Reedley Municipal Code Ch. 1 Water System Regulations

The Municipal waterworks shall be known as the Reedley City Water Department, and shall be under the direct control and supervision of the Public Works Director. Water supply and service will be provided by the city to customers within the limits of the City of Reedley, or as otherwise approved, in accordance with this chapter and other applicable regulations governing the service as adopted and amended from time to time by the City Council or applicable regulating agencies. The City will deliver water to its customers at the city's point of responsibility to the customer's system (“customer's system” as defined in 8-1-13-4 A4).

A. Non-Liability Of City: Except for meeting applicable state water quality standards, the city is not responsible and will not be liable to any customer for any loss, damage, or inconvenience to any customer by reason of water quality; water shortage or insufficiency; any suspension, interruption, discontinuation, or shut off of water service; or any increase or decrease of water pressure.

B. Service Interruption: The city reserves the right at any and all times to shut off water delivery for any purpose, including but not limited to maintenance, emergency repairs, public health or safety, water conservation, or improvements to the system. As reasonably practical, the city will attempt to provide advance notice by personal contact, mail, or door hanger, of any interruption of service to all water users affected by the interruption. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914; amd. Ord. 2019-009, 12-10-2019)

The Public Works Director shall act as collector of water rates, and any other monies due the City for materials and supplies furnished by said City in connection with said Water Department. It shall be the duty of the Public Works Director to keep or cause to be kept a proper set of books showing the names of all consumers and connections made, and the amounts received from collections in each case and what the same are for; the amount of arrearages, if any, and such other matters as may properly pertain to said department. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914; amd. 2007 Code)

Any buildings within the city limits of the City of Reedley, including but not limited to all residential, industrial, educational, governmental, and commercial buildings, located on property adjacent to a water main, or in a block through which a water main extends, must apply for connection and connect to the city water system as provided herein, except as otherwise provided in subsection C below.

A. Connection To System: Every building permit issued either for the construction of a new building or for remodeling of an existing building, if the remodeling cost is twenty five percent (25%) or more of the current assessed valuation, shall require the building to be connected to the City water system. If the parcel being built on does not have water service, the building permit shall require the extension of a water main across the entire frontage of the property being improved and the installation of water service to serve the parcel. The person applying for the building permit shall install the water main and water service, or shall cause it to be installed, to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.

B. Required Connection: All buildings currently served by a well or other private systems, situated within the City, which have water mains available shall connect to the City water system within ninety (90) days after date of official notice to do so if one or more of the following applies:

1. The current well or private system servicing the building(s) has systemically failed.

2. The current well or private system servicing the building(s) does not test in conformance with required health and safety standards, as determined by the Director of Public Works and/or the appropriate County or State health official.

Connections to the City water system are all at the expense of the owner of said property. At any time, a property owner may elect to establish a City water system connection in accordance with section 8-1-7 of this chapter. At the time of connection, no well or private system connection may continue to serve the living areas or building(s) on-site. However, an existing well or private system may still be utilized for the purposes of agricultural irrigation alone, in accordance with section 8-1-9 of this chapter, barring that such system tests in conformance with required health and safety standards, as determined by the Director of Public Works and/or the appropriate County or State health official.

For purposes of this subsection, "available" shall mean having a water main in an easement or roadway abutting the parcel.

C. Relief From Water Service Connection Requirements: When the City Council determines that special circumstances make connection to the city water system an unreasonable hardship on a property owner, the City Council may, by resolution, suspend the requirement to connect to the city water system for a specific time or for the time the special circumstances exist. Additionally, a connection may be delayed or exempted by the Public Works Director on the grounds that the building is unoccupied and not used by any person(s) and no human needs are generated therein. (Ord. 2018-009, 1-8-2019; amd. Ord. 2019-009, 12-10-2019)

A. Application; Deposit For Municipal Utility Service: Before utility service shall be supplied to any premises, the owner or occupant of the property shall make a written application to the city for utility service on a form provided by and containing such information as may be required by the city. Applicants for utility service shall pay the applicable application fee established by city resolution. Any applicant for utility service who does not own the real property for which utility service is to be supplied shall pay a deposit equal to three (3) times the estimated average total monthly bill prior to establishing an account. Any property owner applicant for utility service may be required to pay a deposit equal to three (3) times the estimated average total monthly bill if the city's finance director or authorized designee deems their creditworthiness to be a financial risk for the city. The deposit shall be retained by the city until the applicant has terminated the utility account. At that time, if the fees and charges for utility services have been paid in full, the deposit shall be refunded to the applicant. Otherwise, all outstanding fees and charges will be deducted from the deposit and the remaining deposit balance, if any, shall be refunded to the applicant.

B. Applicant Liable: All charges for municipal utility service shall be considered as against the person or persons making the application for municipal utility service referred to in subsection A of this section.

C. Location Requirements: No application will be approved where the pipes to be connected do not meet applicable city standards. (Ord. 2014-004, 8-12-2014)

A. Rates: Rates and compensation due the city for water service shall be that which the city council may by resolution determine, and all sums due said city by any consumer for water service, material or supplies, shall be due and payable at the office of the public works director.

B. Each Dwelling Separate: Each separate house or dwelling owned by one person shall be charged as one customer when tenanted.

C. Time Of Charges: Charges shall commence from the time when water is first turned on. But for separate periods, if less than a month the charge shall be prorated.

D. Discontinue Service: The charge for water shall continue and be paid until written notice of a desire to discontinue, signed by the owner of the property or his agent, shall be personally served on the public works director. Such notice shall be acknowledged by the signature of the public works director and returned to the owner at his request. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914)

E. Service Fee: A service fee amount established by resolution of the city council will be assessed on all accounts that are processed for delinquent shutoff as provided in subsection 8-1-10A of this chapter. (Ord. 95-009, 6-13-1995)

F. Rates To Vacant Premises: Water rates will be charged for all vacant premises until the public works director has been notified, in writing, of the discontinuance of the use of the water and requested the service connection to be shut off. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914)

All water supplied to customers shall be measured through water meters. Water meters installed must be of the same brand and model used by the city unless a compatible brand or model is approved by the Public Works Director or City Engineer, and the meter and specific size of the meter must be approved by the City Engineer before purchase or installation. Water meters shall be located at or near the customer property line but not located on the customer's property unless approved by the City Engineer or Public Works Director. The proposed location of the water meter must be approved by the Public Works Director or City Engineer prior to installation. The customer or developer responsible for installing the meter is responsible for all costs associated with the approval, purchase, and installation of the water meter.

A. Installation: Meters shall be installed behind the curb or within a public utility easement. Exact location of meter installation shall be approved by the Public Works Director or City Engineer prior to installation. Meters shall be owned by the city and be replaced at its expense after the payment of the charges established therefor. Any person causing damage to a meter such that it must be replaced or repaired shall be responsible for reimbursing the city the cost to replace or repair the meter. No rent or other charge will be paid by the city for a meter or other facilities, including housings and connections, located on the premises of the applicant. All meters will be sealed by the city at the time of installation, and no seal shall be altered or broken except by an authorized city employee or designee.

B. Relocation: Meters moved for the convenience of the customer will be relocated at the customer's expense and only under the authorization of the Public Works Director or City Engineer. Meters moved to protect the city's property will be moved at the city's expense.

C. Non-Registering Meters: If a meter is found to not be registering, the charge for services to the premises shall be at the minimum monthly rate or shall be based on the minimum monthly rate plus estimated consumption if previous consumption information is available. Such estimates shall be made from a previous consumption for a comparable period or by such other method as is determined by the City Water Department, and its decision shall be final.

D. Water Meters Within Gated Or Private Community: The city shall be responsible for the reading and maintenance of any water meter located within a gated or private community. All other water infrastructure located within the private or gated community including, without limitation, all water piping, valves, and hydrants beginning at the point of connection to the city's water distribution main shall be the sole responsibility of the customer(s). (Ord. 639, 5-5-1981; amd. Ord. 2019-009, 12-10-2019)

A. One Service Connection: Only one house or dwelling shall be allowed to be connected with any one service connection.

B. Individual Responsibility: Each consumer must keep his own service pipe, valves and faucets in order, free from leakage and capable of withstanding the unusual pressure to which the waterworks will be subjected at times of fire.

C. Direct Connection Prohibited: It shall be unlawful for any consumer to lay or connect any water pipe or hose from any lot, premises or dwelling to or with the water service connection pipes laid in any adjoining premises or dwelling, owned by another consumer, for the purpose of obtaining city water thereby, or to permit or to assist any other consumer to make such connection.

D. Size Of Connection: No water will be furnished any consumer through a larger service connection than one inch (1") unless special privilege is granted such person by the public works director, and then only on special restrictions. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914)

E. Separate Service For New Parcels: All new parcels to be created shall be served with water by the extension of water mains completely across the frontage of each parcel and the installation of a separate service to each parcel. All work to be performed by the subdivider shall be done to the satisfaction of the city engineer. (Ord. 753, 6-25-1991)

A. Application Restrictive: It shall be unlawful for any person to use water for any other purposes than those stated in the application. Should any person desire additional service or fixtures, or to apply the water to a new purpose, a new application shall be made. Any person failing to make such new application shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

B. Limit Use: If for any reason it shall be deemed necessary, the maximum amount of water to be used daily by any consumer shall be limited, notice stating the maximum amount of water that such consumer may use shall be served on such consumer or his agent, and from and after service of such notice, it shall be unlawful for any person to use a greater amount of water than stated in said notice.

C. Use During Fire: In case of fire, all mains are to cease the ordinary use of water until signal is given that the fire is under control, and at such times the water system is to be under the control of the fire chief or person acting under his authority. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914)

A. Irrigation Use: It shall be unlawful for any person to sprinkle or irrigate any lawn without a sprinkler or nozzle.

B. Exception: Water for irrigation will not be furnished (except upon permission of the public works director) for that purpose alone, and only in connection with domestic use. No irrigation will be permitted in an open ditch.

C. Permission To Sprinkle: It shall be unlawful for any person to use the city water to sprinkle any street or alley, unless permission is obtained from the public works director. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914)

A. Authority To Inspect: The Public Works Director, City Engineer, Director of Finance, or any other authorized representative of the city shall have the right, during normal working hours, to enter upon any premises receiving city water service for the purpose of reading, inspecting, testing, checking, repairing, maintaining, or replacing the city’s water meters and water system components, and insuring compliance with the city’s laws and regulations pertaining to water and water services.

The Public Works Director may, without notice, shut off water to any consumer or premises, if the water shall be disposed or used in violation of any law, or if the water bills shall be and remain unpaid for a period of more than six (6) days.

B. Access To Hydrants: It shall be unlawful for any person to place on or about, or near any hydrant, gate valve or stopcock connected with the municipal waterworks system, any rubbish, building material or other substance so as to prevent the free and easy access to such hydrant, gate valve or stopcock at any time. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914; amd. Ord. 2019-009, 12-10-2019)

It shall be unlawful for any person, unless under the direction and authorization of the Public Works Director or authorized city representative to do, commit, or assist in committing any of the following acts:

A. To open or close any control valve or fire hydrant connected with the city's water system or lift or remove the cover of any gate valve or shutoffs thereof.

B. To interfere with, destroy, deface, injure or force open any gate or door, or destroy, injure or deface any part of any well, engine house, reservoir, standpipe, tank, building, appurtenances, fences, trees, shrubs, fixtures or property connected or pertaining to the city water system.

C. To go upon or ascend the stairway or steps of any elevated water storage tank owned or leased by the city.

D. To make or permit to be made any connection with a main or service pipes of the city water system, or to turn on or use the water of said system without first obtaining a permit for such use.

E. To remove, interfere, or tamper with any water meter that is part of the city's water system.

F. To turn on the water supply to any building or to any supply pipe where the supply has been turned off. Only authorized city staff may turn water back on after the service has been shut off because of the nonpayment of any charge, termination of the water service account, or because of the violation of any city rule, regulation, ordinance, resolution or policy. (Ord. 30, 6-23-1914; amd. Ord. 2019-009, 12-10-2019)

A. Approved Water Conservation Restriction Level: Notwithstanding any other provision(s) of this code, at least one of the following four (4) levels of water conservation restrictions shall apply at all times. The selected level shall be determined by resolution of the city council based upon a recommendation by the public works director. The current level and any change in level shall be communicated to the public by reasonable means to ensure compliance, including, but not limited to, posting on the city's website, publishing in a local newspaper, and notice included in water bills. All persons using water supplied by the city of Reedley shall comply with the following mandatory conservation measures as imposed by the city council.

B. Level 1 Water Conservation Restrictions: During the time in which level 1 restrictions are imposed the following mandatory conservation measures shall apply:

1. Waste Of Water Prohibition: The following uses of water are defined as "waste of water" and are hereby prohibited except as otherwise authorized:

a. The use of water which allows excess water to run off to a gutter, ditch, or drain. Every water user is deemed to have his water distribution lines and facilities under his control at all times and to know the manner and extent of his water use and excess runoff.

b. The excessive use, loss, or escape of water through breaks, leaks or malfunctions in the water user's plumbing or distribution facilities for any period of time after such escape of water should reasonably have been discovered and corrected. It shall be presumed that a period of forty eight (48) hours after discovery is a reasonable time within which to correct such a leak or break.

c. The washing of vehicles, building exteriors, sidewalks, driveways, parking areas, tennis courts, patios, or other paved areas without the use of a positive shutoff nozzle on the hose, which results in excessive runoff.

2. Landscape Irrigation:

a. Installation Of Lawn Sprinkling Systems: Lawn sprinkling system/devices shall be properly designed, installed, maintained and operated to prevent overuse of water.

b. Modifying Duration Of Watering: The "water customer" shall modify watering duration and frequency schedules so that the sprinkler's application does not exceed the irrigated area's absorption rate and generate surface runoff.

c. Hours Of Irrigation: All outdoor irrigation of lawns, gardens, landscaped areas, plants, trees, shrubs, or other greenscape areas shall occur only between the hours of twelve o'clock (12:00) midnight and eight o'clock (8:00) A.M., and between eight o'clock (8:00) P.M. and twelve o'clock (12:00) midnight on designated days during the summer watering schedule (see subsection B2d of this section). During the winter watering schedule (see subsection B2e of this section), water customers may water anytime during the designated day.

d. Summer Watering Schedule (April 2 Through October 31): All dwellings or establishments with even numbered street addresses (addresses ending with 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) shall water only on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Dwellings or establishments with odd numbered addresses (addresses ending with 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) shall water only on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. There shall be no watering on Mondays.

e. Winter Watering Schedule (November 1 Through April 1): All dwellings or establishments shall water only on Wednesday or Sunday. Specific irrigation times shall not be enforced. During rain events, water customers should turn automatic sprinkler timers off or place them on pause.

3. Exceptions:

a. A written application for exception to this section shall be submitted to the public works director. Exemptions may be granted if:

(1) Compliance with this section would cause unnecessary and undue hardship to the applicant, including, but not limited to, adverse economic impacts such as loss of production or jobs; or

(2) Compliance with this section would cause a condition adversely affecting the health, sanitation, fire protection, or safety of the applicant or the public.

b. Commercial nurseries, public parks, cemeteries, and schools are exempt from subsections B2c through B2e of this section but will be requested to curtail all nonessential water use.

C. Level 2 Water Conservation Restrictions: During any time in which level 2 restrictions are imposed the following mandatory conservation measures shall apply in addition to all nonconflicting level 1 restrictions:

1. Paved Surfaces: Washing paved surfaces is prohibited, including, but not limited to, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, tennis courts, or patios, except when it is necessary to alleviate safety or sanitation hazards.

2. Two Day Summer Watering Schedule: Two (2) day summer watering schedule (April 2 through October 31) for all residential and commercial landscape irrigation. All landscape irrigation watering in the city shall be limited to two (2) days per week as follows: dwellings, establishments, and properties with even numbered street addresses (addresses ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) shall water only on Wednesdays and Sundays. Dwellings, establishments, and properties with odd numbered addresses (addresses ending with 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) shall water only on Tuesdays and Saturdays. There shall be no outdoor landscape irrigation watering on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

3. Outdoor Landscape Irrigation: All outdoor landscape irrigation watering shall be limited to using sprinklers for no more than ten (10) minutes per watering station. This provision does not apply to landscape irrigation systems using drip/micro-irrigation systems.

4. Hours Of Irrigation: All outdoor irrigation of lawns, gardens, landscaped areas, plants, trees, shrubs, or other greenscape areas shall occur between the hours of twelve o'clock (12:00) midnight and eight o'clock (8:00) A.M. and between eight o'clock (8:00) P.M. and twelve o'clock (12:00) midnight on designated days during both the summer and winter watering schedules.

5. Outdoor Watering Of Landscaped Areas: Any outdoor watering of landscaped areas, including trees and shrubs located on residential and commercial properties, which are not irrigated by an automated landscape irrigation system shall be watered only by using a bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff nozzle, or low volume nonspray irrigation.

6. Measurable Rain Event: No outdoor watering allowed within forty eight (48) hours after a measurable rain event.

7. Rain Capture Systems: Rain capture systems are encouraged and any associated building permits for such systems will be expedited and permit fees waived. An administrative processing fee will still be applicable.

D. Level 3 Water Conservation Restrictions: During any time in which level 3 restrictions are imposed the following mandatory conservation measures shall apply in addition to all nonconflicting level 1 and level 2 restrictions:

1. The filling or refilling of ornamental lakes or ponds shall be prohibited, except to the extent needed to sustain aquatic life, provided that such animals are of significant value and have been actively managed within the water feature prior to declaration of a drought response level under this section.

2. The washing of vehicles is prohibited, except at commercial car washes that recirculate water, or by high pressure/low volume wash systems.

3. All leaks detected in landscape irrigation systems or water systems shall be repaired within forty eight (48) hours of notification by the city of Reedley unless other arrangements are made with the public works director.

4. No new potable water service shall be provided, no new temporary meters or permanent meters shall be provided, and no statements of immediate ability to serve or provide potable water service (such as, will serve letters, certificates or letters of availability) shall be issued, except under the following circumstances:

a. A valid, unexpired building permit has been issued for the project; or

b. The project is necessary to protect the public's health, safety, and welfare; or

c. The applicant provides a substantial evidence of an enforceable commitment that water demands for the project will be offset prior to the provision of a new meter(s) to the satisfaction of the city of Reedley.

This provision shall not be construed to preclude the resetting or turn on of meters to provide continuation of water service or to restore service that has been interrupted for a period of one year or less.

E. Level 4 Water Conservation Restrictions: During any time in which level 4 restrictions are imposed the following mandatory conservation measures shall apply in addition to all nonconflicting level 1, level 2, and level 3 restrictions:

1. All landscape irrigation shall be prohibited, except crops and landscape products of commercial growers and nurseries. This restriction shall not apply to the following categories of use(s) unless the city of Reedley has determined that recycled water is available and may be lawfully applied to the use(s):

a. Maintenance of trees and shrubs that are watered on the same schedule set forth in subsection C4 of this section by using a bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff nozzle, or low volume nonspray irrigation;

b. Maintenance of existing landscaping necessary for fire protection as specified by the fire marshal of the local fire protection agency having jurisdiction over the property to be irrigated;

c. Maintenance of existing landscaping for erosion control;

d. Maintenance of plant materials identified to be rare or essential to the well being of rare animals;

e. Maintenance of landscaping within active public parks and playing fields, daycare centers, school grounds, cemeteries, and golf course greens, provided that such irrigation does not exceed two (2) days per week according to the schedule established under subsection C2 of this section;

f. Watering of livestock; and

g. Public works projects and activity irrigated environmental mitigation projects.

2. All leaks detected in landscape irrigation systems or water systems shall be repaired within twenty four (24) hours of notification by the city of Reedley unless other arrangements are made with the public works director.

F. Request For Exemption From Water Conservation Restrictions: Unless expressly excepted as noted in this section, exemption from applicable requirements, restrictions, and/or prohibitions under this section shall be subject to the approval of the public works director after receipt of a written request for exemption, and may be granted only if the public works director determines either of the following:

1. Compliance with this section would cause unnecessary and undue hardship to the applicant, including, but not limited to, adverse economic impacts such as loss of production or jobs; or

2. Compliance with this section would cause a condition adversely affecting the health, sanitation, fire protection, or safety of the applicant or the public.

G. Enforcement; Penalties: It is one of the objectives of the city council of the city of Reedley that the citizens of Reedley are encouraged to voluntarily comply with this section. Therefore, in furtherance of said objective, the enforcement of this section shall be as follows:

1. First violation: A verbal warning of such violation shall be issued by public works department personnel or a designated official of the city of Reedley. Documentation shall be noted on the work order or complaint form retained by the city.

2. Second violation: A written notice of such violation shall be issued by public works department personnel or a designated official of the city of Reedley police department personnel.

3. Third violation: A written notice of such violation accompanied by an administrative citation and fine of two hundred dollars ($200.00) in accordance with subsection 1-12-8A of this code.

4. Fourth and subsequent violations: A written notice of such violation accompanied by an administrative citation and fine of five hundred dollars ($500.00) in accordance with subsection 1-12-8A of this code.

5. Fifth and subsequent violations: A written notice of such violation accompanied by an administrative citation and fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) in accordance with subsection 1-12-8A of this code. Additionally, the notice may require termination of all water service to the customer. Water service termination shall be at the discretion of the public works director. Restoration of water service after termination shall be at the discretion of the public works director. Restoration of water service after termination shall be contingent on an agreement by the customer to adhere to the provisions of this section. Any and all costs incurred by the city to enforce termination of water service shall be billed to and paid by the water customer.

6. Determination of number of violations: Violations of any provisions of this section within any twelve (12) month period shall be deemed a next violation in the progressive violation schedule described above. (Ord. 2015-003, 6-9-2015)

A. It is the intent of this section to recognize that there are varying degrees of hazard to the city's potable water system, and it is the intent to apply the principle that the degree of protection should be commensurate with the degree of hazard.

B. The purpose of this section is:

1. To protect the public potable water supply of the city of Reedley from the possibility of contamination or pollution by isolating within its customers' internal distribution system(s) such contaminants or pollutants which could backflow or back siphon into the public water system; and

2. To promote the elimination and control of existing cross connections, actual or potential, between its customers' in plant potable water system(s) and nonpotable water system(s), plumbing fixtures, and industrial piping systems; and

3. To provide for the continuing program of cross connection control and certification training, which will effectively prevent the contamination or pollution of all potable water systems. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

AWWA: The American Waterworks Association.

AIR GAP (AG): The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank, plumbing fixture, or other device and the flood level rim of said vessel. An approved air gap shall be at least double the diameter of the supply pipe, and in no case less than one inch (1") with sidewalls no less than one and one-half inches (11/2"). When an air gap is used at the service connection to prevent the contamination or pollution of a public potable water system, an emergency bypass shall be installed around the air gap system and an approved, reduced pressure principle device shall be installed in the bypass system.

APPROVED: Accepted by the director, or his designated representative, as meeting an applicable specification stated or cited in this chapter, and suitable for the proposed use.

APPROVED ATMOSPHERIC VACUUM BREAKER (AVB) DEVICE: An assembly of bronze body, poppet of molded plastic for use on cold water only, device shall have one only upstream, mainline resilient seat shutoff valve and device shall be installed not less than six inches (6") above the highest outlet on the line.

APPROVED BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY: An assembly that has been manufactured in full conformance with the standards established by the American Waterworks Association (AWWA) entitled: AWWA C506-69, "Standards For Reduced Pressure Principle And Double Check Valve Backflow Prevention Assembly", and have met completely the laboratory and field performance specifications of the Foundation Of Cross Connection Control And Hydraulic Research Of The University Of Southern California (established by the most current specifications of backflow prevention devices).

APPROVED DOUBLE CHECK VALVE (DCV) ASSEMBLY: An assembly of two (2) wye pattern bronze or ductile iron body independently operating internally loaded approved check valves with tightly closing resilient seated gate valves or full port ball valve test cocks for the testing of each check valve. These devices shall be installed a minimum of twelve inches (12") and thirty six inches (36") maximum, aboveground with belowground installation with approval of the city, twelve inches (12") clearance each side and accessible for in line maintenance and testing.

APPROVED DOUBLE DETECTOR CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLY (DDC): An assembly of two (2) wye pattern bodies independently operating internally spring loaded center stem guided type check valves, all internal metals shall be of similar type, bodies shall be of ductile iron, fifteen (15) to twenty (20) mils epoxy coated internally with standard one hundred twenty five (125) pound flanges, two (2) mainline resilient seat shutoff gate valves, four (4) full port ball valve test cocks. Bypass shall consist of one approved double check valve, static pressure drop across the bypass double check valve assembly shall be two (2) psi less than the mainline check valve assembly.

APPROVED PRESSURE VACUUM BREAKER (PVB) DEVICE: An assembly consisting of an all bronze body, canopy, air relief poppet, one internally spring loaded check valve, two (2) mainline resilient seat gate valves or full port ball valves and two (2) ball valve test cocks. Device shall be designed for continuous pressure usage, minimum head loss and serviceable in line. Device shall be installed not less than twelve inches (12") above the highest piping or outlet downstream with twelve inches (12") side clearance.

APPROVED REDUCED PRESSURE PRINCIPLE (RPP) DEVICE: An assembly of two (2) wye pattern bronze or ductile iron body internally spring loaded, center stem guide check valves, internal parts shall be of stainless steel, body fifteen (15) to twenty (20) mils epoxy coated internally, with one differential diaphragm relief valve which shall automatically reduce the pressure in the zone between the two (2) check valves. The device shall operate to maintain the pressure in the zone between the two (2) check valves at a level less than the pressure on the public water supply side of the device. During normal flow, and at cessation of normal flow, the pressure between the two (2) check valves shall be at least two (2) psi less than the upstream supply pressure. In case of leakage of either of the check valves, the differential relief valve shall operate to maintain this reduced pressure by discharging to the atmosphere. The device shall have two (2) mainline shutoff resilient seat gate valves, or full ported ball valves and four (4) ball valve test cocks. These devices shall be installed a minimum of twelve inches (12") and a maximum of thirty six inches (36") aboveground only and twelve inches (12") side clearance.

AUXILIARY WATER SUPPLY: Any water supply on or available to the premises other than the city public potable water supply. These auxiliary waters may include water from another purveyor's public potable water supply or any natural source(s) such as a well, spring, irrigation canal or pipeline, etc., or "used waters" or "industrial fluids". These waters may be polluted or contaminated or they may be objectionable and constitute an unacceptable water source over which the water purveyor does not have control.

BACKFLOW: A flow condition, induced by a differential in pressure that causes the flow of water or other liquids into the distribution pipes of the city water supply from any source other than its intended source.

BACKFLOW PREVENTER: A device or means designed to prevent backflow or backsiphonage.

BACKPRESSURE: The resulting backflow or contamination, polluted, or otherwise unacceptable quality water from a plumbing fixture or other customer source(s) into the city water supply system due to a greater pressure within the customer's water system.

BACKSIPHONAGE: The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures, or substances into the distributing pipes of the city water supply system from any source other than its intended source caused by the sudden reduction or pressure in the city water supply system.

CONTAMINATION: An impairment of the quality of the city water by sewage, industrial fluids or waste liquids, compounds, or other materials to a degree which creates an actual hazard to the public health through poisoning or through the spread of disease.

CONTROLLED CROSS CONNECTION: A connection between a potable water system and a nonpotable water system with an approved backflow prevention device properly installed that will continuously afford the protection commensurate with the degree of hazard.

CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL BY CONTAINMENT: The installation of an approved backflow prevention device at the water service connection to any customer's premises where it is physically and economically infeasible to find and permanently eliminate or control all actual or potential cross connections within the customer's water system; or it shall mean the installation of an approved backflow prevention device on the service line leading to and supplying a portion of a customer's water system where there are actual or potential cross connections which cannot be effectively eliminated or controlled at the point of cross connection.

CUSTOMER: The water user served by the city water system.

CUSTOMER'S WATER SYSTEM: The piping and parts used to convey water supplied by the city water system throughout the customer's premises, including those parts, facilities, and improvements described in section 8-1-13-4A.

DEGREE OF HAZARD: The evaluation of the potential risk to public health and the adverse effect of hazard upon the city water system as defined herein.

Health Hazard: Any condition, device, or practice in the water supply system and its operation which could create, or in the judgment of the director may create, a danger to the health and well being of the water consumer.

Industrial Fluids System: Any system containing fluid or solution which may be chemically, biologically, or otherwise contaminated or polluted in a form of concentration such as would constitute a health, water system, pollution or plumbing hazard if introduced into an approved water supply. This may include, but not be limited to, polluted or contaminated waters; all types of process waters and "used waters" originating from the city water system which may have deteriorated in sanitary quality; chemicals in fluid form; plating acids; alkalis; circulated cooling tower waters, open or closed, that may be chemically or biologically treated or stabilized with toxic substances; contaminated natural waters such as form wells, springs, streams, irrigation canals; oils; gases; glycerin; caustic and other acid solutions which may be used for industrial and firefighting purposes.

Plumbing Hazard: A cross connection in a consumer's potable water system that has not been properly protected by a vacuum breaker, air gap separation, or backflow prevention device. The term "plumbing hazard" includes, but is not limited to, cross connections to toilets, sinks, lavatories, wash trays, washing machines or lawn sprinkling systems. Unprotected plumbing type cross connections shall be considered to be a health hazard.

Pollution Hazard: An actual or potential threat to the physical properties of the water system or to the potability of the public or consumer's potable water system, but which would constitute a nuisance or be aesthetically objectionable or could cause damage to the system or its appurtenances, but would not be dangerous to public health.

System Hazard: An actual or potential threat of severe damage to the physical properties of the city water system or the consumer's potable water system or of a pollution or contamination which would have a protracted effect on the quality of the potable water in the system.

DIRECTOR: The director of the public works department of the city of Reedley, or his designee.

FIRE MARSHAL: The fire chief of the city of Reedley or state fire marshal, or their designee.

IDENTIFICATION: Each assembly shall have the following information securely attached or embossed on each unit:

A. Manufacturer's name;

B. Size;

C. Model number;

D. Direction of flow, by arrow;

E. Device serial number;

F. Maximum working water pressure (MWWP);

G. Maximum working water temperature (MWWT).

INSTALLATION: Each assembly shall be installed a minimum of twelve inches (12") and a maximum of thirty six inches (36") aboveground, twelve inches (12") side clearance from any structure and as close to the city's meter location as may be possible.

NFPA: The National Fire Protection Association.

POLLUTION: The presence of any foreign substance (organic, inorganic, or biological) in the water which tends to degrade its quality so as to constitute a hazard or impair the usefulness or quality of the water to a degree which does not create an actual hazard to the public health, but which does adversely and unreasonably affect such waters for domestic use.

WATER, NONPOTABLE: "Nonpotable water" means water which is not safe for human consumption or which is of questionable potability.

WATER, POTABLE: "Potable water" means any water which, according to recognized standards, is safe for human consumption.

WATER PURVEYOR, PUBLIC; MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM: "Public water purveyor" or "city water system" means the city of Reedley public water system.

WATER SERVICE CONNECTION: The terminal end of a service connection from the city potable water system; i.e., where the water purveyor loses jurisdiction and sanitary control over the water at its point of delivery to the customer's water system. If a meter is installed at the end of the service connection, then the "service connection" shall mean the downstream end of the meter. There should be no unprotected takeoffs from the service line ahead of any meter or backflow prevention device located at the point of delivery to the customer's water system. Service connection shall also include water service connection from a fire hydrant and all other temporary or emergency water service connections from the city potable water system.

WATER, USED: "Used water" means any water supplied by the city potable water system to a customer's water system after it has passed through the point of delivery and is no longer under the sanitary control of the city. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009; amd. Ord. 2019-009, 12-10-2019)

The director of public works shall be responsible for the protection of the public potable water system from contamination or pollution due to the backflow or backsiphonage of contaminants or pollutants through the water service connection.

If, in the judgment of the director, an approved backflow prevention device is required at the city's water service connection to any customer's premises, for the safety of the water system, the director shall give notice in writing to said customer to install such an approved backflow prevention assembly at each service connection to his premises. The customer shall immediately install such approved device or devices at his own expense; and failure, refusal, or inability on the part of the customer to install said device or devices immediately shall constitute grounds for discontinuing water service to the premises until such devices have been properly installed. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

A. Water System:

1. The water system shall be considered as made up of two (2) parts: the city system and the customer system.

2. The city system shall consist of the source facilities and the distribution system, and shall include all those facilities of the water system under complete control of the city, from the source of supply up to the point where the customer's system begins. The city system shall include all components of the facilities utilized in the production, treatment, storage and the delivery of water to the distribution system.

3. The distribution system shall include the network of conduits used for the delivery of water from the source to the customer's system.

4. The customer's system shall include any and all water infrastructure on the customer's side of the city's water meter. In the event that a city water meter does not exist, the customer's system shall begin at the point of connection to the city's water main pipe. Within a gated or private community all water infrastructure, with the exception of the city's water meter, located within the private property or gated community including all water piping, valves, and hydrants, beginning at the point of connection to the city's water distribution main shall be the sole responsibility of the customer(s).

5. Private Fire Service: The customer assumes full responsibility for the operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of any private fire system from the connection point to the city's water main pipe.

B. Policy:

1. No water service connection to any premises shall be installed or maintained by the city water department unless the water supply is protected as required by state laws and this chapter. Service of water to any premises shall be discontinued by the director if a backflow prevention device required by state law or this chapter is not installed, tested or maintained, or if it is found that a backflow prevention device has been removed, bypassed, or if an unprotected cross connection exists on the premises. Service will not be restored until such conditions or defects are corrected.

2. The customer's system shall be open for inspection at all reasonable times to authorized representatives of the director, city building inspector and city fire marshal to determine whether cross connections or other structural or sanitary hazards, including violations of this chapter, exist. When such a condition becomes known, the director shall deny or immediately discontinue service to their premises by providing for a physical break in the service line until the customer has corrected the condition(s) in conformance with state and city regulations relating to this chapter, plumbing and water supplies and the regulations adopted pursuant thereto.

3. An approved backflow prevention device shall also be installed on each service line to a customer's water system at or near the property line or immediately outside the building being served; but in all cases before the first branch line leading off the service line. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009; amd. Ord. 2019-009, 12-10-2019)

A. In the case of any premises where there is an auxiliary water supply which is not otherwise subject to the provisions of this chapter, the city water system shall be protected by an approved air gap (AG) separation or an approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention device.

B. In the case of any premises where there is any water or substance that would be objectionable, but not hazardous to public health if introduced into the public water system, the public water system shall be protected by an approved double check valve (DCV) assembly.

C. In the case of any premises where there is any material dangerous to health, which is handled in such a fashion as to create an actual or potential hazard to the city water system, the city water system shall be protected by an approved air gap (AG) separation or an approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention device, i.e., sewage treatment plants, pumping stations, chemical plants, hospitals and mortuaries.

D. In the case of any premises where there are "uncontrolled" cross connections, either actual or potential, the city water system shall be protected by an approved air gap (AG) separation or an approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention device at the service connection.

E. In the case of any premises where, because of security requirements or other prohibitions or restrictions, it is impossible or impracticable to make a complete in plant cross connection survey, the city water system shall be protected against backflow or backsiphonage from the premises by the installation of an approved backflow prevention device in the service line. In this case, maximum protection will be required; that is, an approved air gap (AG) separation or a reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention device shall be installed in each service to the premises.

F. In the case of premises having any internal cross connection that cannot be permanently corrected and controlled, or 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 dangerous cross connections exist, the city water system shall be protected against backflow from the premises by installing an approved air gap (AG) separation or reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention device in the service. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

The following uses, and other uses as designated by the director, shall be required to install a backflow prevention device of the type indicated as a minimum as follows:

(Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

The following are the minimum backflow devices required to satisfy containment requirements and shall apply to those fire protection systems connected to the city water system (see AWWA M-14 and NFPA).

The director may require additional protection for the city water system if he deems it necessary due to potential contamination.

A. Class I: Direct connection from city water mains only; no pumps, tanks, or reservoirs; no physical connection from other water supplies; no antifreeze or other additives of any kind; all sprinkler drains discharging to atmosphere, dry wells, or other safe outlets.

B. Class II: Same as class I, except that booster pumps may be installed in the connections from the street mains (booster pumps do not affect the potability of the system; it is necessary, however, to avoid drafting so much water that pressure in the water main is reduced below 20 psi).

C. Device - class I and class II: No protection required with approval of the director.

D. Class III: Direct connection from city water supply main plus one or more of the following: elevated storage tanks; fire pumps taking suction from aboveground, covered reservoirs or tanks; and pressure tanks (all storage facilities are filled or connected to the city water only, the water in the tanks to be maintained in a potable condition).

E. Device - class III: Approved double check valve (DCV) installed as outlined in class I and class II.

F. Class IV: Directly supplied from city water mains similar to classes I and II, and with an auxiliary water supply on or available to the premises; or an auxiliary supply located within one thousand five hundred feet (1,500') of the pumper connection.

G. Device - class IV: Reduced pressure principle (RPP) device or double check valve (DCV); the valve shall be aboveground installation and as near the city water system as possible.

H. Class V: Directly supplied from city water mains, and interconnected with auxiliary supplies, such as: pumps taking suction from reservoirs exposed to contamination, or rivers and ponds; wells, mills or other industrial water systems; or where antifreeze or other additives are used.

I. Device - class V: Reduced pressure principle (RPP) device installed aboveground and as near the city water system as possible.

J. Class VI: Combined industrial and fire protection systems applied from the city water mains only, with or without gravity storage or pump suction tanks.

K. Device - class VI: Protection device would be determined after fire marshal and director had made a complete survey of the fire protection requirements of the premises. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

When water users are found that pose a clear and immediate hazard to the city water supply and these hazards cannot be immediately abated, the shutoff procedures should be initiated. Conditions requiring water shutoff shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

A. Refusal to test backflow prevention device.

B. Refusal to repair or replace faulty backflow prevention device.

C. Direct or indirect connection between the city water system and a sewer system.

D. Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the city water system and a system or equipment containing toxic chemicals or sewage.

E. Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the city water system and auxiliary water system.

F. Unprotected direct connection between the city water system and nonpotable nonpressure system.

G. Refusals to correct violations. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

When it becomes necessary to shut off a user's water, the following steps shall be followed:

A. The director shall determine the degree of hazard to public health (see definition of "degree of hazard" in section 8-1-13-2 of this chapter).

B. If it is determined to be an immediate public health hazard:

1. Immediately discontinue user's service;

2. Verbally notify the user;

3. Follow up with a certified letter of corrections to be taken prior to service being restored;

4. If degree is high hazard, immediate notification to state and county health departments. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

Any backflow prevention device required in this chapter shall be of a model and size approved by the director.

Final approval of any assembly or system proposed for installation under the terms of this chapter shall be evidenced by a "certificate of approval" issued by an approved testing laboratory certifying full compliance with said AWWA standards and FCCC & HR specifications. The following testing laboratory has been qualified by the director to test and certify backflow preventers:

Foundation for Cross-Connection Control & Hydraulic Research

University of Southern California, University Park

Los Angeles, CA 90007

Testing laboratories other than the laboratory listed above will be added to an approved list as they are qualified by the director. Backflow preventers which may be subject to backpressure or backsiphonage that have been fully tested and have been granted a certificate of approval by the qualified laboratory and are listed on the laboratory's current list of "approved devices" may be used without further test or qualifications. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

Prior to the installation of any backflow prevention device between the public water system and the owner's facility, the owner or contractor shall make application and receive approval from the director. Application forms are available from the public works department and the building and planning department. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

It shall be the duty of the director at any premises where backflow prevention assemblies are installed to have a certified inspection and operational test made at least once per year. In those instances where the director deems the hazard to be great enough, he may require certified testing and inspections at more frequent intervals. These inspections and tests may be at the expense of the water user and shall be performed by the city's water service department's certified personnel, or by a certified tester approved by the director. It shall be the duty of the director to see that these timely tests are made. The customer user shall be notified by the director in advance when the tests are to be undertaken so that he or his representative may witness the tests if it is so desired. Those devices found to be defective shall be repaired, overhauled, or replaced at the expense of the customer user. Records of such tests, repairs, and overhaul shall be kept by the public works department. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

A. No person shall be qualified to inspect and maintain backflow prevention devices unless his qualifications have been established by AWWA and to the satisfaction of the director as hereinafter required. To determine the qualifications of any person to inspect and maintain backflow prevention devices, the director shall have the authority to conduct additional examinations as he may deem necessary. Upon successful completion of such examination and such training as the director shall prescribe, that person must receive a certificate of competence from the AWWA verifying he is qualified to inspect, test and maintain backflow prevention devices. Every person, after receiving a certificate of competence, shall be issued such identification as the director shall deem appropriate and such identification shall be kept in the immediate possession of every person holding a certificate of competence while said person is inspecting or maintaining any backflow prevention device in the city.

B. Every person holding a "certificate of competence" issued under the provisions of this section shall be required to renew the certificate every three (3) years. Reexamination may be waived at the discretion of the director.

C. Every person receiving a "certificate of competence" under the provisions of this section shall be responsible for the competency and accuracy of all inspections and maintenance performed by him on any backflow prevention device.

D. Any person issued a "certificate of competence" who violates or fails to comply with any of the provisions of this section or willingly falsifies inspection or maintenance reports submitted to the director shall have the certificate immediately revoked, and shall not be considered for recertification for a period of two (2) years. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

All amendments as may be necessary by title 17 of the California Code of Regulations, American Waterworks Association (AWWA) and the director, or rates, fees and compensation to be charged and collected by the city for services shall be reviewed, revised and established by resolution of the city council. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

The director shall have the authority to immediately discontinue service to any premises where cross connections or other hazards to the water system are found to exist, and shall not again render service to said premises until such conditions are eliminated in accordance with this section 8-1-13. Any consumer who wilfully violates any of the provisions of this section 8-1-13, or alters, bypasses or renders inoperative any backflow prevention device installed under the provisions of this section 8-1-13 shall, in addition to immediate discontinuance of water service, be deemed guilty of an infraction and upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to the penalties prescribed by section 1-4-1 of this code. (Ord. 2009-02, 7-28-2009)

A. Provisions: The provisions of the most current model water efficient landscaping ordinance, as published by the California department of water resources, pursuant to the California water conservation in landscaping act 1 , shall apply within the city of Reedley commencing on January 1, 2010. The provisions of the model ordinance shall apply until such time as the city may adopt an ordinance at least as effective in conserving water as the model ordinance, with appropriate findings. A copy of the most current version of the model water efficient landscaping ordinance shall be retained on file in the offices of the city planner and city clerk at all times.

B. Enforcement; Penalties: A violation of the provisions of the model ordinance shall be deemed a violation of this code subject to the same enforcement proceedings and penalties as any other violation of this code. (Ord. 2010-01, 1-26-2010)