Living green in Minnesota means making intelligent choices about resources, including water. Setting up a water-catching system is an excellent way to save water, but you need to know the legal rules to follow them. Here is what you should know about Minnesota’s water-catching laws.
Understanding the basics
In Minnesota, you need approval from the commissioner to install, build, change or fix a rainwater-catching system. You must submit complete plumbing plans and get their approval before getting a permit. This step is essential to ensure your system follows all state rules.
Key rules to follow
To help you through the process, here are some rules you need to follow:
- Approval and permits: You must get approval for your plans before starting. This means sending in detailed plumbing plans that show your proposed system. Once approved, you can get the needed permits.
- No direct link to drinking water: Your rainwater-catching system cannot directly link to a water supply. When you use drinking or reused water as a backup, you must protect it with an air gap or a special backflow preventer. This keeps your drinking water clean.
- Material standards and water quality: The materials used in your system must meet specific standards to ensure they last and are safe. The collected rainwater must also meet specific quality rules, making it safe for its intended use.
Understanding these rules is critical for a smooth setup process and avoiding legal trouble.
When to ask for legal help
While the process might seem simple, dealing with the legal side can be challenging. Talking to a lawyer can help if you encounter any issues or need help with the approval process. They can help you understand the details of the law, make sure your plans follow all rules and represent you if any legal disputes arise.
Final thoughts
Setting up a water-catching system in Minnesota can significantly help your green living efforts, giving you a reliable and eco-friendly water source. Knowing and following state rules can avoid legal problems and ensure your system works well. Always ask for legal advice if you are unsure about any part of the process. This forward-thinking approach can eventually save you time, money and stress.