Discover the “legal way” to do rainwater harvesting!
The only complete list online of incentive programs to upgrade your property with rain barrels or cisterns!
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Rain Harvesting FAQ
Frequently Asked
Is collecting rainwater illegal in my state?
We hear this all the time. “You can’t collect rainwater in my state or city because it’s illegal.” This used to be the case in some areas because cities were trying to prevent mosquito populations, and some water runoff is necessary for cleaning streets and moving mass through combined sewers. HOWEVER, it is not illegal in any US state to collect rainwater, but many areas have specific rules before you can install a rain barrel and how much rain you are allowed to collect each year.
Can I buy any type of rain barrel and get a rebate?
The type and amount of rebate you get for installing a rain barrel depend on the incentive program. We see that many incentive programs require you to get at least a 50-gallon barrel; some even want you to get a specific material like plastic over galvanized steel. When you search for an incentive program, be sure to read the fine print, or we can do that for you. 🙂
I can install a rain barrel myself. Why do I need Rainplan?
You absolutely can install a rain barrel yourself, and there are many youtube videos to show you how. Yet, if you don’t have a certain downspout, this can get tricky. Also, in some cases where your foundation has a slope or you want to install a drip irrigation system, we recommend a contractor. If you want to install a cistern, you will need a contractor (even for the above-ground variety) because they need to design and pour the foundation. We can help get you a rebate for all these projects and send you qualified and vetted green infrastructure contractors in your area. Why stress about it when you can have someone else do that?
Is Rainplan a Contractor?
No, we match you with the best contractors in your area and help you navigate the installation process.
Does a rain barrel require maintenance?
Yep! If you want a route with less maintenance but more initial upfront costs, go with a cistern. For rain barrels, upkeep is mandatory. In the winter, you need to unplug, dry, and store them, so they don’t crack. You need to use the water inside of them within two weeks after rainfall so mosquito larvae don’t form. You also need to clean them out after each rainy season so they don’t smell gross from the decaying twigs, leaves, bugs, etc., that evade the filter. Contractors are willing to schedule seasonal maintenance in most areas and can do this for you if you want.
How quickly does a rain barrel fill up?
Depending on your roof size, your rain barrel will certainly fill up after MOST rain events. For example: from a roof section of 200 sq. ft. if it rains half an inch it will fill up a 60-gallon barrel.
Cistern or rain barrel, what's the difference?
Simply put: rain barrels are great for residential homes, and cisterns are great for commercial properties or larger-scale homes on a huge lot. We have a blog about it if you want to read more.
Why Rainwater Collection Is Worth It
Lower Your Water Bills
Use less city water and get stormwater fee reductions each month.
Enhance your Ecosystem
More consistent watering means richer soil and landscaping that doesn’t die.
Prevent Property Damage
Collecting rain water off your roof can prevent your property from flooding and creating damage.
This looks like a streamlined way to explore the process and see if we qualify. We were aware that the DC government is supportive of creating incentives and we went through that process, but the Rainplan was another piece of it and even better with the help and support of the team to do all the steps.
Learn More about Rainwater Collection
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MORE TOOLS TO EXPLORE
Incentive Discovery
Unlock the secrets of stormwater incentives
See if there are rebates, discounts, or zero-interest financing options in your area to offset the cost of upgrading your property.
Storm Score
Rain or shine, your Storm Score has something to tell you
Discover potential incentives for your property, where and how to collect rain, its impact on your property, neighbors, and surrounding community.
Virtual Site Visit
Find solutions without leaving the couch
Using high-resolution aerial imagery, meet with a local professional to analyze your property, discuss next steps, get cost estimates, and next steps for proposals.
Connect with experts in incentives for nature-based solutions
Get proposals from engineers, designers, incentive experts, and contractors in your local area.
We are striving to be the catalyst for the adoption of nature based solutions by streamlining an enriched online platform that makes the process accessible for everyone. We are in beta with some of our offerings, but by signing up for a dashboard we can keep you updated on new experiences and future updates.
—The Rainplan Team