How to Apply for the SCRD Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program

Sunshine Coast homeowners have a fantastic opportunity to save money and conserve water through the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program. This program offers financial rebates for installing rainwater storage systems – helping you capture free rainwater for your garden and reduce your use of treated tap water. In this article, we'll explain the rebate program benefits and walk you through the step-by-step process of applying, with tips on choosing eligible water storage tanks from BARR Plastics.

You can apply for the SCRD Rainwater Harvesting Rebate online. Start your pre-approval here
👉 Apply at scrd.ca/rainwater

Tip

• Apply before you buy your tank.
• Keep your photos and itemized receipt ready for your claim.
• If you need a tight quote for your application, contact BARR Plastics and we will prepare it for you.

Introduction to the SCRD Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program

The SCRD Rainwater Harvesting Rebate Program is designed to encourage residents to install cisterns (water storage tanks) for collecting rainwater. How does it benefit you? For one, you can get money back for installing a qualifying rainwater tank – up to $500 for at least 4,500 L of storage, or up to $1,000 for 9,000 L or more. This rebate helps offset the cost of the tank. Equally important, harvesting rainwater lets you use it for outdoor tasks like watering gardens, which lowers your municipal water bills and preserves our community’s treated water supply. Rainwater is also exempt from watering restrictions, meaning you can keep your garden green even during summer conservation regulations.

Key benefits of the program:

• Save Money: Receive a rebate check of up to $1,000 (maximum per property) after installing a qualifying rainwater cistern. This is essentially a partial refund on your purchase of a water storage tank.
• Conserve Water: By using rainwater for irrigation or other non-potable uses, you reduce demand on the SCRD water system and make your household more water-resilient.
• Drought Resilience: Stored rainwater can be used during dry spells or watering restrictions, since rainwater use is not subject to SCRD watering bans.
• Environmental Benefits: Capturing rainwater helps manage stormwater runoff and reduces strain on local aquifers and streams.

Important: The program requires that you apply for pre-approval before purchasing your rainwater tank or equipment. So do not buy your cistern yet – first, follow the application process outlined below. Funding is limited (rebates are first-come, first-served), so it’s wise to start the process early.

At BARR Plastics, we offer a full line of rainwater storage tanks and collection system components that meet the Sunshine Coast Regional District’s rebate requirements. All tanks are made from high-density polyethylene, UV-stabilized for outdoor use, and safe for potable or non-potable water applications.

Featured Tanks for the SCRD Rebate

• Model 44519 – 4,542 L (1,200 Gallon) Vertical Tank
  View Product
  A compact, durable choice for small-to-medium rainwater systems. Meets the SCRD minimum 4,500 L capacity for a $500 rebate.
• Model 44523 – 11,356 L (3,000 Gallon) Vertical Tank
  View Product
  Ideal for homeowners who want larger capacity and qualify for the $1,000 rebate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Rebate

Applying for the SCRD rainwater harvesting rebate is straightforward if you plan ahead. Below is a step-by-step guide for Sunshine Coast homeowners:

1. Plan Your Rainwater Harvesting System: Begin by evaluating your water needs and site conditions. Choose a location on your property for a cistern (it should be on the same property that has the SCRD water account). Check that your roof catchment area is at least 20 m² (about 215 ft²), since this is a requirement for eligibility. Determine what you want to use the rainwater for (e.g. garden irrigation) and roughly how much water storage you need. Consider the SCRD rebate thresholds: to qualify, you’ll need a tank (or tanks) that add up to at least 4,500 liters of new storage capacity. Planning your system may involve deciding on gutter connections, a base or platform for the tank, and any additional components like first-flush diverters or pumps (note that pumps/piping are not covered by the rebate – only the storage tank itself is rebated).
2. Review Program Eligibility and Terms: Ensure you meet all the SCRD program requirements before applying. Key points to check:
   
   • You must be a residential property owner with an SCRD water utilities account (the program is for those on the regional water system).
   • Pre-approval is mandatory: you must submit an application and get approved before buying your cistern. (This cannot be stressed enough – purchases made before approval won’t qualify for a rebate.)
   • Only the cistern (tank) cost is rebated, not other materials or installation labor.
     You’ll need to install the cistern on the property tied to your water account, within the timeline given (90 days after approval – more on that below).
   • Funds are limited, so rebates are first-come, first-served until the annual budget is used up. Applying early in the year might be beneficial.
   • If you have already received a $500 rainwater rebate in a past year, you may still be eligible for an additional rebate (up to another $500) for expanding your storage, up to the $1,000 lifetime max.

   Take a moment to read the SCRD’s program terms and conditions and best practices guide (available on their website) to fully understand the requirements. This will help ensure your planned system meets all guidelines.

3. Choose an Eligible Tank and Get a Quote: With your plan in mind, select a rainwater storage tank that fits the program criteria and your property’s needs. BARR Plastics carries a range of eligible water tanks that meet the size requirements for the SCRD rebate. Two popular options in stock are:

   
   

   • 44519 – 4,542 L (1,200 Gallon) Vertical Water Tank: A durable above-ground polyethylene cistern that just exceeds the 4,500 L minimum volume for the $500 rebate. This tank is a great choice for moderate rainwater use (about 1200 US gallons capacity). It’s a black, algae-resistant tank designed for water storage. Dimensions: ~72 inches in diameter and 78–80 inches tall (fits in many yard spaces). Part #44519 is readily available at BARR Plastics (Abbotsford) for pickup or delivery.

     
     

     Figure: A diagram of the 1,200 US gallon (4,542 L) rainwater storage tank (BARR Plastics model 44519). This tank meets the SCRD’s minimum size for a $500 rebate. It is an aboveground vertical tank, roughly 6 feet wide by 6.5 feet tall, suitable for capturing roof runoff.

   • 44523 – 11,356 L (3,000 Gallon) Vertical Water Tank: A much larger above-ground tank, ideal if you want to maximize storage and qualify for the higher $1,000 rebate tier. With over 11,000 liters capacity (3000 US gallons), this tank comfortably exceeds the 9,000 L threshold. Part #44523 is a heavy-duty polyethylene tank designed for large-volume rainwater collection (approximately 95″ in diameter and 107″ tall). BARR Plastics keeps this 3,000-gallon model in stock as well.

     
     

     Figure: The 3,000 US gallon (11,356 L) water storage tank (BARR Plastics model 44523) is an example of a cistern that exceeds the SCRD’s 9,000 L requirement for a $1,000 rebate. This large tank provides ample rainwater storage for extensive garden or household use.

   In addition to these two models, BARR offers many other tank sizes and options – from smaller rain barrels to even larger tanks, and both aboveground or belowground solutions. The key is to choose one or multiple tanks that give you at least 4,500 L of new storage capacity on your property. If you're unsure what size or type of tank suits your needs, BARR’s team can assist you in selecting the right tank. We recommend requesting a quote from BARR Plastics for the tank and any accessories you might need. A written quote will provide a clear cost breakdown and can be useful for your SCRD pre-approval application (to demonstrate your intended purchase). BARR can provide a “tight quote”, meaning a detailed, itemized quotation for the exact tank model and delivery, so you know the total cost upfront. Getting this quote not only helps you budget for the project, but you can also include it or reference it in your application if required.

4. Submit the Pre-Approval Application: Now that you have a plan (and likely a quote for your tank), it's time to apply for the rebate before buying anything. Download the SCRD Rainwater Harvesting Pre-Approval Application Form (available on the SCRD website). Fill out the form with all required details. You will need to provide:

   
   
   • Your contact and property information (to verify you’re an SCRD water customer).
   • A description of the planned rainwater harvesting system. Describe the key components: e.g. “Installing one 1,200-gallon aboveground cistern to collect rainwater from main house roof for garden irrigation, including first-flush diverter and pump.” Mention the tank size/capacity (and model, if known, such as the BARR tank code or Norwesco model number) and how it will be installed/used.
   • “Before” photos of your site. The SCRD requires photos showing your roof catchment area and the intended location of the cistern before installation. For example, take a picture of the side of your house (including the roof and downspout area) where you plan to put the tank. It’s helpful to include a reference object (a person, ladder, or meter stick) in the photos to give a sense of scale. Make sure the area in the photo is clearly identifiable, since later you’ll need "after" photos from the same angle.
   • Optional supporting documents: You can attach the quote from BARR or product information for the tank if you like, to strengthen your application’s description. While not explicitly required, this can demonstrate the capacity and specifications of the tank you plan to purchase.

   Submit the completed pre-approval application to the SCRD (contact details are on the form; typically you can email it to infrastructure@scrd.ca or deliver it in person). Remember, do this before buying your tank. The SCRD will not approve rebates for already-purchased systems, so wait for the green light from them first.

5. Await Approval and Purchase Your Tank: After you send in your application, the SCRD will review it to ensure you meet the eligibility and that funds are available. This approval process is usually quick – about 1 to 3 business days in typical cases (it may take longer if application volume is high). Once approved, you will receive an approval letter or email from the SCRD confirming your rebate pre-approval amount (either $500 or $1,000, depending on your planned storage volume). The SCRD will reserve that rebate amount for you at this point.

   
   

   With the approval in hand, it’s time to proceed with your project:

   
   
   • Purchase your rainwater tank and equipment. Contact BARR Plastics to order the tank you chose (if you haven’t already). They have your quote on file and can finalize the sale, arrange pickup or delivery, and answer any last-minute questions. Make sure to get an itemized receipt or invoice – you’ll need proof of purchase that shows the cistern cost separately for the rebate claim.
   
   
   • Install the rainwater harvesting system. You can install it yourself if you’re comfortable, or hire a contractor. The SCRD allows either the homeowner or a hired contractor to perform the installation. Set up the tank per best practices (e.g., on a level, firm base), connect your gutters or rainwater inflow, and set up any pumps or hoses for distributing the water. This step includes making sure all plumbing to the tank (inlet, overflow, etc.) is done correctly.
   
   
   • Timeline: You have 90 days from the date of your approval to complete the installation and submit your rebate claim. Mark this deadline on your calendar and try not to delay purchasing or installing. If unforeseen issues arise, contact the SCRD – but generally, the expectation is that three months is sufficient to get the system in place.

6. Submit Your Rebate Claim: With the system installed and working, the final step is to claim your rebate so you can get that money back. The SCRD’s approval letter will usually include a Rebate Claim Form (or you can download it). Fill out the claim form and prepare the required supporting documents:

   • Proof of payment: Attach itemized receipts or paid invoices showing the purchase of the cistern (and any related materials). The receipt should clearly indicate the cost of the tank itself, separate from other costs. For instance, if your invoice includes a pump or installation kit, circle or highlight the tank’s line item.
   
   
   • "After" photos: Take clear photographs of your installed rainwater system, including the cistern and the catchment area (roof) it’s connected to. Try to take these photos from the same spots as your "before" photos so it's easy to see the improvement. Ensure the tank, piping, and any related equipment are visible. The SCRD will compare these with your before photos to confirm the installation.
   
   
   • Completed claim form: Make sure you’ve filled in all sections of the rebate claim form, including your pre-approval reference/approval number if one was given.
   
   

   Submit the claim form and documentation to the SCRD (either via email or mail/in-person as specified on the form). Do this within 90 days of your approval letter (the sooner, the better). The SCRD will review your submission and, if everything is in order, process your rebate. You can expect to receive your rebate check (up to the approved amount) within a few weeks – SCRD notes it may take around four weeks for the cheque to be mailed out.

   
   

   Congratulations – you’ve not only secured a rebate, but you now have a functional rainwater harvesting system! Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having an extra water source for your outdoor needs, and the satisfaction of contributing to sustainable water use on the Sunshine Coast.

How to reach BARR Plastics: We welcome you to contact us for personalized assistance at any stage of your project. You can call us toll-free at 1-800-665-4499 or email us at info@barrplastics.com. Our team will be glad to answer your questions, provide recommendations, and help you get the right equipment for the SCRD rebate program. Additionally, you can visit our facility in Abbotsford (31192 South Fraser Way) if you wish to see the tanks in person – we’re open 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. We have helped many customers navigate rebate programs and would be happy to walk you through the process.