is required than simply collecting it in a tank.
Water from a roof can contain particles, microorganisms and other contaminants. It therefore needs to be treated and the water quality checked before it is used as drinking water.
A simple rain barrel is an easy way to start
For many people, connecting a rain barrel to a downpipe and using the water in the garden is enough.
If you want to collect larger amounts, it is useful first to understand how much water is available from your particular roof.