Question 1

Is collecting rain legal?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In fact, there are local rebates available that help pay for your rain collection system! Find more info here!

Question 2

How much rain can I collect from my home gutter system?

Accepted Answer

You can use this rainwater collection calculator to determine your roofs catchment capability. (Sonoma County has an average annual rainfall of about 39 inches. Enter that number into the appropriate field in the calculator.)

Question 3

What sizes of rain tanks can I use?

Accepted Answer

Your typical rain catchment system could range anywhere from stacked 300 gallon totes, to 550 gallon slim line tanks, to much larger tanks up to 5,000 gallons. Anything greater than 5,000 gallons requires a permit.

Question 4

Is a rain garden required for overflow?

Accepted Answer

While rain gardens are not required for rain tank overflow, we highly encourage our clients to work to form their landscape to serve to slow down the excess water. The reality is, during the rainy season, it will rain more than you can catch. Creating rain gardens and swales serves as an extra step to keep this water in your local ecology and out of the sewer.

Question 5

How can I maintain my rain catchment system?

Accepted Answer

To maintain your rain catchment system, regularly clean the gutters, check for leaks, ensure proper filtration, and monitor water quality.

Question 6

How can rain catchment systems help in water conservation?

Accepted Answer

Rain catchment systems collect and store rainwater for later use, reducing the reliance on municipal water sources and helping to conserve water.

Frequently Asked Questions