Rain Barrels

Notice: Due to the "shelter in place" order currently in effect in the Bay Area, rebate processing may be delayed at this time.  We appreciate your understanding. 

Prepare for the rainy season by installing a rain barrel!  Rebates of up to $200 are now available. 
 

In partnership with the San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program (a program of the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County), BAWSCA and participating member agencies are offering rebates of up to $200 per rain barrel or cistern for the purchase and installation of qualifying rain barrels.

For the fastest rebate, apply online. You will need your water account number in order to register for an online account and submit your application.

Program Information

• Apply Online
• Rain Barrel Rebate Application for San Mateo County Residents
• Rain Barrel Rebate Application for Non San Mateo County Residents
• Rain Barrel Rebate Program Terms and Conditions
• Installation and Maintenance Guidelines
• Use Guidelines and Health Information
• Mosquito Prevention Guidelines– San Mateo County
• Mosquito Prevention Guidelines- Alameda County

What are rain barrels?

Rain barrels are used to collect rainwater from hard surfaces such as rooftops and store it for later use. They are low-cost systems that allow you to supplement your water supply with a sustainable source and help preserve local watersheds by detaining rainfall. When you install a rain barrel at your home you are helping to maintain a healthy urban watershed by reducing the demand on the potable water system to irrigate your garden, and by reducing the amount of wet weather runoff that is collected and sent into the public storm water system, which goes untreated into our bays and estuaries.

Are rain barrels a good option for me?

Rain barrels and cisterns are appropriate for sites with the following characteristics:

• Roof areas that drain to downspouts
• A level, firm surface to support a rain barrel to prevent shifting or falling over.  A full 55-gallon rain barrel will weigh over 400 lbs
• A landscaped area where captured water can be used (and where it can be drained by gravity flow) located within a reasonable distance
• A landscaped area or safe path to the storm drain

How much water do rain barrels save?

The amount of water that can be collected from a rooftop depends on several variables, including the dimensions of the rooftop, the collection capacity, and the amount and timing of the rain received. Be sure to do some calculations to determine how much rain barrel storage capacity you need. For example, San Mateo typically receives around 19 inches of rain annually.
 

How do I receive a rebate?

You may be eligible for two rebates totaling up to $200 for your rain barrel or cistern purchase, including:

• Up to $150 from the San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program for San Mateo County installations
• Up to $50 from participating BAWSCA water agencies or the City of San Mateo

Total combined rebate is up to $200 per qualifying rain barrel or cistern or up to the total cost of the rain barrel, not including sales tax, whichever is less.
 

New rebated amounts are effective July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021

• Rain barrels with a 50-99 gallon capacity:
  $50 (+ $50 from participating member agencies) = Up to $100 rebate per rain barrel
   
• Rain barrels with a 100-199 gallon capacity:
  $100 (+ $50 from participating member agencies) = Up to $150 rebate per rain barrel
   
• Rain barrels with a 200+ gallon capacity:
  $150 (+ $50 from participating member agencies) = Up to $200 rebate per rain barrel

To obtain your rebate, submit your rebate application, along with your purchase receipt and post-installation photos, to BAWSCA via mail at 155 Bovet Road Suite 650, San Mateo, CA 94402.

Member Agencies offering Rain Barrel Rebate