Every person, residential property owner, and residential property occupant shall comply with the following standards in regards to the use of rain barrels within the village of Glendale Heights.
A. Type And Size:
1. The rain barrel unit or device, whether constructed or manufactured, may vary in style, but shall function as a collector of rooftop rainwater for reuse purposes; and
2. The unit or device shall have a secure lid; and
3. The unit or device's opening shall be protected by a double screen; and
4. The capacity or volume of the unit or device shall not exceed sixty five (65) gallons; and
5. The unit or device shall have an overflow hose affixed to the upper portion of it to allow release of excess water; and
6. The exterior of the unit or device shall not be painted or decorated in such a manner that is inconsistent with the surrounding area or offensive to the general senses of the neighboring properties.
B. Location:
1. The unit or device shall only be allowed upon properties zoned residential or upon properties whose use is consistent with that of a property zoned residential; and
2. The unit or device shall only be located in an interior side yard or the rear yard of a property. A variance obtained pursuant to the provisions of the Glendale Heights zoning ordinance is required to locate a unit or device in any other location upon a property.
C. General Requirements:
1. The unit's or device's overflow hose shall be directed safely away from it, and shall not obstruct or drain upon a neighboring property; and
2. The unit or device may be elevated by a concrete, wood, or brick paver platform, if required. The platform shall not exceed eight inches (8") to twelve inches (12") in height; and
3. The unit or device shall not be connected directly to the gutter. A maximum five inch (5") air gap shall separate the gutter and the unit or device's lid to provide easy access to clean the screening and to prevent ice damming in the event the unit or device is not properly winterized; and
4. Only one unit or device is permitted upon a property. A variance obtained pursuant to the provisions of the Glendale Heights zoning ordinance is required for more than one unit or device. (Ord. 2011-80, 10-20-2011)