Rain barrels and cisterns · California

City of San Diego Rain Barrel and Cistern Rebate

Run by City of San Diego Public Utilities Department

PausedLast checked October 17, 2026
What you get
$1.50 per gallon of storage capacity (delivery cost also rebated), up to $800 per property or unit
Maximum
$800 per household
Who qualifies
City of San Diego Public Utilities residential water customers, renters included; individual multifamily units; HOAs (one application per community).
Where
City of San Diego Public Utilities residential water customers, including renters.
Status
Paused. City's rebates page (accessed 2026-10-17) says the Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program is temporarily paused and applications for rain barrel/cistern, rain gutter and downspout redirect rebates are not being accepted at this time.
Type of payment
Rebate
Official program page

What you do

Buy and install a rain barrel or cistern (45-5,000 gallons) connected to a roof downspout.

Requirements

  • Capacity 45 to 5,000 gallons, connected to a rain gutter downspout
  • Secure lid, screened inlets/outlets (1/16 inch), opaque UV-resistant material
  • Overflow directed away from buildings, preferably to vegetation
  • Label NONPOTABLE RAINWATER; not connected to irrigation system, hose or bucket only
  • Roof water only; no underground cisterns, copper, taxes, labor
  • Maintain for 3 years; inspection may be required
  • Pre-install photo and 2+ post-install photos per tank; paid receipts; W-9

How to apply

  1. 1Review program at WasteNoWater.org
  2. 2Take one pre-installation photo of the planned location
  3. 3Purchase and install the barrel or cistern
  4. 4Take 2+ post-installation photos per tank from different directions
  5. 5Submit the application with receipts, photos and water bill account number
  6. 6Submit a W-9 online or by mail
  7. 7Receive rebate check

Timing and deadlines

Check about 6-8 weeks after the application is complete

not published

Combining it with other programs

SoCal WaterSmart rain barrel rebate may be available separately; not verified

Sources

Last checked October 17, 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.

Sow is not affiliated with any of these agencies or utilities. Amounts and rules change, often at the start of a fiscal year, so confirm the details on the official page before you start a project. How we research these programs

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