RAIN BARREL PROGRAM
Catch that rain! Save money by taking advantage of rainwater as a FREE resource. Promote plant and soil health by watering with chemical-free collected rainwater. Reduce runoff and pollution to the environment and protect local creeks, streams, and the ocean. Contribute to water conservation efforts by reducing the need to use potable municipal water for irrigation.
Purchase Rain Barrels
Start collecting rainwater now! By using a rain barrel, San Diegans can collect water for later use, reduce runoff to the ocean, and save money on their water bill. Reducing runoff from driveways, streets, and sidewalks also keeps harmful pollutants from reaching beaches and waterways. Instead, we can redirect fresh rainwater to our plants that need it most.
Just one inch of rain yields 600 gallons per 1000 sq. ft. of roof space, depending on your roof configuration. That's a lot of free, fresh water for San Diegans to divert and help their plants thrive. In addition to diverting rainwater, the rain barrels provided can store up to 50 gallons of rainwater for later use in a mosquito-proof container.
Planning to come to pick up your pre-purchased barrel? Review our Pick Up Procedures.
So Cal Rain Barrel Rebates
Discounted Rain Barrels for City of San Diego Residents*
Purchase a rain barrel for only $30!
Twice a year limited-time discounts on rain barrels are available for City of San Diego residents, made possible by Think Blue San Diego.
We’re coming to your neighborhood with exciting education opportunities to set up your household for water harvesting success. Order your discounted rain barrel for pick up at one of the following events and stay for an educational workshop:
Linda Vista Recreation Center
7064 Levant St. San Diego, CA 92111
Sunday, November 15, 2026
10-11 a.m. - Rainwater harvesting workshop
12-3 p.m. - Rain barrel pick up window
North Clairemont Rec Center
4421 Bannock Avenue San Diego, CA 92117
Saturday, January 23, 2027
10-11 a.m. - Rainwater harvesting workshop
12-3 p.m. - Rain barrel pick up window
Want more information before ordering or can’t make it to the workshop? Learn virtually instead!
Not sure if a rain barrel is a good fit for your household? Join our webinar on Wednesday, October 21 from 6-7 p.m. to learn more! This webinar is designed for City of San Diego residents and will be detailing rebates and discount programs, how to harvest rainwater in your household, and the best way to use your new rain barrel!
*Discounted rain barrels available while supplies last. Rain barrel discounts only available for qualified City of San Diego residents, lifetime limit of two per household. If you have purchased 2 discounted rain barrels since 2023, you are not eligible. Additional orders will be cancelled and refunded.
Funding for this project has been provided in full or in part from the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 and through an agreement with the State Department of Water Resources.
Features of the Ivy Rain Barrel
Ivy provides a new era of design innovation at an economical price. All parts are included for simple installation.
Made in the USA using 100% recycled materials!
50-gallon capacity - perfect for homeowners
Dark in color to prevent algae growth.
Large overflow hose included to divert excess water.
Ivy comes with two ports to easily link two or more using existing overflow hose.
Screened inlet filters debris and protects against mosquito breeding.
Ring pops out for easy cleaning screen.
3/4" HDPE ball valve easily connects to garden hose.
Fully drains to prevent stagnant water.
Locking child-proof lid, stable when full
Gravity fed-no pumps required
Easily transport two Ivy barrels in a mid-size sedan
Dimensions 42.5"H x 22"D
Further Information from Rainwater Solutions
Have questions about rain barrels or the purchase process?
Contact us at [email protected] or (760) 436-7986 x70
Have questions about rebates? Please visit the links in the above rebate sections and contact the agencies directly for assistance.
Water Meter Rebates Available to San Diego Residents
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Apply for $35 rebate after purchase, available for most San Diego region residents. Rebate is limited to two barrels per person. Rebate dependent on application approval. Learn more about rebate at SoCalWaterSmart.org or read our rebate FAQ. Rebates generously provided by the San Diego Water Authority. Contact SoCal WaterSmart at (888) 376-3314 for inquiries.
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The County of San Diego has added an additional $30 to the above rebate (total $65 return). They also have an additional rebate per gallon saved. County rebates available to unincorporated County residents only. See County Rebate site for details.
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Additional $100 rebates are available for Olivenhain and San Dieguito Water Districts and a $150 rebate for LADWP customers. If you are eligible, apply for your rebate here.
Additional rebates may be available through your water district. Check availability by selecting "Flow Monitor Device on Utility Meter" under the "Select Device" section here.
“Thank you for the workshop today at Mountain View Community Center, and for the two rain barrels I took home. I really appreciate all the work your crew does to develop community around sustainable living.”
— Rain Barrel Workshop Participant