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Rainwater harvesting rebates in Guelph, Ontario
Guelph, Ontario, Canada
Guelph offers a seasonal tank rebate of 50 cents per litre, capped at $2,000, and a $2,000 all-season-system rebate. Ordinary rain barrels and homemade tanks are not eligible for the seasonal system program.
Key information
Guelph offers a seasonal tank rebate of 50 cents per litre, capped at $2,000, and a $2,000 all-season-system rebate. Ordinary rain barrels and homemade tanks are not eligible for the seasonal system program.
On this page
Check eligibility and submit at a glance
- For a seasonal system, choose a tank manufactured for rainwater collection
For a seasonal system, choose a tank manufactured for rainwater collection. It needs a secure child-proof lid and leaf screen. Above-ground tanks must resist algae and ultraviolet exposure.
- Check whether plumbing connections require a building permit
Check whether plumbing connections require a building permit. All-season systems require an engineer and/or qualified plumbing contractor and a building permit.
- Submit the appropriate application and provider evidence
Submit the appropriate application and provider evidence. The seasonal application must be made within a year of purchase or installation. Approved seasonal rebates are listed within 12 weeks, with one per household.
Sources: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Seasonal and all-season routes
| Route | Rebate | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Seasonal outdoor tank | $0.50 per litre; maximum $2,000 | At least 500 L; purpose-made collection tank |
| All-season indoor/outdoor | $2,000 | Qualified design and installation plus building permit |
Sources: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Check eligibility and submit
- For a seasonal system, choose a tank manufactured for rainwater collection. It needs a secure child-proof lid and leaf screen. Above-ground tanks must resist algae and ultraviolet exposure.
- Check whether plumbing connections require a building permit. All-season systems require an engineer and/or qualified plumbing contractor and a building permit.
- Submit the appropriate application and provider evidence. The seasonal application must be made within a year of purchase or installation. Approved seasonal rebates are listed within 12 weeks, with one per household.
Sources: Rainwater harvesting rebate
What each system can do
A seasonal system usually connects a downspout, screen, storage tank and small pump for outside use. A rain barrel, reused tank or homemade tank does not meet the program’s stated eligibility.
An all-season system uses a cistern or indoor tank and treatment before supplying toilets, laundry or hose taps. Design and installation must comply with the Ontario Building Code. The program includes Blue Built Home certification.
Contact rainwater@guelph.ca or 519-822-1260 extension 2633 before buying a system whose eligibility is uncertain.
Sources: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Questions and answers
What is the smallest eligible seasonal tank?
500 litres in a single-unit seasonal rainwater system.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
How is the seasonal rebate calculated?
$0.50 per litre of approved storage, to a maximum of $2,000.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Does a 500 Leligible tank reach the cap?
No. The formula gives $250 for 500 L; this is a calculation from the published rate.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Can an ordinary rain barrel qualify?
No. Rain barrels are excluded from this system rebate.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Can I convert a used tank myself?
Repurposed and homemade tanks are excluded.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
What must an outdoor tank have?
A secure child-proof lid and leaf screen; above-ground installations must be algae- and UV-resistant.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Does connecting to home plumbing need approval?
The city says a building permit is needed for any connection to home plumbing, including a hose bib or tap.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
When must I apply for the seasonal rebate?
Within one year of buying or installing the system.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
How long does an approved seasonal rebate take?
The page lists 12 weeks after the application and system are verified.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Does the all-season route need professional installation?
Yes. An engineer and/or qualified plumbing contractor and a building permit are required.
Source: Rainwater harvesting rebate
Sources: Rainwater harvesting rebate