Dripping Springs adjusts regulations for certain rainwater harvesting systems

The Dripping Springs City Council recently approved an amendment to the plumbing code that will make it easier for property owners to use rainwater harvesting systems for outdoor irrigation.

The overview

The amendment is designed to encourage water conservation by removing the plumbing permit requirement for qualifying rainwater harvesting systems.

According to a news release, the amendment applies to systems that:

• Are only used for exterior landscape irrigation or outdoor non-potable uses
• Are completely separate from potable water systems, public water supplies, indoor plumbing fixtures and building plumbing systems
• Meet the city’s plumbing code requirements

What they’re saying

"This amendment supports responsible water conservation while ensuring that systems connected to drinking water or public water supplies continue to meet all applicable safety requirements," Mayor Bill Foulds said in the news release. "By clarifying the city's code, we hope to make rainwater harvesting more accessible for property owners who want to use harvested rainwater to irrigate their landscapes."

What else?

Other permits or approvals may be required for a given project. City officials encourage property owners who are contemplating a rainwater harvesting system to direct project-specific questions to the city’s Development Services Department at 512-858-4725.