Indiana residents own the rainwater that falls on their property and can legally harvest it without state restrictions. No statewide laws prohibit collection or use for non-potable purposes like irrigation or vehicle washing.​
Ownership and Harvesting Rights
Rainwater is considered the property of the landowner in Indiana, following riparian principles where owners of land adjacent to watercourses have rights to reasonable use. Harvesting systems for residential outdoor non-potable applications require no permits or licenses, per the 2020 Indiana Residential Code Chapter 29, which provides guidelines on backflow prevention and materials. Indoor or potable uses may need permits and ANSI/NSF-compliant treatment to ensure safety.​
Conservation Regulations
Indiana promotes water conservation through measures like watershed development commissions for flood and quality management, established in 2025. High-capacity groundwater withdrawals face new construction standards under SEA 28, effective July 2025, to protect aquifers without altering rainwater rules. Utilities must now secure permits for large interbasin transfers via Senate Bill 4, emphasizing sustainability.​
Local Incentives
Municipalities such as West Lafayette and Elkhart County offer rain barrel rebates and workshops to encourage harvesting. These programs support stormwater reduction and cost savings, aligning with state environmental goals like the Clean Water Indiana Program. Homeowners benefit from reduced utility bills and resilience during shortages.
SOURCES
[1](https://indianahub.org/rainwater-harvesting-in-indiana/)
[2](https://www.repository.law.indiana.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?httpsredir=1&article=2756&context=ilj)
[3](https://www.inh2o.org/legislative-update)
[4](http://www.farmers-exchange.net/detailPage.aspx?articleID=24733)
[5](https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/landscaping/rainwater-harvesting-guidelines-by-state/)
