Since the jurisdiction (like most) had interconnected water and sewage, she wouldn’t be able to fully disconnect from the water utility unless she installed a septic tank or other approved sewage disposal method.

However, she was still using the local sewage system without paying for the costs. Speronis took her case to court, and the judge ruled it wasn’t illegal to use off-grid solar and water.

I say “mostly” because she was still using the city’s sewage disposal system. Here’s what happened in the Speronis case: A woman mainly living off-grid had her home condemned and was evicted. Speronis case (which was often inaccurately reported by the media), it is legal to live off-grid in Florida. ( 23)ĭespite the bad press Florida got regarding the Ms. In many areas, it must be removed by a commercial hauler. However, many homes are still required to be connected to the municipal sewage system.Ĭolorado also has laws about how trash can be removed. They are legal, but only NFS-approved compost toilets may be used. WasteĬomposting toilets are regulated under Colorado law. Only rainwater from rooftops can be collected in a maximum of two rain barrels with a combined capacity of 110 gallons. While rainwater harvesting is legal, the law says it can only be used for non-potable purposes. WaterĬolorado is one of the strictest states in regard to rainwater harvesting laws. There are numerous news reports about people living off-grid being forced to reconnect to the electric utilities. Going off-grid with solar or wind in Colorado state seems to be legal, though many counties and zoning laws require homes to be grid-tied. However, now counties are stricter about giving permits to people living in tiny homes, RVs, or cabins. Many areas had relaxed zoning laws, and many off-grid communities sprung up. With pit privies, you are required to have a contract with a certified pumper.Ĭolorado used to be one of the best states to live off-grid. In a nutshell, the law says that composting, incinerating toilets, and holding tanks can only be used if an approved graywater disposal method is also provided. Compost toilets aren’t explicitly addressed. Permits are required, and specific rules must be followed. Pit toilets and portable toilets may be allowed in some rural regions.

The rules about using water on your property, creating ponds on your property, and diverting water are also very relaxed. It is legal to harvest rainwater in Alabama and is considered a property right. This makes Alabama one of the worst states in the USA for off-grid solar. However, there are no state-mandated policies, so the price is negotiated with the power company. On top of this, Alabama power charges a high (over $5 per kilowatt) fee for using solar! They do offer net metering to sell back excess solar. All Rights Reserved.It appears that disconnecting from the power grid in Alabama is illegal.

Going Off Grid by S.J.D. Peterson