Chapter 3 — WATER DIVISION RATES AND REGULATIONS

For the purpose of this chapter, certain words and phrases used in this chapter shall be construed as set forth in this section unless it is apparent from the context that a different meaning is intended.

Wherever in this chapter the words "Water Division" are used or the word "Division" is used, such words shall be deemed to read respectively "Water Department" or "Department" as the context may require.

Wherever in this chapter the word "Superintendent" is used, it shall be deemed to read "Director of the Water Department" or "Director" as the context may require.

Wherever in this chapter the words "Water Charges" are used, such terms shall include charges for rubbish fees imposed by the City on behalf of the rubbish collection contractor pursuant to agreement.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 296, adopted 2-23-66; Ord. 371, adopted 10-13-69; Ord. 813, adopted 2-11-86)

An official identification card shall be carried or worn by all employees who, in line of duty, may be required to enter upon private premises. Every employee, upon ceasing to be employed in the Division, shall surrender and deliver to the proper official all identification cards and credentials of the Division.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Upon presentation of official identification, any employee of the Division, when on official business, shall be allowed free access at all reasonable hours to any premises and associated facilities supplied with City or non-City water within City boundaries. Any employee of the Division shall have free access at all times to inspect utility facilities within City right-ofway and review and use any utility service usage information obtained from such facilities. Inspection under this section shall include, but not be limited to, touching and manipulating utility facilities, including warming up meters torch to purge vapor condensation. Should such access and inspection require the unlocking of utility facilities by an employee or representative of the utilities in question, the facilities shall be unlocked for such purposes by the next business day after notification by the City.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 1259, adopted 5-11-10)

No person, as owner or occupant of any premises and associated facilities within City boundaries supplied with City or non-City water, shall refuse admittance to, or hinder or prevent inspection by an authorized employee of the Division when on official business, and if any person, as owner or occupant of such premises, does so refuse, hinder, or prevent, the water to such premises may be shut off. No owner of any utility facilities within City right-of-way shall refuse admittance to, or hinder or prevent inspection by an authorized employee of the Division when on official business, and if any owner of such utility facilities, does so refuse, hinder, or prevent, the utility company's franchise or other agreement allowing the utility company to operate within the City may be voided.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 1259, adopted 5-11-10)

The Council by resolution may create water service zones within the City and for any area outside the City to which water is served by the City. The water rates to be charged within each of such established water zones shall be established by resolution of the Council, and rates may differ from zone to zone as the Council may determine. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

In case any premises become vacant, the regular minimum rates shall be charged, and no refund or discount shall be made unless the water has been shut off by the Division upon the written request of the one in whose name the water service is rendered or the written request of the owner.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Water furnished to and used by City Departments or served to City buildings shall be at the rates established pursuant to Section 7304 of this chapter. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Each meter shall be read approximately each 60 days, and statements for water charges shall be prepared and presented bimonthly. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Combined readings shall not be used for billing purposes in those cases where a customer is served by more than one meter. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Water charges shall be due and payable upon presentation and shall become delinquent if not paid before the 20th day after the date of mailing. If any account becomes delinquent, the Division may shut off the water to the premises concerned. There shall be a charge as established by City Council Resolution for the turning on of any water service after a shut off by reason of delinquency. Delinquent payments shall be made at the cashier's office at City Hall.

In addition to the other charges set forth in this section, there shall be a charge, as established by City Council Resolution for turning on any water service after shut off by reason of delinquency if such turn on is required before 8:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, or at any time on Holidays, Saturdays or Sundays.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 371, adopted 10-13-69; amended by Ord. 879, adopted 1-10-89)

In addition to any other provisions for the enforcement and collection of any charges provided for in this chapter, if the owner of property has signed an application for water service to the subject property and water has been or is being served to such property pursuant to such application, the water shall be charged against the property to which furnished and against the owner thereof and shall be deemed delinquent at the same time and in the same manner as the next water bill and shall be a lien against the property where furnished. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

No person shall turn on the water serving any premises or cause the water to be turned on after it has been turned off at the curb by the Department. In the event any person does so turn on the water or cause it to be turned on there shall be an additional charge of $10 placed against the service. Service may not be resumed until all delinquent charges, penalty charges, if any, and the additional amount provided for in this section shall have been paid. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Water for construction and miscellaneous uses normally shall be furnished through a temporary service connection. The applicant shall designate the period of time and purpose for which water is to be used. The Department may discontinue the supply and remove its equipment at the expiration of the period so designated. Water supply shall be subject to limitations as to the rate of flow and time of use.

The Department initially will install all the equipment necessary to furnish a temporary water supply and, upon payment of the charges provided for in this section, will move equipment for any subsequent changes in location as requested by the applicant except when the applicant is being furnished water on a flat rate basis and is supplying his own eddy valve.

At the time of the application for service, applicants who are requesting Department equipment to be installed shall make a deposit of $100 as security against loss or damage to equipment and to secure payment of Department charges for the furnishing, installation, removal, inspection, and rental of equipment used.

If the applicant requires more than one temporary service connection requiring Department equipment during the time his deposit is in effect, only the sum of money necessary to make up any reduction in his original $100 deposit shall be required. In case of the non-return of Department equipment, or damages beyond repair, the applicant shall pay a charge of $250 for replacement of the water meter and $50 for replacement of the eddy valve.

In addition to the regular domestic rate for water usage, as specified in Section 7304 of this chapter, or a minimum charge of $15 for each month, the applicant for temporary service from a fire hydrant shall pay the following charges:

• (a) A charge of $15 for the first installation on each job or project and five dollars for all subsequent installations on the same job or project to cover service charges, and the cost of installing and removing equipment to furnish and measure the temporary water supply; and

• (b) Any charges incurred by the Department for repairing equipment furnished by the Department if such equipment is damaged while in the custody of the applicant.

Such charges may be deducted from the deposit.

Where it is impractical to furnish such water through a temporary metered connection, the quantity of water shall be estimated and shall be charged for at the rate of 50 cents per 100 cubic feet. The minimum charge shall be $25 per month.

Service shall be based on the use of 100 cubic feet of water for each of the following construction units, or any portion thereof;

• (1) 1,000 bricklaid (one square foot of surface of a four inch thick wall requires six bricks);

• (2) For settling filled ground or flooding backfill, for each 300 cubic feet of fill; and

• (3) For settling each 400 square feet of fine grade.

If service is to be metered, a meter and eddy valve shall be furnished and installed by the Department in accordance with the provisions of this section. If service is to be on a flat rate basis, an eddy valve shall be used at all times. It shall be at the option of the applicant whether his own or the eddy valve of the Department is used. In all cases the applicant shall control the fire hydrant flow by means of the eddy valve only and shall not operate the main fire hydrant valve except in an emergency.

No person shall make an unauthorized use of a fire hydrant.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 371, adopted 10-13-69)

The Superintendent shall have the power in his discretion to adjust complaints, and in the event of any dispute as to the water rate to be paid by any consumer, he shall determine the same. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

In the event any meter fails to operate properly or to register correctly the water used, the charge for the period during which such meter fails to operate properly or fails to register water shall be based upon the average of the four months of the same period of the prior year by the same user, or, if such a reading is not available, the charge shall be determined by the Superintendent in the manner provided in Section 7313 of this chapter. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Each applicant shall be responsible for the cost of any water lost through leaks or defective lines between the meter and the point of use.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

All shut-off valves shall be installed by and for the use of the Division. Except in the case of an emergency, the consumer shall not use or molest such shut-off valves. The consumer shall install, for his ordinary usage and at his own expense, a shut-off valve on the property side of the meter. Damages resulting from violations of this rule shall be charged to the consumer. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

There shall be a deposit in an amount as established by City Council Resolution with each written request to check a meter for accuracy for meters up to and including two inches (2") in size; for meters over two inches (2") in size the deposit shall equal the amount of the charges as estimated by the Director. In the event of such examination and test of a meter, if the meter shall be found to register over 2% more water, the deposit shall be forfeited and the meter reinstalled. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 371, adopted 10-13-69; Ord. 879, adopted 1-10-89)

For water furnished through fire hydrants, a charge as established by resolution of the Council per hydrant per month shall be made against the Fire Department of the City, which charge shall cover the use of water by the Fire Department through out the corporate limits of the City. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 371, adopted 10-13-69)

Each new user, owner, or tenant of any premises, which premises receives water service from the City and which new user, owner or tenant desires water service from the City, shall notify the City of such desire by mail, phone or in person. Such request for service shall state in whose name the service will be taken, the mailing address, and the service address. Such request for water service shall constitute an agreement on the part of the applicant to pay the stipulated rate for water service at the time and in the manner provided by any applicable ordinance, resolution, or provision of this chapter and to abide by all the service rules and regulations of the Division.

When the request for service is for residential service, three units or less, there shall be no deposit required. If the request for service is for nonresidential or commercial (4 or more residential units on the same meter), a deposit will be required as set forth in Section 7319.1. If the request for service is not made in person, the amount required may be mailed to the City. Such amount of deposit so required shall be received by the City within five days after the time service is requested, or service will be subject to turn-off until such time as the deposit is received. If the applicant is the owner of the property to be served, no such deposit shall be required.

At the termination of any service, such fee shall be returned after there has been deducted therefrom any amount due the City for water services. The Council may adopt by resolution rules and procedures for the refund of such fees prior to the termination of service. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 428, adopted 12-11-72; Ord. 505, adopted 5-25-76; Ord. 870, adopted 8-23-88)

In addition to any deposit required by Section 7319 of this chapter, any water user whose estimated use as determined by the City will exceed 17,000 cubic feet per month, concurrently with the filing of the application, shall make a deposit of $100 or an amount double the estimated average bimonthly billing, whichever amount is greater. Such applicant, after receiving six months' consecutive water service, whose payments for water services are not delinquent, may request a review concerning the deposit, and, if it is determined by the City that the average estimated bimonthly billing is greater than the average bimonthly billing, the amount of the deposit may be reduced, but in no event shall the amount of the deposit be less than $100. Such deposits shall be refunded in the manner set forth in Section 7319.

(Added by Ord. 361, adopted 4-14-69; amended by Ord. 428, adopted 12-11-72)

The Department shall install a service at such location as the applicant requests, subject to approval by the Director. The service shall be installed from the nearest water distribution main to a point as close to the property line as is reasonable, depending upon all applicable conditions, whether such nearest water distribution main is located in a public street, utility right-of-way, or easement. The service line from the distribution main to the meter shall be no less than one inch in diameter. Meters installed on new services shall be no smaller in size than five-eighths inch (5/8") by three-fourth inch (3/4"). The charges for the installation of a service, including tapping and meter services, shall be payable in advance. Such charges shall be established by the Council by resolution.

(Amended by Ord. 296, adopted 2-23-66; Ord. 371, adopted 10-13-69; Ord. 598, adopted 6-26-79)

All water furnished to a consumer shall be through a metered service unless otherwise provided in this chapter or otherwise provided by rules or regulations of the Department.

All water used where a meter is installed shall pass through the meter. No person shall install or cause to be installed or maintained any by-pass or connection around or in the place of the meter. (Amended by Ord. 296, adopted 2-23-66)

In all cases in which water is being served to premises occupied by two or more different and independent consumers of water, which premises are held under the same ownership, the owner of such premises shall provide independent service to the service connection for each such independent consumer; provided, however, if the owner of such premises so served with water shall agree in writing to be responsible for and pay all money due for water used upon such premises, such independent service shall not be required. Should the owner fail or refuse to provide such independent service or fail or refuse to assume responsibility for money due for water used upon such premises, the Department shall, after 30 days notice to the consumer so served and to the owner of such premises or the person in charge thereof, cut off water from such premises until the independent services herein required are installed or the agreement assuming responsibility for the money due for water served to the premises is made as herein provided. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

No service connection shall be made for the purpose of supplying through a common service two or more independent consumers occupying premises held under the same ownership, unless the structures served are on the same lot or the property is what is known as a court, or apartment house, or block covering more than one lot, and then only if the owners of such premises shall agree in writing to pay all charges for water served thereto. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

No water shall be served to two ore more parcels of property separately owned through a common service, except where such service existed prior to October 5, 1965. In the event any present consumer of such a service ceases to use such service, the right to use such common service shall terminate, and in any event, no such common service shall be continued longer than November 4, 1966. The Water Board, upon application being duly made, may grant an extension of time to continue such common service upon such terms and conditions as it may deem reasonable.

Charges for water used on such parcels through a single meter existing on October 5, 1965, shall be based on a bimonthly block rate equal to the bimonthly block rate for a single meter, provided in Section 7304 of this chapter, multiplied by the number of parcels under a separate ownership serviced (i.e., a meter serving two parcels under separate ownership would be charged two minimums, be allowed twice the consumption allowance under the minimum charge, and be required to use twice the amount of water in each step of the rate structure before moving into the next step). Each owner or tenant shall make written application as provided in Section 7319.

A person may not tap, open, or connect with a water main, fire hydrant, pipe, or service which forms a part of the water system of the City, without first obtaining written permission to do so from the Division. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

All meters installed by the Division shall remain at all times the property of the Division and shall be maintained, repaired, and replaced by the Division; provided that adjustments, repairs, or replacements of any meter rendered necessary by negligence, carelessness, or damage by the consumer, or any member of his family or anyone employed by him, shall be paid for by such consumer, to the Division, and in case such bill is not paid, the water shall be shut off until all charges are paid.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

If access to a meter is obstructed in any manner, including the growing of plants or allowing them to grow, the depositing or allowing the deposit of any material, or by the parking of any vehicle, the Division shall give a 15 day notice in writing to remove such obstruction and in the event such obstruction is not removed within such time, the water shall be shut off until such removal is effected.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Whenever a service is installed for private fire protection, a charge shall be made for labor, material, and engineering, plus 15% for overhead, and shall include whenever a proportional meter shall be necessary, the cost of such meter and installing it. Such service shall be used only in case of fire and if it is found that a fire service has been used for any purpose other than in case of fire, the Division shall charge the sum of $25 for such incident of unauthorized use. If unauthorized use of a fire service persists, the Division may discontinue the fire service. The Fire Department of the City shall notify the Superintendent of the date, time, and place of any test made by such Department.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

The City shall have the right at any time to shut off any water by reason of any emergency, for making repairs, modifications, changes, or other work in the water service facilities. In cases of such shut-off, City personnel shall notify all residents, if possible, that the water is being shut off.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

• (a) The purpose of this ordinance is:

  • (1) to protect the public water supply against actual or potential cross-connection by isolating within the premises contamination that may occur because of some undiscovered or unauthorized cross-connection on the premises;

  • (2) to eliminate existing connections between drinking water systems and other sources of water that are not approved as safe and potable for human consumption;

  • (3) to eliminate cross-connections between drinking water systems and sources of contaminations;

  • (4) to prevent the making of cross-connections in the future.

• (b) These regulations are adopted pursuant to the State of California Administrative Code, Title 17 – Public Health entitled "Regulations Relating to Cross-Connections."

• (c) It is unlawful for any person, at any time, to make or maintain or cause to be made or maintained, temporarily or permanently, for any period of time whatsoever, any crossconnection between plumbing pipes or water fixtures being served with water by the City water system and any other source of water supply or to maintain any sanitary fixture or other appurtenances or fixtures which by reason of their construction may cause or allow backflow or water or other substance into the water supply system of the City and/or the service of water pipes or fixtures of any consumer of the City.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 922, adopted 1-8-91)

Air-Gap Separation: The term "air-gap separation" means a physical break between a supply pipe and a receiving vessel. The air-gap shall be at least double the diameter of the supply pipe measured vertically above the top rim of the vessel, in no case less than one inch.

Approved Backflow Prevention Device: The term "approved backflow prevention device" shall mean devices which have passed laboratory and field evaluation tests, performed by a recognized testing organization which has demonstrated their competency to perform such tests to the California Department of Health Services, and which has been approved by California Department of Health Services.

Approved Water Supply: The term "approved water supply" means any water supply whose potability is regulated by a state or local health agency.

Auxiliary Supply: The term "auxiliary supply" means any water supply on or available to the premises other than the approved water supply.

AWWA Standard: The term "AWWA Standard" means an official standard developed and approved by the American Water Works Association (AWWA).

Backflow: The term "backflow" shall mean a flow condition caused by a differential in pressure that causes the flow of water or other liquids, gases, mixtures or substances into the distributing pipes of a potable supply of water from any source or sources other than an approved water supply source. Backsiphonage is one cause of backflow. Back pressure is the other cause.

Contamination: The term "contamination" means a degradation of the quality of the potable water by any foreign substance which creates a hazard to the public health or which may impair the usefulness or quality of the water.

Cross-Connection: The term "cross-connection" as used in this chapter means any unprotected actual or potential connection between a potable water system used to supply water for drinking purposes and any source or system containing unapproved water or a substance that is not or cannot be approved as safe, wholesome, and potable. By-pass arrangement, jumper connections, removable sections, swivel or changeover devices, or other devices through which backflow could occur shall be considered to be cross-connections.

Double Check Valve Assembly: The term "double check valve assembly" means an assembly of at least two independently acting check valves including tightly closing shut-off valves on each side of the check valve assembly and test cocks available for testing the watertightness of each check valve.

Health Agency: The term "health agency" means the California Department of Health Services, or the local health agency.

Local Health Agency: The term "local health agency" means the county or City health authority.

Person: The term "person' means an individual, firm, corporation, company, association, partnership, municipality, public utility, or other public body or institution.

Premises: The term "premises" means any and all areas on a customer's property which are served or have the potential to be served by the public water system.

Public Water System: The term "public water system" means the City water system or a system or the provision of piped water to the public for human consumption which has five or more service connections or regularly serves an average of 25 individuals daily at least 60 days out of the year.

Reclaimed Water: The term "reclaimed water" means a wastewater which as a result of treatment is suitable for uses other than potable use.

Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Device: The term "reduced pressure principle backflow prevention device" means a device incorporating two or more check valves and an automatically operating differential relief valve located between the two checks, a tightly closing shut-off valve on each side of the check valve assembly, and equipped with necessary test cocks for testing.

Service Connection: The term "service connection" refers to the point of connection of a user's piping to the water supplier's facilities.

Water Supplier: The term "water supplier" means the City or the person who owns or operates the approved water supply system.

Water User: The term "water user" means any person obtaining water from an approved water supply system.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 922, adopted 1-8-91)

• (a) General Provisions.

  • (1) Unprotected cross-connections with the public water supply are prohibited.

  • (2) Whenever backflow protection has been found necessary by the City, the City will require the water user to install an approved backflow prevention device by and at his/her expense for continued services or before a new service will be granted.

  • (3) Whenever backflow protection has been found necessary on a water supply line entering a water user's premises by the City, then any and all water supply lines from the City's mains entering such premises, buildings or structures shall be protected by an approved backflow prevention device. The type of device to be installed will be in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.

(b) Where Protection is Required.

• (1) Each service connection from the City water system for supplying water to premises having an auxiliary water supply shall be protected against backflow of water from the premises into the public water system unless the auxiliary water supply is accepted as an additional source by the City and is approved by the public health agency having jurisdiction.

• (2) Each service connection from the City water system for supplying water to any premises on which any substance is handled in such fashion as may allow its entry into the water system shall be protected against backflow of the water from the premises into the public system. This shall include the handling of process waters and waters originating from the City water system which have been subjected to deterioration in sanitary quality.

• (3) Backflow prevention devices shall be installed on the service connection to any premises having (1) internal cross-connections that cannot be permanently corrected and controlled to the satisfaction of the State or local health department and the City, or (2) intricate plumbing and piping arrangements or where entry to all portions of the premises is not readily accessible for inspection purposes, making it impracticable or impossible to ascertain whether or not cross-connections exist.

• (c) Type of Protection Required. The type of protection that shall be provided to prevent backflow into the approved water supply shall be commensurate with the degree of hazard that exists on the consumer's premises. The type of protective device that may be required (listing in an increasing level of protection) includes: Double Check Valve Assembly (DC), Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Device (RP), and Air-gap separation (AG). The water user may choose a higher level of protection than required by the City. The minimum types of backflow protection which are required to protect the approved water supply at the user's water connection to premises with varying degrees of hazard are described in Table I. Situations which are not covered in Table I shall be evaluated on a case by case basis and the appropriate backflow protection shall be determined by the City or health agency.

• TABLE I TYPE OF BACKFLOW PROTECTION REQUIRED Minimum Type of

• Degree of Hazard Backflow Prevention (2) Premises where there is an unapproved auxiliary water RP supply and there are not interconnections with the public water system. A DC may be provided in lieu of an RP if approved by the Health Agency and the City.

• (c) Fire Protection Systems (1) Premises where the fire system is directly supplied from DC the public water system and there is an approved auxiliary water supply on or to the premises (not interconnected).

• (2) Premises where the fire system is supplied from the AG public water system and interconnected with an unapproved auxiliary water supply. An RP may be approved in lieu of an AG if approved by the Health Agency and the City.

• (3) Premises where the fire system is supplied from the DC public water system and where either elevated storage tanks or fire pumps which take suction from the private reservoirs or tanks are used.

• (4) Premises where entry is restricted so that inspections for RP cross- connections cannot be made with sufficient frequency or at sufficiently short notice to assure that cross-connections do not exist.

• (5) Premises where there is repeated history of crossRP connections being established or re-established.

• (d) Two or more services supply water from different street mains to the same building, structure, or premises through which an interstreet main flow may occur shall have double check valve on each water service to be located adjacent to and on the property side of the respective meters.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; amended by Ord. 922, adopted 1-8-91)

• (a) Approved Backflow Prevention Devices.

  • (1) Only backflow prevention devices which have been approved by the City shall be acceptable for installation by a water user connected to the City's potable water system.

  • (2) The City will provide, upon request, to any affected customer, a list of approved backflow prevention devices.

• (b) Backflow Prevention Device Installation.

  • (1) Backflow prevention devices shall be installed in a manner prescribed in Section 7603, Title 17 of the California Administrative Code. Location of the devices should be as close as practical to the user's connection. The City shall have the final authority in determining the required location of a backflow prevention device.

    • (a) Air-Gap Separation (AG) – The air-gap separation shall be located on the user's side of and as close to the service connection as is practical. All piping from the service connection to the receiving tank shall be above grade and be entirely visible. No water use shall be provided from any point between the service connection and the air-gap separation. The water inlet piping shall terminate a distance of at least two pipe diameters of the supply inlet; but in no case less than one inch above the overflow rim of the receiving tank.

    • (b) Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Device (RP) – The approved reduced pressure principal backflow prevention device shall be installed on the user's side of and as close to the service connection as is practical. The device shall be installed a minimum of 12 inches above grade and not more than 36 inches above grade measured from the bottom of the device and with a minimum of 12 inches side clearance. The device shall be installed so that it is readily accessible for maintenance and testing. Water supplied from any point between the service connection and the RP device shall be protected in a manner approved by the City.

    • (c) Double Check Valve Assembly (DC) – The approved double check valve assembly shall be located as close as practical to the user's connection and shall be installed above grade, and in a manner where it is readily accessible for testing and maintenance.

• (c) Backflow Prevention Device Testing and Maintenance.

  • (1) The owners of any premises on which, or on account of which, backflow prevention devices are installed, shall have the devices tested by a person who has demonstrated their competency in testing of these devices to the City. Backflow prevention devices must be tested at least annually and immediately after installation, relocation or repair. The City may require a more frequent testing schedule if it is determined to be necessary. No device shall be placed back in service unless it is functioning as required. A report in a form acceptable to the City shall be filed with the City each time a device is tested, relocated or repaired.

These devices shall be serviced, overhauled or replaced whenever they are found to be defective and all costs of testing, repair and maintenance shall be borne by the water user.

• (2) The City will supply affected water users with a list of persons acceptable to the City to test backflow prevention devices. The City will notify affected customers by mail when annual testing of a device is needed and also supply users with the necessary form which must be filled out each time a device is tested or repaired.

(d) Backflow Prevention Device Removal.

• (1) Approval must be obtained from the City before a backflow prevention device is removed, relocated or replaced.

• (a) Removal: The use of a device may be discontinued and the device removed from service upon presentation of sufficient evidence to the City to verify that a hazard no longer exists or is not likely to be created in the future;

• (b) Relocation: A device may be relocated following confirmation by the City that the relocation will continue to provide the required protection and satisfy installation requirements. A retest will be required following the relocation of the device;

• (c) Repair: A device may be removed for repair, provided the water use is either discontinued until repair is completed and the device is returned to service, or the service connection is equipped with other backflow protection approved by the City. A retest will be required following the repair of the device;

• (d) Replacement: A device may be removed and replaced provided the water use is discontinued until the replacement device is installed. All replacement devices must be approved by the City and must be commensurate with the degree of hazard involved.

(Added by Ord. 922, adopted 1-8-91)

At each premises where it is necessary, in the opinion of the City, a user supervisor with qualifications acceptable to the City shall be designated by and at the expense of the water user. This user supervisor shall be responsible for the monitoring of the backflow prevention devices and for avoidance of cross-connections. In the event of contamination or pollution of the drinking water system due to a cross-connection on the premises, the City shall be promptly notified by the user supervisor so that appropriate measures may be taken to overcome the contamination. The water user shall inform the City of the user supervisor's identity on, as a minimum, an annual basis and whenever a change occurs. (Added by Ord. 922, adopted 1-8-91)

• (a) Water System Survey.

  • (1) The City shall review all requests for new services to determine if backflow protection is needed. Plans and specifications must be submitted to the City upon request for review of possible cross-connection hazards as a condition of service for new service connections. If it is determined that a backflow prevention device is necessary to protect the public water system, the required device must be installed before service will be granted.

  • (2) The City may require an on-premises inspection or reinspection to evaluate crossconnection hazards. Any customer who cannot or will not allow an on-premises inspection of their piping system shall be required to install the backflow prevention device the City considers necessary.

  • (3) The City may, at its discretion, require a reinspection for cross-connection hazards of any premises to which it serves water. The City will transmit a written notice requesting an inspection appointment to each affected water user. Any customer which cannot or will not allow an on-premises inspection of their piping system shall be required to install the backflow prevention device the City considers necessary.

(b) Customer Notification – Device Installation.

• (1) The City will notify the water user of the survey findings, listing corrective action to be taken if required. A period of 60 days will be given to complete all connective action required including installation of backflow prevention.

• (2) A second notice will be sent to each water user who does not take the required corrective action prescribed in the first notice within the 60 day period allowed. The second notice will give the water user a two week period to take the required corrective action. If no action is taken within the two week period, the City may terminate water service to the affected water user until the required corrective actions are taken.

• (c) Customer Notification – Testing and Maintenance.

  • (1) The City will notify each affected water user when it is time for the backflow prevention device installed on their service connection to be tested. This written notice shall give the water user 30 days to have the device tested and supply the water user with the necessary form to be completed and resubmitted to the City.

  • (2) A second notice shall be sent to each water user which does not have his/her backflow prevention device tested as prescribed in the first notice within the 30 day period allowed. The second notice will give the water user a two week period to have his/her backflow prevention device tested. If no action is taken within the two week period the City may terminate water service to the affected water user until the subject device is tested.

(Added by Ord. 922, adopted 1-8-91)

• (a) General. When the City encounters water uses that represent a clear and immediate hazard to the potable water supply that cannot be immediately abated, the City shall institute the procedure for discontinuing the City water service.

• (b) Basis for Termination. Conditions or water uses that create a basis for water service termination shall include, but are not limited to, the following items:

  • (1) Refusal to install a required backflow prevention device.

  • (2) Refusal to test a backflow prevention device.

  • (3) Refusal to repair a faulty backflow prevention device.

  • (4) Refusal to replace a faulty backflow prevention device.

  • (5) Direct or indirect connection between the public water system and a sewer line.

  • (6) Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the public water system and a system or equipment containing contaminants.

  • (7) Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the public water system and an auxiliary water system.

  • (8) A situation which presents an immediate health hazard to the public water system.

• (c) Water Service Termination Procedures.

  • (1) For conditions 1, 2, 3, or 4, the City will terminate service to a customer's premises after two written notices have been sent specifying the corrective action needed and the time period in which it must be done. If no action is taken within the allowed time period, water service may be terminated.

  • (2) For conditions 5, 6, 7, or 8, the City will take the following steps:

    • (a) Written notice of City's intent to terminate water service shall be sent to user by prepaid United States mail which shall be deposited in the United States mail not less than 15 calendar days prior to termination, except that such notice shall not be required where the City determines, in its sole discretion, that the violation constitutes an immediate health hazard to the public water system.

• (b) Terminate water supply and lock service valve. The water service will remain inactive until correction of violations has been approved by the City.

• (Added by Ord. 922, adopted 1-8-91)

In the event property is vacant or Division equipment installed is no longer needed, such equipment may be removed at any time upon order of the Superintendent. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

Every consumer shall at all times maintain in good repair all water pipes, faucets, plumbing fixtures, and other water appliances to prevent the waste of water. Where any consumer willfully wastes water in any manner, the water may be shut off until wasteful practices have been discontinued or until repairs have been made to the satisfaction of the Superintendent. (Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)

An applicant applying for water service where no water main nor a main of sufficient size exists, before such application is accepted, shall deposit with the Water Department a water main installation charge equal to the estimated construction costs of the main extension required to serve the applicant. Such estimate shall be made by the Water Department. Such cost estimate shall be based on the total front footage of the property to be served, together with a pro rata share of the additional costs incurred in making the necessary extensions and connections to the existing Water Department distribution system.

If, upon completion of such installation, the actual cost is greater than the amount deposited, the applicant shall pay the difference to the Water Department. If, however, the actual cost is less than the amount deposited, the difference shall be refunded by the Water Department to the applicant.

(Amended by Ord. 334, adopted 8-14-67)

All extensions of distribution mains from the Water Department's existing distribution system required for water service to an applicant shall be made under the provisions of this rule unless specific authority is first obtained from the Water Board to deviate therefrom. (Amended by Ord. 334, adopted 8-14-67)

When, by reason of remoteness from the City's water distribution system, an applicant is requested by the Water Department to pay an amount of money in excess of that required to cover water main installation charges or connection charges for the applicant property, the City shall enter into a refund agreement providing for the refund of that money which the Water Department may collect as water main connection charges from subsequent consumers connecting to the water main. Such refund agreement shall be in effect for a period of 10 years from the date the main is placed in service after which time the City shall be released of any further obligation to make refunds to the applicant. (Added by Ord. 316, adopted 10-25-66)

Whenever the construction of a distribution main or the extension of a distribution main is made or required pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, the following provisions shall apply:

• (a) Deposit. The construction of any main extension shall not be commenced by the Water Department until the applicant has deposited the estimated construction cost with the City. At the discretion of the Water Director, the applicant may be required to construct the specified main extension.

• (b) Location and Ownership. All main extensions constructed pursuant to the provisions of this section shall be constructed in dedicated street rights-of-way, City public utility easements, or City water line easements. All such facilities constructed shall be the sole property of the City.

• (c) Standards of Construction. In the event the main extension is constructed by the applicant, all construction done shall be in accordance with the standards and specifications of the Water Department and by a construction agency acceptable to it.

• (d) Service to be Permanent. An applicant, for the purposes of this rule, shall be a property owner, developer, or subdivider who has given satisfactory evidence that service will be reasonably permanent to the property.

• (e) Size of Facilities. If the Water Department should elect to construct facilities of greater capacity than required by the service requested, the City shall assume any additional cost involved as determined by the Water Department.

(Amended by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65; Ord. 334, adopted 8-14-67; Ord. 371, adopted 10-13-69)

In the event any water is shut off or service is discontinued pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, or in order to carry out the terms, intent, objectives, and purposes of this chapter, or when necessary to service the system, its facilities or any portion of the system or its facilities, or to protect the public health, interest, safety, and general welfare, or in the interest of the consumers of water provided by the Division, there shall be no liability on the part of the City, its officers, agents, servants, and employees for any damages, claims of damages, loss of business, loss of profits, inconvenience, or interference with water service of whatsoever character or whatsoever reason.

(Added by Ord. 286, adopted 10-5-65)