As of February 15, 2024, Pittsburgh Water offers residential customers a one-time $40 credit for an installed rain barrel of at least 50 gallons that captures and detains roof runoff on their property. One rain barrel per parcel will be allowed a credit. Customers must also submit a photo of the rain barrel installed (and identifiable to your address, e.g. a second photo may be needed showing the house/yard) and in good working order (rain barrel properly connected to collect roof stormwater, etc.).
Customers will be notified of approval of the rain barrel credit by email (or by phone if no email address is provided) and the credit will appear on the next Pittsburgh Water bill. Customers will be notified within two weeks of submitting a rain barrel stormwater fee credit.
Customers can fill in the webform at the bottom of this page to submit their application. You can also submit the completed Rain Barrel Stormwater Fee Credit Application form via mail or email to:
Pittsburgh Water
ATTN: Department of Engineering and Construction, Rain Barrel Stormwater Fee Credit
1200 Penn Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much is Pittsburgh Water's Stormwater Fee Credit for a Rain Barrel and Who is Eligible?
The PUC approved the update to Pittsburgh Water’s Stormwater Fee Credit Program to include the one-time $40 credit for installed rain barrels effective on and after February 15, 2024. The credit is for an installed rain barrel of at least 50 gallons that captures and detains roof runoff on their property. One rain barrel per parcel will be allowed a credit. Customers must submit a photo of the rain barrel installed (and identifiable to your address, e.g. a second photo if needed showing house/yard) and in good working order (rain barrel properly connected to collect roof stormwater, etc.).
Where Can I Buy a Rain Barrel?
Rain barrels are available at large big box hardware stores, garden centers, on-line, or at other locations. Additional hardware may be required to connect the rain barrel to your downspouts. Please refer to manufacturers’ instructions.
From time to time, the Pennsylvania Resources Council hosts watershed and rain barrel workshops during which attendees can learn about rain barrels and purchase a rain barrel for use at home.
What are the Requirements for a Submission for a Rain Barrel Credit Application?
Please provide:
- All of the information requested in the application.
- A second photo showing the house/yard if the rain barrel isn’t immediately identifiable to your address.
- A photo showing the rain barrel in good working order – such as properly connected to collect roof stormwater, etc. Please note, large files might not attach. Photos must be under 100MB.
Other Information Resources for Rain Barrel Installation, Use, and Maintenance
(Note that Pittsburgh Water provides this for your information and does not specifically endorse any source of rain barrels or advice. You should always use your own judgement.)
- Rain Barrel Installation (Big Box Stores): Lowe's; Home Depot
- Allegheny County Conservation District: Southwestern Pennsylvania Homeowner's Guide to Stormwater
- Westmoreland Conservation District: You Can Capture Rainwater to Use Later
- Upstream Pittsburgh: Rain Barrel Initiative
- Chesapeake Bay Foundation: Rain Barrel Maintenance