Rain Barrel Rebate Program

The Municipality of the County of Antigonish is launching a Rain Barrel Rebate Program as a pilot initiative for 2026 to support water conservation and sustainable outdoor water use. This program will help residents collect and reuse rainwater, reducing demand on private and municipal water sources while helping households prepare for increasingly dry summer conditions.

Why Rain Barrels? Drought conditions are becoming more common, and residents are being asked more frequently to conserve water. Longer dry periods combined with increased summer water use highlight the need for practical, household-level solutions. Rain barrels offer a simple, low-cost way to collect and reuse rainwater for:

Gardening

Lawn care

Outdoor play

Pets

By participating in the program, residents can take an active role in protecting local water resources and preparing for future conservation needs.

Rebate Details Rebate Amount: $50 per rain barrel Limit: One (1) rebate per household Program Type: First-come, first-served Funding: Available until allocated funds are exhausted or until September 30, 2026 Program Launch: Applications accepted starting June 15, 2026

This pilot program will be evaluated in fall/winter 2026 to determine if it will continue or expand in future years.

Eligibility To qualify, applicants must:

Be a resident of the Municipality of the County of Antigonish

Own or rent a property within County boundaries

Purchase a new rain barrel as of April 1, 2026

Required Documentation Applicants must provide:

Proof of purchase (i.e. a receipt)

Receipt must have the vendor/ store name, purchase date, item listed and the purchase price.

Application Form (see below)

Terms and Conditions The Municipality of the County of Antigonish is not responsible for the product or quality of the rain barrel an individual chooses to purchase. The Municipality of the County of Antigonish is not responsible for the installation, maintenance, filling, or operation of the rain barrel. Rebates will issued via cheque to be mailed or picked up.

Budget Implications A total of $5,000 has been allocated through the Sustainable Communities operating budget, supporting up to 100 households. If the program is successful, the Municipality will explore expanding funding and options for 2027–2028.

How to Apply Complete the Rain Barrel Rebate Application Form and submit it along with required documentation to the Municipal Office (285 Beech Hill Road)

You can pick up an application at the Municipal Office or download it here: Rain Barrel Rebate Form

Questions Email Emma Rankin at emma.rankin@antigonishcounty.ca