Utah operates under prior appropriation water rights, where the state technically “owns” all water, including rainwater, but homeowners can legally harvest it with registration. Since 2010, Senate Bill 32 has allowed collection up to 2,500 gallons per property for personal use without a full water right permit. Larger systems or commercial uses require state engineer approval to avoid forfeiture risks.​​
Harvesting Rules
Register free online via the Division of Water Rights for systems over 100 gallons or multiple barrels; smaller setups like two 55-gallon drums need no filing. Use stays limited to irrigation or domestic non-potable needs on your property.​
Conservation Mandates
Drought rules enforce efficient use, with senior rights holders prioritized during shortages. Cities like those in Mountain Regional Water promote rain barrels via programs, tying into broader rebates for xeriscaping.​​
Ownership Nuances
Rain falling on private land belongs to downstream decreed rights, but harvesting exemptions protect small-scale collection. Violators face civil penalties, though enforcement targets large diversions over backyard barrels.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvCvgoPj9Tg)
[2](https://www.ntotank.com/blog/rainwater-harvesting-laws-regulations-and-rights-by-us-state)
[3](https://waterrights.utah.gov/wrinfo/faq.asp)
[4](https://utahrivers.org/rainharvest)
[5](https://waterrights.utah.gov/forms/rainwater.asp)
