Rain Barrel Giveaway
The Office of Green Infrastructure is giving away 300 free rain barrels to Boston residents to promote green infrastructure, reduce flooding, improve water quality and help residents save money on their water bill!
Sign-ups for the 2026 Spring Rain Barrel Giveaway are now open!
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Questions? Email green.infrastructure@boston.gov
Giveaway Rules & Timeline
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Must be a resident of the City of Boston
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Must pick up rain barrel in Boston
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One rain barrel per residential unit
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One rain barrel per resident per calendar year
If you have a disability that prevents you from moving the 20-pound barrel, please email us: green.infrastructure@boston.gov
February/March: Sign-ups
May: Winners announced
May/June: Barrel pick-up
Follow us on social media (@BosGreenIn) to stay informed about the giveaway!
This project is funded by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
What Are Rain Barrels
Rain barrels are Green Infrastructure features that:
- Reduce flooding by capturing rainwater from roofs and gutters
- Improve water quality by keeping pollutants out of our waterways
- Provide an alternative source of water during droughts
- Help residents save money on their water bill
Why get a rain barrel? The average household spends 40% of its summer water usage outdoors. Rain barrels can help you save on your water bill, reduce stormwater runoff and prevent pollutants like oil and debris from entering our waterways. The market price for a 50 gallon rain barrel ranges from $119-160. Rain barrels are an essential green infrastructure feature that helps create a more sustainable, resilient city.
Did you know, during Summer 2023, the City of Boston received over 22 inches of rain in just three months. Conversely, in 2022 the City experienced drought, receiving only 0.77 inches during the month of July. The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events is expected to keep increasing, threatening both more floods and more droughts. Rain barrels can be part of the solution!
