Culture of Peace Initiative

'Rainwater Harvesting' refers to the collection and storage of rain. Collection is usually from rooftops, and storage in catchment tanks. Stored water can be used for non-potable purposes such as irrigating lawns, washing cars, or flushing toilets. Rainwater harvesting systems can range from a simple barrel at the bottom of a downspout to multiple tanks with pumps and controls. Before the creation of public water utilities, rainwater harvesting provided water for many American homes. It is still popular in places with limited water resources such as island communities like Hawaii. While we think of ourselves as living in a rainy climate, recent drought conditions throughout Oregon remind us how quickly we can run short of water.

Code Requirements The Bureau of Development Services has produced a prescriptive code guide that details how to design and build a residential rainwater harvesting system for permit approval. A permit is required to use rainwater indoors, and the details shown in the guide should ensure that rainwater stays separate from potable water. The City considers unfiltered rainwater non-potable or unsafe to drink. For commercial projects, the City reviews each system through the appeal process. See below for details. Code Requirements The Bureau of Development Services has produced a prescriptive code guide that details how to design and build a residential rainwater harvesting system for permit approval. A permit is required to use rainwater indoors, and the details shown in the guide should ensure that rainwater stays separate from potable water. The City considers unfiltered rainwater non-potable or unsafe to drink. For commercial projects, the City reviews each system through the appeal process. See below for details.       Portland Residential Rainwater Harvesting Code Guide (Bureau of Development Services-BDS) Commercial Rainwater Harvesting: Ken Carlson 503-823-7255 'Oregon Smart Guides' on rainwater harvesting and water conservation systems (i.e. gray water reuse).         RESOURCES: Rain Barrel Guide (BES) Rain Barrels for Irrigation Tutorial Water Efficiency for Your Home  (Rocky Mountain Institute) Rain Barrel Guide     CASE STUDIES: Rainwater Harvesting and Purification Systemby Ole and Maitri Ersson People's Food Co-op Case Study PSU Stephen Epler Hall Case Study Rivas-Scott Case Study     INCENTIVES AND GRANTS: Community Watershed Stewardship Program (BES) Clean River Rewards Program (BES) Ecoroof Grant (BES)