YardSmart rain barrels
Capturing and using rainwater for your yard
Make every drop count: Collect and use rainwater
Using a rain barrel is a great way to capture and reuse rainwater in your yard. Capturing rainwater helps to reduce the amount of rainwater runoff entering the stormwater system and flowing into our creeks and rivers.
Using captured rainwater on your plants before reaching for the garden hose can help you reduce the amount of city water you are charged for during the summer.
Please note: Collected rainwater is not potable, which means you shouldn't drink it. There also may be risks associated with using it on food crops.
If you choose to use rainwater on your food crops, follow the precautions below.
2026 rain barrel rebate program - details coming soon
2026 program details will be posted here once confirmed. Please check back for updates.
Rain barrel rebate program (2026 information coming soon)
Details for the 2026 rain barrel rebate program will be posted here once confirmed. In the meantime, you can still learn about rain barrels, how to set them up and maintain them, and where to purchase a barrel.
Where to purchase a rain barrel
The rebate program is not currently available, but you can still buy a rain barrel from many retailers, businesses or not-for-profit organizations (local garden centres, home-improvement stores, or online). We recommend calling ahead to confirm availability.
Frequently asked questions
Is the rain barrel rebate program available now?
The 2025 program is closed. 2026 details will be posted here when confirmed.
When will rain barrel sales / rebate applications open?
Details for 2026 are being finalized. Please check back for updates.
The benefits of using a rain barrel
Water use can increase significantly in the summer months due to outdoor watering. Capturing rainwater can help Calgarians and our community build resiliency during times of hot and dry weather while keeping yards and gardens healthy.
Rain barrels typically fill up after a single rainfall and help keep water on your property, so less dirt and contaminants wash into the rivers.
Join the thousands of Calgarians who are using water wisely by installing rain barrels for outdoor watering. By incorporating a rain barrel into your outdoor routine, you're not only benefiting your yard but also contributing to a greener Calgary.
Setting up your rain barrel
Please read the installation instructions carefully and refer to the barrel manufacturer or retailer for support. You can set up one rain barrel, or multiple rain barrels - each attached to a downspout or connected in series.
Ensure your rain barrel is on a stable and wide surface to prevent it from being pulled or knocked over. And, for safety's sake, ensure your barrel has a secure cover.
Make sure the overflow drain pipe or your downspout is set at least 1.5 metres (five feet) away from your house.
-
For more information about setting up and maintaining your rain barrels.
Additional resources
Seasonal rain barrel maintenance
When cold weather arrives, here are a few quick actions to keep your barrel from cracking:
- Completely drain your barrel of water.
- Remove and store taps and place barrel upside down in a protected area away from strong winds.
- Always remember to reconnect your downspout. If you have a diverter attached to the downspout, remember to winterize it as well. Check with the manufacturer for specific instructions.
Risks of using collected rainwater
Rain barrels collect water that runs off a large surface, such as a rooftop. Every catchment area is unique and therefore the quality of water collected by rain barrels is unpredictable and could change each time a barrel is filled.
The primary risks associated with roof-top collected rainwater are bacterial pathogens, mostly those transmitted by birds and small mammals.
The pathogens most carried by these types of animals are Campylobacter and Salmonella. These two pathogens are the most common cause of foodborne illness and have often been detected in studies looking at the water quality of rooftop collected rainwater.
If an individual chooses to use collected rainwater for food crops at their own risk extra precautions can include:
- Use a drip irrigation system or hand water the plant roots with a watering can. This is called ‘base of plant’ watering and will help to prevent possible contamination of above-ground fruits and vegetables.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables to remove as much contamination as possible.
Green Calgary’s rain barrel program is sponsored by:
