Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting refers to the capture, diversion, and storage of rainwater for landscape irrigation and other uses. It can be incorporated into large-scale landscapes such as parks, schools, commercial sites, parking lots, and apartment complexes, as well as small-scale residential landscapes.

Some harvesting systems can be very simple, consisting of a roof catchment area, rain barrels, and garden hoses. Other systems are much more complex and include large cisterns and piped distribution systems. Costs can vary greatly depending on the type of system installed.

Most homeowners can install and use a rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation without needing a permit from the State. For larger-scale commercial projects, please contact the local OSE Water Rights Division office to inquire about any permitting requirements. Any water quality questions should be directed to the New Mexico Environment Department.

The New Mexico Office of the State Engineer supports the wise and efficient use of the state’s water resources and therefore encourages the harvesting, collection, and use of rainwater from residential and commercial roof surfaces for on-site landscape irrigation and other on-site domestic uses.

• Roof-Reliant Landscaping
• A Waterwise Guide to Rainwater Harvesting
• Rainwater Harvesting: Supply From The Sky
• Texas Guide to Rainwater Harvesting
• International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association

Please contact water.nm@ose.nm.gov for additional resources or if you have any questions.

The collection of water harvested in this manner should not reduce the amount of runoff that would have occurred from the site in its natural, pre-development state. Harvested rainwater may not be appropriated for any other uses.

Consult the following pages for more information on rainwater harvesting:

Texas Guide to Rainwater Harvesting - A complete how-to booklet including water quality and cost considerations from the Texas Water Development Board

International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association - Association of individuals and professionals who are dedicated to the promotion of rainwater harvesting.