A cooling tower reduces the temperature in the air. It works by exposing water to fan-forced air. This process releases a mist of water into the air. 
Cooling towers can be on:
- Commercial buildings
 - Industrial buildings
 - Residential buildings
 
They are different from water tanks, which store water for:
- Drinking
 - Washing dishes
 - Showering
 
Buildings must register their cooling towers and cooling tower systems. Buildings that fail to register their towers may be subject to a fine.
Each year, building owners must certify they are following cooling tower regulations. The deadline is November 1. 
Learn more about cooling tower requirements.