House Bill 16-1005 Summary

• Permits Colorado residents to collect precipitation from residential rooftops using up to two rain barrels with a combined capacity of 110 gallons or less without obtaining a water right.

• Restricts collected rainwater to outdoor nonpotable uses only, such as lawn and garden irrigation, and prohibits use for drinking water or indoor household purposes.

• Applies to single-family residences and multi-family residences with four or fewer units, with collected water required to be used on the property where collected.

• Requires the State Engineer to report to the legislature by March 1, 2019, and March 1, 2022, on whether rain barrel usage has caused discernible injury to downstream water rights.

• Authorizes the Department of Public Health and Environment to develop best practices for nonpotable water usage and disease/pest vector control, and prohibits homeowners associations from banning rain barrels, though they may impose reasonable aesthetic requirements.