Santa Fe Springs Municipal Code Ch. 53 Water

The City Manager shall have charge of the supervision and administration of the water service furnished by the city. The City Manager shall prescribe, from time to time, as he shall deem necessary or desirable, additional rules and regulations, and amendments, thereof, relating to conditions of service, deposit requirements, the application, administration and interpretation of rates, and to the sale of water by the city, and of products, commodities and service incidental thereto and the charges to be made therefor. Such rules and regulations shall be of general application, not inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter.

('64 Code, § 23-1; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) The city will endeavor to maintain such pressure as recommended by the National Board of Fire Underwriters. In the event any consumer deems that pressures are inadequate; the consumer shall furnish at his own expense whatever devices are necessary to boost the pressure for his own premises. In the event water pressures are in excess of any consumer's normal requirements, it shall be the responsibility of such water consumer to install such devices on his own premises to protect his plumbing and/or to reduce the pressure for his normal needs.

(B) All persons applying for or receiving water service shall be required to accept and shall be deemed to have consented to all provisions of this chapter and to such conditions of pressure and service as are provided by the system at the location served, and to hold the city harmless from any damages arising out of low pressure or high pressure conditions or interruptions of service.

('64 Code, § 23-2; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

The city shall have the right at any time to shut off, ration or apportion water by reason of any emergency, shortage of water supply, or for making repairs, modifications, changes or other work in the water service facilities. In cases of such shut-off, rationing or apportionment, the city shall notify the affected water users, if possible, prior to such action being taken. The city shall not be responsible for any damages which may occur due to any such action. The owner and/or consumer shall be conclusively presumed to have taken all necessary precautions in compliance with the Building Codes and regulations of the Plumbing Code and any other city ordinances or regulations in anticipation of any such action.

('64 Code, § 23-3; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

It shall be unlawful for any person, other than those designated and authorized by proper authority, to tap, open, connect with, operate or otherwise tamper with any main, pipe, valve, fire hydrant or any other equipment which forms a part of the water system of the city.

('64 Code, § 23-4; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

All applications for water service shall be made on the forms furnished by the city. Every customer obtaining water service shall sign an application. In addition to any other information required, such application shall show the purpose for which water shall be used, the applicant's interest in the property served, and the address to which bills shall be mailed. Water service shall be discontinued if such application or corrected application is not submitted within five days after written notice to do so has been given to the consumer. Service shall be restored only upon receipt of a current application signed by the consumer and upon compliance with all other provisions of this chapter.

('64 Code, § 23-5; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) All applications for a new water service shall be made on the forms furnished by the city and shall be signed by the applicant.

(B) In addition to any other information required, such application shall show the true name of the applicant, the address of the property to be served, a true and accurate description of the area to be served and the size of the service requested.

(C) Each application shall be accompanied by an installation fee in the amount as estimated to be the proximate cost of such installation together with any additional fees or charges provided for herein.

('64 Code, § 23-6(a-c); Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Charges collected for installation of services and meters shall constitute a service fee; and the service pipe, water meter and appurtenances installed shall remain at all times the property of the city. Such facilities shall be maintained, repaired and renewed by the city when rendered unserviceable through ordinary wear and tear; provided, that where replacements, repairs or adjustments are rendered necessary by an act, negligence or carelessness of the consumer or his representative, any expense caused to the city thereby shall be charged against and be collected from the consumer.

('64 Code, § 23-6(d); Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, all water delivered by the city shall be delivered through approved meters installed by the city.

(B) Service pipes will be installed from the main to a point inside the curb lines where a meter and appurtenances will be installed. Installation and maintenance of all pipes on the property side of the meter shall be the responsibility of the consumer.

('64 Code, § 23-6(e-f); Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

When property is subdivided, the service connection shall be considered as belonging to the lot or parcel of land which it directly enters.

('64 Code, § 23-6(g); Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Meters will be removed and service discontinued upon request of the owner of the property served, or if any inactive service is unlikely to be used in the reasonably near future, as determined by the city, the meter may be removed.

(B) Services 1 1/2 inches in diameter and smaller may be reactivated and the meter reinstalled upon proper application and payment of a reinstallation charge as set by City Council resolution; provided, that the service pipe is at proper size and is good and in a useable condition. Services of two inches diameter and larger may be reinstalled upon proper application and payment of a reinstallation charge as determined by the city.

(C) Service which has been discontinued as a result of a violation of any rule and regulation or for delinquent payment of charges or penalties shall not be reactivated until such violation has been remedied and all charges and penalties have been paid.

(D) Any inactive or discontinued service which the city determines is unlikely to be used or is found to interfere with use of the public right-of-way or the facilities therein may, at the discretion of the city, be disconnected at the main and the service abandoned. Unusable and abandoned service lines shall not be reactivated and upon any application for same, the full charges and conditions for a new installation shall apply.

('64 Code, § 23-7; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75; Ord. 733, passed 6-9-88)

All city water used on any premises where a meter is installed must pass through the meter except as provided in the case of private fire service. No by-pass or connection around the meter between the service and the city water main shall be made or maintained by anyone other than the city.

('64 Code, § 23-8; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

Any person desiring to change the location or size of a service that has already been installed shall make application to the city and, upon payment in advance of the cost as determined by the city, the city may cause such change to be made. No such change shall be made if, in the opinion of the city, the same is not required or in the best interest of the city.

('64 Code, § 23-9; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Upon presentation of official identification, any city employee on official business shall be allowed free access at all reasonable hours to any premises supplied with city water.

(B) No person as owner or occupant of any premises supplied with city water shall refuse admittance to or hinder or prevent inspection by an authorized employee of the city when on official business. If any person as owner or occupant of such premises does so refuse, hinder or prevent admittance to such premises the water to such premises may be shut off.

('64 Code, §§ 23-10—23-11; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

(A) Every consumer shall at his own risk and expense furnish, install and maintain in good and safe condition all apparatus and appliances which may be required for receiving, controlling, applying and utilizing water furnished by the city. Where any part of the consumer's installation is found to be unsafe, or where the consumer willfully wastes water in any manner, the water may be shut off until such unsafe or wasteful practices have been discontinued or until such repairs or modifications have been made to the satisfaction of the city.

(B) Any damage occurring to the meters or other pipes or appliances owned by the city which is caused by carelessness, neglect or unsafe apparatus of the consumer shall be paid for by the consumer on presentation of a bill therefor.

(C) The city does not assume the responsibility of inspection of the consumer's installation and assumes no liability, nor shall the city be responsible for any damage occurring on the premises or elsewhere by reason of open faucets, faulty fixtures, broken pipe or for any other unsafe condition or apparatus at or after the service is turned on, nor for any damage resulting from the turning off of water service.

('64 Code, § 23-12; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

In all cases in which water is being delivered 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. Should the owner fail or refuse to provide such independent service, the city shall, after 30 days' notice to the consumer so served and to the owner of such premises or the person in charge thereof, shut off water to such premises until the independent services herein required are installed.

('64 Code, § 23-13; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) No water shall be served through a common service to two or more separate parcels of property, unless by written consent of the city, and then only upon the terms and conditions set forth in the written consent.

(B) No consumer may resell water without prior approval of the city. Water used by any consumer shall be restricted to that use and to that area specified in the application for service installation.

('64 Code, § 23-14; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Whenever a service is installed for private fire protection, a charge shall be made for installation of a fire detector check meter and appurtenances. Such service may be used only in case of fire or other purposes in this chapter expressly provided. Use of fire protection service for any other purpose than in this chapter provided shall be a misdemeanor.

(B) Should it be necessary to use water through a fire detector check meter for the purpose of testing or maintaining a private fire suppression system or Fire Department apparatus, the city shall authorize such use upon the receipt of a written request stating:

(1) Date and time of use;

(2) Purpose;

(3) Estimated quality of water to be used;

(4) Estimated maximum flow.

(C) The city may restrict such nonemergency flows which may be detrimental to or tend to de-water the system.

('64 Code, § 23-15; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

Fire hydrants shall be opened only by the city or by such persons as may have first obtained a written permit from the city. No such permit shall be issued to any person who has violated any of the provisions of this chapter or whose indebtedness to the city for water used or damage to hydrants is delinquent. Only approved spanner wrenches may be used when operating fire hydrants.

('64 Code, § 23-16; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

No consumer shall make or permit to be made a physical connection to a service by which the utilization of water delivered thereto is prohibited or forbidden under authority of any law or municipal ordinance or regulation or to any pipe, fixture, tank, appliances or apparatus supplied through a separate service connection to the city water mains or by any other water source whatsoever.

('64 Code, § 23-17; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.

Approved Water Supply. A potable water supply of safe, sanitary quality which is approved for human consumption by the authorities having jurisdiction thereof.

Cross-Connections. Any actual or potential connection, arrangement or installation of piping, structures or devices whereby it is possible for any used, unclean, polluted or contaminated water, mixture, gas or substance to enter any portion of any approved water supply.

Used Water. Any water supplied to a customer's water system after it has passed through the point of delivery and is no longer under control of the city.

(B) Water service may be discontinued to any premises upon which there is found to be another source of water supply or a possible cross-connection. Such service shall not be restored until such cross-connection has been eliminated or back-flow devices satisfactory to the city have been installed. The expense and maintenance of back-flow devices and the cost of eliminating cross-connections shall be paid by the consumer or owner of the premises.

('64 Code, § 23-18; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

All shut-off valves are installed by and for the use of the city. Except in the case of an emergency, the consumer shall not use, operate or tamper with such shut-off valves. The consumer shall install for his ordinary usage a shut-off valve on the property side of the meter. Such valve must be so placed as to be readily accessible for use and must be kept in good working order at all times.

('64 Code, § 23-19; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

It shall be unlawful to damage or interfere with or to place any object, material, dirt or debris, garbage or rubbish cans or accumulation of any kind upon or about any fire hydrant, gate valve, manhole, meter or meter box, shut-off valve or valve box so as to prevent free and immediate access to such at all times.

('64 Code, § 23-20; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

If the customer should fail to comply with any of the conditions of service herein or amendments thereto, the city shall advise the customer of such failure either verbally or by written notice. If the customer does not remedy or abate such noncompliance within 15 days after notification, the city may shut the water off and discontinue service; except, that for any condition or circumstance creating a hazard or danger to life or property, rendering immediate action imperative, no notice shall be required.

('64 Code, § 23-21; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Water service which has been shut off for failure to comply with any of the rules and regulations or to pay any rates, charges or penalties, as herein provided, shall not be restored until such rules and regulations and penalties have been complied with to the satisfaction of the city and payment is made of the amount due if any; and in addition thereto an amount as set by City Council resolution shall be assessed for the expense of turning the water off and on for the first such occurrence in any six-month period and an additional amount as set by City Council resolution shall be assessed for each subsequent occurrence.

(B) In the event that any person turns the water on after it has been turned off by the city at the "curb stop," there shall be an additional charge in an amount as set by City Council resolution placed against the service for the first such occurrence in any six-month period and an additional amount as set by City Council resolution shall be assessed for the second and each subsequent occurrence within the six-month period.

(C) The payment of any penalties, charges, and delinquent accounts shall be made in the collection office of the city.

('64 Code, § 23-22; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75; Ord. 676, passed 9-12-85; Ord. 733, passed 6-9-88)

(A) Meters shall be read as nearly as possible at regular intervals. Special meter reading may be made when a vacancy or customer change occurs or for any other reason deemed sufficient by the city.

(B) Where a consumer is served by more than one meter, each meter will be considered separately when computing charges.

('64 Code, §§ 23-23—23-24; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) The consumer shall notify the city of any change in the status of or the information shown on the application for service and shall be responsible for the water service furnished until the city is notified to discontinue service.

(B) The city shall make no adjustments to or waive any charges or penalties resulting from the consumer's failure to provide current information.

(C) All conditions of service contained herein together with the current water rates and charges shall apply to each and every service regardless of whether the premises served is occupied or vacant; except, that if the water has been turned off by the city upon request of the consumer or the owner of the property, any fixed or minimum charge shall not apply.

('64 Code, § 23-25; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

The city may refuse water service or may discontinue service at any time if found necessary in order to protect the city against abuse or fraud.

('64 Code, § 23-26; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Bills for water service shall be rendered in accordance with the information shown on the application for service and at such times and for such periods as determined by the city.

(B) Charges shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the water rates and charges as established from time to time by resolution of the City Council and shall be rendered for the sum of the charges for each rate schedule period or portions thereof within the billing period. Charges for water usage shall be determined by applying the quantity water rate to the registration of the meter during rate schedule period.

(C) Water bills are due and payable upon presentation and shall become delinquent if not paid before the 15th day after the date of mailing. If the bill is not paid within 28 days from the date billed, a delinquent charge is imposed. If the delinquent notice which includes the delinquent charge is not paid within 15 days of the date of the mailing of the delinquent notice, the city may shut the water off and discontinue service.

(D) If any fire service account becomes delinquent, the city may shut off and discontinue the domestic water service to the premises.

(E) Water service shall not be restored until all provisions of § 53.24 have been complied with.

('64 Code, § 23-27; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Temporary service as herein considered refers to the temporary attachment of a water meter to the outlet nozzle of a fire hydrant for the purpose of supplying water service for a limited duration.

(B) The city shall have the right to refuse or to discontinue any temporary service if in its opinion such temporary service creates or may create any undue hardship or hazard to it or its then existing customers.

(C) Upon approval of a proper application and payment of such deposits, charges and fees as required in the current water rates and charges, the city shall install a meter and control valve for the consumer's use.

(D) All provisions and conditions of water service defined in this chapter shall apply to temporary water service and the removal, relocation, setting or resetting of a temporary water meter by an unauthorized person and the use of the fire hydrant valve to control the flow of water through such meter is prohibited.

('64 Code, § 23-28; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Cross reference— Penalty, see § 10.97

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 consumption of the same period for the prior year by the same user, or if such a reading is not applicable, the city shall estimate the amount of such consumption from all information available and the consumer shall be charged on the basis of such estimate for water consumed but not covered by the bills previously rendered for such period.

('64 Code, § 23-30; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) Any consumer may request that the meter through which water is furnished be examined and tested by the city for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not it is registering correctly the amount of water which is being delivered through it. Such request shall be made in writing on forms furnished by the city and shall be accompanied by a deposit in an amount as set by City Council resolution for meters one inch and under and for meters 1 1/2 inches and larger. Upon receipt of such request and deposit, the city shall cause the meter to be examined and tested.

(B) If the meter is found to register over three percent more water than actually passes through it, another meter will be substituted therefor and the deposit shall be repaid to the person making the application and the water bill for the current period adjusted as set forth in § 53.30. If the meter is found to register not over three percent fast, the deposit shall be forfeited to the city and the water bill paid as rendered.

('64 Code, § 23-31; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75; Ord. 733, passed 6-9-88)

The City Manager shall have the power in his discretion to adjust complaints and, in the event of any dispute as to the water charges to be paid by any consumer, he shall determine the same.

('64 Code, § 23-32; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

A trunk line connection fee as set by the City Council resolution shall be paid upon application for a water service connection, and shall be in addition to all other fees and charges provided in this chapter.

('64 Code, § 23-33; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75; Ord. 733, passed 6-9-88; Ord. 811, passed 6-25-92)

(A) At the time of dividing, subdividing, resubdividing, developing or constructing on any tract or parcel of land served by the city, or upon annexation of any parcel of land, either developed or undeveloped, the owners of such tracts, lands, parcels or annexations shall pay to the city all costs to provide for such water mains, submains, fire hydrants and water services as may be necessary for the distribution of water and fire protection to each lot, piece or parcel of land. When installed, such mains, submains and services shall become and be the property of the city and dedicated to the public for the purpose of distributing water to such land.

(B) The Director of Public Works shall determine the location of mains in streets, alleys and easements and determine the size of such mains, type and specifications of valves, fire hydrants, fittings, consumer services and all other appurtenances deemed necessary for supplying water to the property served. The Director of Public Works shall confer with the Fire Chief on those matters of concern to the Fire Department.

(C) No division, subdivision, resubdivision, development or annexation of land within the city shall be accepted and approved by the City Council unless and until the owners of such real property shall have made the necessary arrangements for the installation of the facilities herein described.

('64 Code, § 23-34; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

(A) All water rights as defined in and pursuant to the judgment dated October 11, 1965 and entered in Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 786, 656 entitled "Central and West Basin-Water Replenishment District v. Charles E. Adams, et al." shall be deeded to the city prior to the acceptance and approval by the city of any maps, documents, permits or applications for water service connections to the municipal water system for the division, subdivision, development or redevelopment of any land on which such water rights were developed. In the event that the above requirements do not apply to the entire land area on which the water rights were developed, the total rights shall be prorated on a gross land acreage basis and the water rights apportioned to the land area for which these requirements do apply shall be dedicated.

(B) Whenever it is found by the City Engineer that water rights required by this section to be deeded to the city have not been previously deeded to the city and are not available to the owner of the land at the time these requirements for dedication apply, such landowner shall pay to the city the cost of acquiring comparable water rights as determined by the City Manager.

('64 Code, § 23-35; Ord. 496, passed 5-13-75)

Under the terms of the city's water supply permit issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board, the city is required to comply with Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations ("CCR Title 17") and California Health and Safety Code § 4017 regarding cross-connection control. The state regulations imposed by the California State Water Resources Control Board are necessary to ensure that the city's water supply is protected from harmful contaminants and pollutants resulting from backflow. The adoption of this section is necessary to ensure renewal of the city's water supply permit, to protect the public health, safety and general welfare and to comply with the requirements above.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

The purpose of this subchapter is:

(A) To protect the city's municipal water system from contaminants or pollutants by isolating sources of contaminants or pollutants within a customer's internal water distribution system which could backflow or back siphon into the city's water system;

(B) To eliminate and control cross-connections that exist between a customer's potable water system and non-potable water systems; and

(C) To evaluate and reduce the following potential hazards to the city's potable water supply such as:

(1) Health Hazard. Any actual or potential threat of contamination of a physical or toxic nature to the city's water system or the consumer's potable water system that would create or, in the judgement of the Director, may create a danger to health.

(2) Plumbing Hazard. Any internal or plumbing type of cross-connection in a customer's potable water system that may be either a pollutant or contamination-type hazard. The term Plumbing Hazard includes, but is not limited to, cross-connections to toilets, sinks, lavatories, wash trays, recycled/reclaimed water systems, washing machines or lawn sprinkling systems. Plumbing type cross-connections may be located in many types of structures, including homes, apartment houses, hotels and commercial and industrial establishments. An appropriate type of cross-connection control assembly, if permitted, must properly protect such a connection.

(3) Pollution Hazard. Any actual or potential threat to the physical properties of the water system or to the potability of the city's or the consumer's potable water system, but which would not constitute a health or system hazard, as defined.

(4) System Hazard. Any actual or potential threat of severe damage to the physical properties of the city's water system or the consumer's potable water system or of a pollutant or contaminant that may have a protractive effect on the quality of the potable water in the system.

(5) Industrial Fluids System Hazard. Any fluid or solution that may be chemically, biologically or otherwise contaminated or polluted in a form or concentration such as to constitute a health, water system, pollution or plumbing hazard if introduced into an approved water supply. This type of contamination includes but is not limited to polluted waters; all types of process waters and used waters; chemicals in fluid form; plating acids and alkalies; circulated cooling tower waters (open or closed) that may be chemically or biologically treated or stabilized with toxic substances; contaminated natural waters, such as from wells, springs, streams, rivers, harbors or irrigation canals; oils; gases; glycerine; caustic and acidic solutions; and all other solutions which may be used for industrial or firefighting purposes.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.

Air Gap Separation/Approved Air Gap Separation (AG). Shall be at least double the inside diameter of the supply pipe measured vertically above the top rim of the vessel, but shall in no case be less than one inch, a physical separation between the free-flowing discharge end of a potable water supply pipeline and an open or non-pressurized receiving vessel.

Approved Backflow Prevention Assembly. An assembly approved by the Director that has been manufactured in full conformance with the standards established by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) entitled "AWWA C50669 Standards for Reduced Pressure Principle and Double Check Valve Backflow Assemblies," and that has completely met the laboratory and field performance specifications of the Foundation of Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (FCCCHR) of the University of Southern California, established in the "Specifications of Backflow Prevention Assemblies."

Approved Testing Laboratory. The FCCCHR of the University of Southern California or another independent laboratory having equivalent facilities for both laboratory and field evaluation of backflow prevention assemblies approved by the Director.

Approved Water Supply. The source, well or plant whose potability is regulated and monitored by the health agency. This supply includes all sources, wells, pumps, tanks, equipment and appurtenances used to produce, treat or store water for public consumption or use.

Auxiliary Water Supply. Any water supply on or available to the premises other than the city's water supply. Auxiliary Waters may include water from another purveyor's potable water system or any natural source(s), e.g., a well, spring, river, harbor, irrigation canal, pipeline; used water; or industrial fluids. These waters may be contaminated, polluted, and objectionable or constitute an unacceptable water source over which the city does not have sanitary control.

AWWA. The American Water Works Association.

Backflow. The undesirable reversal of the flow of water, liquids, gases, mixtures or other substances into or towards the city's water system from any source other than the city's water system.

Backflow Prevention Assembly or Assemblies. An assembly or means used to prevent backflow or back-siphonage into a potable water system.

Backpressure. A form of backflow that occurs when any elevation of pressure in the downstream piping system (by pump, elevation of piping, steam and/or air pressure) above the supply pressure at the point of consideration would cause or tend to cause a reversal of the normal flow.

Back-Siphonage. The form of backflow due to a reduction in system pressure that causes a negative or sub-atmospheric pressure to exist at a site in the water system.

CCR Title 17. The California Code of Regulations, Administrative Code, Title 17, Public Health, which requires the establishment of a cross-connection control and backflow prevention program.

City. The City of Santa Fe Springs.

City's Water System. The city-owned water mains operated as a public utility to furnish water for domestic purposes. The System includes all facilities between the approved water supply and the point of service such as valves, pumps, pipes, conduits, tanks, receptacles, fixtures, equipment and other appurtenances used to convey water for public consumption or use.

Contaminant or Contamination. An impairment or degradation of the quality of water by the introduction of sewage, industrial fluid, used water, recycled/reclaimed water, foreign material or auxiliary water from an unapproved source to a degree that creates an actual hazard to the public health through poisoning, the spread of disease or which may impair the usefulness or quality of the water.

Cross-Connection. Any unprotected actual or potential connection or structural arrangement between the city's or a consumer's potable water system and any other source, supply or system through which it is possible to introduce into any part of the public potable system any used water, industrial fluid(s), gases, liquids, materials or substances other than the intended potable water. A bypass arrangement, jumper connection, removable section, swivel or changeover assembly and any other temporary or permanent assembly through which, or because of which, backflow can or may occur shall be considered a Cross-Connection.

Customer, User or Owner. Any person or organization who receives water from the city's water system.

Customer's Potable Water System. That portion of the privately owned potable water system lying between the point of service and the point of use, including all pipes, conduits, tanks, receptacles, fixtures, equipment and appurtenances used to produce, convey, store or use potable water.

Customer's Water System. Any water system located on the consumer's premises, whether supplied by the city's water system or an auxiliary water supply. The Customer's Water System may be either a potable water system or an industrial piping system.

Degree of Hazard. The hazard derived from an evaluation of the conditions within a system that may be classified as either a pollution (non-health) or contamination (health) hazard.

Director. The Director of the Public Works Department or designee.

Director Designate. A Public Works employee that the Public Works Director determines is qualified as a cross-connection control specialist and who possesses a cross-connection control certificate from the American Water Works Association or similarly recognized agency.

Double Check - Detector Assembly (DCDA). A specifically designed assembly composed of two independently operating, approved check valves installed as a unit between two tightly closing, resilient-seated shutoff valves and fittings with properly located test cocks for testing each check valve, along with a specific bypass water meter in series with a double check valve (DC). The meter shall register accurately for only very low rates of flow in cubic feet and shall show a registration for all rates of flow.

Double Check Valve Assembly (DC). An assembly composed of two independently operating, approved check valves, including tightly closing shutoff valves attached on each end of the assembly and fitted with properly located test cocks for testing that each check valve is watertight. DC Assemblies shall be installed to protect against a non-health hazard (e.g., a pollutant).

Fire Chief. That member of the Fire Department designated by the Fire Chief under § 202 of the most recent edition of the California Fire Code.

Foundation (FCCCHR). The Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research of the University of Southern California.

Hazardous Substances. Any hazardous waste or hazardous substance as defined in any federal or state law or local ordinance, rule or regulation including, without limitation, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 (Title 42 United States Code §§ 9601, et seq.); the Carpenter Presley Tanner Hazardous Substance Account Act (California Health and Safety Code §§ 25300, et seq.); and the Hazardous Waste Control Law (California Health and Safety Code §§ 25100, et seq.). Hazardous Substances shall also include asbestos or asbestos-containing materials, radon gas, and petroleum or petroleum fractions, whether or not defined as a hazardous substance in any such statute, ordinance, rule or regulation.

Health Agency. Either the State of California Department of Health Services or the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

Hospital. Any institution, place, building or agency that maintains and operates facilities for one or more persons for the diagnosis, care and treatment of human illness, including convalescence and care during and after pregnancy or which maintains and operates organized facilities for any such purposes, and to which persons may be admitted for overnight stay or longer.

Industrial Fluids. Any fluid or solution that may be chemically, biologically or otherwise contaminated or polluted in a form or concentration such as to constitute a health, water system, pollution or plumbing hazard if introduced into an approved water supply. Industrial Fluids include, but are not limited to, polluted or contaminated waters; all types of process waters and used waters; chemicals in fluid form; plating acids and alkalis; circulating cooling tower waters (open or closed) that may be chemically or biologically treated or stabilized with toxic substances; contaminated natural waters, such as from wells, springs, streams, rivers, harbors or irrigation canals; oils; gases; glycerin; caustic and acid solutions; and all other liquids and gaseous fluids and solutions that are intended for industrial or firefighting purposes.

Point of Service. The terminal end of the city's water system where the city loses jurisdiction and quality control over the water at its point of delivery to the consumer's water system. In general, the Point of Service is the downstream side of the service connection, water meter or the municipal shutoff valve.

Pollutant or Pollution. Any foreign substance (organic, inorganic or biological) present in water that tends to degrade its quality so as to constitute a non-health hazard or may impair the usefulness or quality of the water to a degree that does not create an actual hazard to the public health but which adversely and unreasonably affects such waters for domestic use.

Premises. Any and all areas on a customer's property which are served or have the potential to be served by the city's water system.

Public Works. The department in charge of the city's municipal potable water operations.

Reduced Pressure - Detector Assembly (RPDA). An assembly containing two independently operating approved check valves together with a hydraulically operating, mechanically independent pressure differential relief valve located between the check valves and at the same time below the first check valve, along with a specific bypass water meter in series with a reduced pressure principle assembly (RPP). The meter shall register accurately for only very low rates of flow in cubic feet and shall show a registration for all rates of flow. The unit shall include properly located test cocks and tightly closing, resilient-seated shutoff valves at each end of the assembly. The assembly shall operate to maintain the pressure in the zone between the two check valves at a level less than the pressure on the public water supply side of the assembly. At cessation of normal flow, the pressure between the two check valves shall be less than the pressure on the public water supply side of the assembly. 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.

Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly (RPP). An assembly containing two independently operating approved check valves together with a hydraulically operating, mechanically independent pressure differential relief valve located between the check valves and at the same time below the first check valve. The unit shall include properly located test cocks and tightly closing, resilient-seated shutoff valves at each end of the assembly. The assembly shall operate to maintain the pressure in the zone between the two check valves at a level less than the pressure on the public water supply side of the assembly. At cessation of normal flow, the pressure between the two check valves shall be less than the pressure on the public water supply side of the assembly. 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.

Service Connection. The city's water pipe and appurtenances from the city's water main to the service connection or water meter; in particular, the point where the water purveyor loses jurisdiction and quality control over the water and its point of delivery to the customer's water system. If a meter is installed at the end of the service connection, then Service Connection shall mean the upstream end of the meter. There shall be no unprotected takeoffs from the service line ahead of any meter or backflow prevention assembly located at the point of delivery to the customer's water system. The term Service Connection shall also include a water service connection from a fire hydrant and all other temporary or emergency water service connections from the city's potable water system.

Unapproved Water Supply. Any water that has not been approved for human consumption by a health agency.

Used Water. Any water that has been supplied by the city from the public potable water system to a customer's water system, but which has passed through the point of delivery and is no longer under the quality control of the water purveyor.

Water Purveyor. The City of Santa Fe Springs.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) The Director shall be responsible for protecting the city's water system from contamination or pollution due to backflow or back-siphonage of contaminates or pollutants through the water service connection. If, in the sole judgment of the Director, an approved backflow prevention assembly is required at the point where the city's water service connects to a customer's premises for the health and safety of the water system, the Director or the Director's designate shall give notice to the customer directing the customer to install an approved backflow prevention assembly at each service connection. Such notice shall be in writing and shall specify a reasonable time frame, as deemed appropriate by the Director, for compliance. The city shall not be responsible for the abatement of cross-connections which may exist within a user's premises.

(B) The customer shall install an approved backflow prevention assembly at the customer's own expense within the time frame specified in the written notice. The customer's failure, refusal or inability to install such assembly shall constitute grounds for the city to discontinue water service to the premises until the appropriate assembly has been properly installed, as required by this subchapter. Prior to discontinuing water service, the city shall follow the procedures set forth in this subchapter.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) The city's water system includes all of the source and distribution facilities which are under the complete control of the city from the source of the water supply up to the point where the customer's water system begins. The city's water system ends at the point where the customer's water system begins. A source includes all components of the facilities utilized in the production, treatment, storage, conveyance and delivery of water to the distribution system. The distribution system includes the network of conduits used for the delivery of water from the source to the customer's system.

(B) The customer's water system includes those parts of the facilities beyond the point where the city's water system ends that are utilized in conveying city delivered potable water to a point of use.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) No water service connection to any premises shall be installed or maintained by the city's Public Works Department unless the water supply is protected as required by state law and this subchapter. Service of water to any premises shall be discontinued by the Director if:

(1) A backflow prevention assembly required by state law or this subchapter is not installed, tested or maintained;

(2) It is found that a backflow prevention assembly has been removed or bypassed; or

(3) An unprotected cross-connection exists on the premises. Service shall not be restored until the customer is in full compliance with this subchapter.

(B) The customer's premises and water system shall be open for survey and inspection at all reasonable times to an authorized representative of the following city departments: Public Works, Building and Safety, Planning, Code Enforcement and the City Manager's Office, to determine whether cross-connections or violations of this subchapter exist. When such a violation or condition becomes known, the Director shall deny or immediately discontinue service to the customer's premises by providing a physical break in the service line until the customer has corrected the condition(s) in conformance with state and city regulations adopted pursuant thereto.

(C) An approved backflow prevention assembly shall be installed and maintained on each service line to a customer's water system at or near the property line or immediately outside the building being served, and shall be installed before the first branch line leading off of the service line.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) The type of backflow prevention that shall be required to prevent backflow into the city's water system shall be commensurate with the degree of hazard that exists on the consumer's premises. The type of approved backflow prevention assembly that may be required (listed in increasing levels of protection) includes: an approved double check valve (DC) assembly, an approved double check - detector check (DCDA) valve assembly, an approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) assembly, or an approved air gap separation (AG).

(B) The customer may install a higher level of backflow protection than is required by this subchapter, upon written approval from the Director. Uses not covered by this subchapter shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and the Director shall have sole discretion to determine which type of backflow prevention assembly shall be required.

(C) Where a premises has an auxiliary water supply, an approved water supply (supplied by another water purveyor), or an unapproved water supply that is not otherwise subject to the provisions of this subchapter, the city's water system shall be protected against backflow by an approved air gap (AG) separation or by installation and maintenance of an approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention assembly.

(D) Where a premises has any water or substance(s) that would be considered objectionable, but not hazardous, to public health if introduced into the water system, the city's water system shall be protected by installation and maintenance of an approved double check valve (DC) assembly.

(E) Where a premises has any material dangerous to health that is handled in such a fashion as to create an actual or potential hazard to the city's water system (e.g., sewage treatment plants, sewage pumping stations, plating plants, chemical plants, hospitals, and mortuaries), the city's water system shall be protected by an approved air gap (AG) separation or by installation and maintenance of an approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention assembly.

(F) In the case of any premises where there is an uncontrolled cross-connection, either actual or potential, the city's water system shall be protected by an approved air gap (AG) separation or by installation and maintenance of an approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention assembly at the service connection.

(G) In the case of a premises with security requirements or other restrictions that make it impossible or impracticable to conduct a complete onsite cross-connection survey, the city's water system shall be protected against backflow by the installation and maintenance of either an air gap (AG) separation or reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention assembly at each service connection to the premises.

(H) Where a premises has any internal cross-connection that cannot be permanently corrected and controlled, intricate plumbing and piping arrangements, or where all portions of the premises are not readily accessible for inspection purposes, and it is impracticable or impossible to ascertain whether or not a dangerous cross-connection exists, the city's water system shall be protected against backflow by the installation and maintenance of an approved air gap (AG) separation or reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention assembly at each service connection to the premises.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) The following facilities and uses shall be required to install and maintain the minimum approved backflow prevention assembly type indicated below in parentheses:

(1) Aircraft, automotive, rail transit or missile plant (RPP);

(2) Animal clinic, animal grooming shop and animal boarding facility (RPP);

(3) Apartment or office complex with a pond, lake or fountain (RPP);

(4) Automobile repair shop with steam cleaner, acid cleaning or solvent equipment (RPP);

(5) Auxiliary water system with no known cross-connection (RPP);

(6) Auxiliary water system or a source with a known cross-connection (e.g., a well, river, harbor, irrigation canal) (RPP);

(7) Autopsy facility (RPP);

(8) Bottling plant (beverage or chemical) (RPP);

(9) Brewery (RPP);

(10) Buildings:

(a) Hotel, apartment house, public and private building or other structure, where a sewage pump has been installed (RPP);

(b) Any nonresidential structure in which the specific business activity cannot be ascertained by the Director or his or her designee (RPP);

(c) A multistoried (three stories and higher) building that uses booster pumps or elevated storage tanks to distribute potable water within the premises (RPP);

(d) Any building that exceeds 40 feet in height as measured from the service connection to the highest water outlet (RPP);

(11) Cannery, packing house or reduction plant (RPP);

(12) Chemical facility - any premises served from the city's water system where there is a facility requiring the use of water in the industrial process of manufacturing, sorting, compounding or processing chemicals. This use includes facilities where chemicals are used as additives to the water supply or in the processing of products (RPP);

(13) Chemically contaminated water systems - any premises served from the city's water system, where chemicals are used as additives to the water supply, where the water supply is used for the transmission or distribution of chemicals, or where chemicals are used with water in the compounding or processing of products (RPP);

(14) Church, with or without baptismal font (RPP);

(15) Clinic - dialysis or medical (RPP);

(16) Cold storage plant (RPP);

(17) Commercial meat cutting, packaging or rendering plant (RPP);

(18) Concrete plant (RPP);

(19) Convalescent home, nursing home, residential care, hospice and sanitarium (RPP);

(20) Dairy and dairy processing facility (RPP);

(21) Dental office (RPP);

(22) Dock and portside facility, including pier hydrants, fisheries, fish hatcheries, and fish/shellfish processing facilities (RPP);

(23) Dry cleaner and dye works (RPP);

(24) Film processing or manufacturing facility (RPP);

(25) Food processing facility using nontoxic materials (RPP);

(26) Food processing facility using toxic materials (RPP);

(27) Hospital (RPP);

(28) Ice manufacturing plant (RPP);

(29) Irrigation system:

(a) Premises where facilities have been installed for pumping, injecting, or spreading fertilizers, pesticides or other hazardous substances (RPP);

(b) Premises having a separate service connection for irrigation purposes (RPP);

(30) Laboratory - including but not limited to teaching institution, experimental, diagnostic, biological or analytical (RPP);

(31) Landscaping with elevated areas or drip irrigation except for landscaping of a single-family dwelling (RPP);

(32) Laundry - commercial (Standard Industrial Code Classification 7218) (RPP);

(33) Machine shop (RPP);

(34) Marina and boat repair (RPP);

(35) Medical office (RPP);

(36) Metal manufacturing, processing, stripping and fabrication facility (RPP);

(37) Mobile home park or recreational vehicle camp (RPP);

(38) Mortuary and morgue (RPP);

(39) Multiple services, including two or more interconnected services provided by one or more water purveyors to a single consumer complex. Minimum backflow protection required at each service connection (RPP);

(40) Office or shopping center with lease space (RPP);

(41) Painting shop using water in any process (RPP);

(42) Paper processing and production facility (RPP);

(43) Pest control business (AG, RPP);

(44) Petroleum and gas bulk production, transmission, and storage facility (RPP);

(45) Plastic and fiberglass manufacturing, extruding and injection molding facility (RPP);

(46) Plating works (RPP);

(47) Portable spray or cleaning tank that may be connected to the city's water system (AG, RPP);

(48) Radioactive materials or substances - plant or facility that processes, handles or stores radioactive material or substance (RPP);

(49) Radiator shop - repair or back flushing (RPP);

(50) Reclaimed water distribution systems:

(a) Any premises where the city's water system is used to supplement the reclaimed water system (AG);

(b) Any premises where reclaimed water is used and there is no interconnection with the potable water system (RPP);

(51) Restaurant or building with commercial kitchen (RPP);

(52) Restricted, classified or other closed facility (RPP);

(53) Rubber manufacturing plant - natural or synthetic (RPP);

(54) Sand or gravel plant (RPP);

(55) School, college, and university with kitchen, chemistry lab, boiler, and/or irrigation system (RPP);

(56) Sewage and stormwater pumping facility (AG);

(57) Solar heating systems:

(a) Solar collector system which contains any hazardous substance and where there is a direct makeup connection to the city's water system (RPP);

(b) Protection of the city's water system is not required for "once through" solar heating systems including but not limited to domestic hot water systems;

(58) Tank truck filling from fire hydrant (AG, RPP);

(59) Vehicle washing facility (RPP);

(60) Veterinary clinic and animal shelter (RPP).

(B) The category of uses and facilities designated above are for reference only. Nothing in this section authorizes a use or facility in the city which is otherwise prohibited under the Santa Fe Springs Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

The following describes the six classes of fire protection systems and specify the minimal backflow prevention assembly required for connection of the fire protection systems to the city's water system. The Director may require an additional backflow prevention assembly to prevent contamination of the city's water system.

(A) A Class I system is directly connected only to the city's public water mains. All sprinkler drains discharge to the atmosphere, dry wells or other safe outlets. A Class I system has no physical connection to other water supplies and contains no antifreeze or other additives. An approved DCDA backflow prevention assembly shall be required for connection of a Class I system to the city's water system between the post-indicator valve and the onsite fire system. The DCDA shall be installed aboveground to allow a minimum of 18 inches of clearance around the valve.

(B) A Class II system is the same as a Class I system, except that a booster pump may be installed on the customer's side of the service line from the street main. An approved DCDA backflow prevention assembly shall be required for connection of a Class II system to the city's water system between the post-indicator valve and the onsite fire system. The DCDA shall be installed aboveground to allow a minimum of 18 inches of clearance around the valve.

(C) A Class III system is directly connected to the city's main water supply and includes one or more of the following features: (1) an elevated storage tank; (2) a fire pump taking suction from an aboveground reservoir or tank; and (3) a pressure tank. All storage facilities may only be filled by or connected to the city's water supply and water in the facilities must be maintained in a potable condition. An approved DCDA backflow prevention assembly shall be required for connection of a Class III system to the city's water system between the post-indicator valve and the onsite fire system. The DCDA shall be installed aboveground to allow a minimum of 18 inches of clearance around the valve.

(D) A Class IV system is directly supplied from the city's main water supply in the same manner as a Class I or Class II system. In addition, a Class IV system includes an unapproved auxiliary water supply on or available to the premises, or an auxiliary supply located within 1,500 feet of a pumper connection. An RPDA backflow prevention assembly shall be installed for connection of a Class IV system to the city's water system. The RPDA shall be installed aboveground to allow a minimum of 18 inches of clearance around the valve and as closely as possible to the city's water system.

(E) A Class V system is directly supplied from the city's main water system and is interconnected with an unapproved auxiliary water supply from a harbor, river, pond, well or other water supply where industrial fluids, additives, antifreeze and other contaminants or pollutants may be used. An RPDA backflow prevention assembly shall be required for connection of a Class V system to the city's water system. The RPDA shall be installed aboveground to allow a minimum of 18 inches of clearance around the valve and as closely as possible to the city's water system.

(F) A Class VI system contains combined industrial and fire protection systems supplied from the city's water mains, with or without gravity storage or pump suction tanks. An RPDA backflow prevention assembly shall be required for connection of a Class V system to the city's water system. The RPDA shall be installed aboveground to allow a minimum of 18 inches of clearance around the valve and as closely as possible to the city's water system. The Public Works Director and/or Fire Chief shall make the final determination of the appropriate backflow prevention assembly required for connection of a Class VI system to the city's water system after they have made a complete survey of the premises for fire protection requirements.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

Prior to the installation of any backflow prevention assembly between the city's water system and the owner's facility, the owner shall apply for and receive all required city permits and licenses.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) The installation of all backflow and cross-connection prevention devices shall be in accordance with the city's standard details, created and approved by the Director, and all provisions of this subchapter.

(B) An approved air gap separation assembly (AG) shall be installed as follows:

(1) The AG shall be located on the water customer's side of and as close to the point of service as is practicable.

(2) All piping from the point of service or the meter to the receiving tank shall be above grade and visible. Unless otherwise approved by the Director, the Director's designate, or the health agency, the receiving tank shall be located on the customer's side no further than five feet from the point of service or the meter.

(3) There shall be no outlet, tee, tap, takeoff or connection of any sort, to or from the service connection or the customer's water system, between the city's water main and the AG.

(C) An approved reduced pressure principle (RPP) assembly shall be installed as follows:

(1) Aboveground in a horizontal and level position. Unless otherwise approved by the Director, the Director's designate or the health agency, the RPP shall be located on the customer's side no further than five feet from the point of service or the meter.

(2) A minimum of 12 inches above finished grade but not more than 36 inches above finished grade as measured from the bottom of the RPP. The RPP shall be readily accessible for maintenance and testing.

(3) There shall be no outlet, tee, tap, takeoff or connection of any sort, to or from the service connection or the customer's water system, between the city's water main and the RPP.

(4) No part of the RPP shall be submerged during normal operation and weather conditions.

(D) An approved double check valve (DC) assembly shall be installed as follows:

(1) Unless otherwise approved by the Director, Director's designate or the health agency, the DC shall be installed aboveground, in a horizontal and level position and shall be located on the customer's side no further than five feet from the point of service or the meter.

(2) Unless otherwise approved by the Director, the Director's Designate or the health agency, the DC shall be installed a minimum of 12 inches above finished grade and not more than 36 inches above finished grade as measured from the bottom of the DC. The DC shall be readily accessible for maintenance and testing.

(E) An approved double check - detector check (DCDA) valve assembly shall be installed as follows:

(1) Unless otherwise approved by the Director, the Director's designate or the health agency, the DCDA shall be installed aboveground, in a horizontal and level position and shall be located on the customer's side no further than five feet from the point of service or the meter.

(2) Unless otherwise approved by the Director, the Director's designate or the health agency, the DCDA shall be installed a minimum of 12 inches above finished grade but not more than 36 inches above finished grade as measured from the bottom of the DCDA. The DCDA shall be readily accessible for maintenance and testing.

(3) There shall be no outlet, tee, tap, takeoff or connection of any sort, to or from the service connection or the customer's water system, between the city's water main and the DCDA.

(F) An approved backflow assembly shall have at least the same size diameter as the existing or proposed water meter unless otherwise approved in writing by the Director.

(G) Upon installation, the backflow prevention assembly shall be tested by a Los Angeles County certified backflow tester. Such testing shall be at the customer's expense.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) All backflow prevention assemblies, whether installed by the city or the customer, shall be assemblies of a model and size approved by the Director. Final approval of any assembly proposed for installation under the terms of this subchapter shall be evidenced by a certificate of approval issued by an approved testing laboratory certifying full compliance with AWWA standards and FCCCHR specifications. The following testing laboratory has been qualified by the Director to test and certify backflow prevention assemblies:

Foundation for Cross-Connection

Control and Hydraulic Research

University of Southern California

University Park

Los Angeles, CA 90089

(B) Backflow prevention assemblies that may be subject to backpressure or back-siphonage that have been fully tested and granted a certificate of approval by said qualified laboratory and are listed on the laboratory's current list of approved backflow prevention assemblies may be used without further pretesting or qualification. Testing laboratories other than the laboratory listed above will be added to an approved list as they are deemed qualified by the Director.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

(A) The customer/owner shall be responsible for all costs relating to the purchase, installation, repair, replacement and testing of the backflow prevention device(s), and in maintaining the device(s) in a satisfactory operating condition and shall have the device(s) tested at least once a year by a tester possessing a City of Santa Fe Springs business license and certified by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. If the device(s) is found to be defective, the customer shall be responsible for repairing, overhauling, or replacing the backflow device(s). The customer shall keep records of such annual tests, repairs, or overhauls and forward copies to the city's cross-connection control program section. In those instances where the Director deems the hazard to be great enough, the Director may require inspection and testing at a more frequent interval.

(B) All costs relating to the purchase, installation, testing, maintenance, replacement, and repair costs of approved back flow prevention devices necessary to assure compliance with Los Angeles County Code, Title 11 § 11.38.480, the Uniform Plumbing Code, California Administrative Code, and other applicable laws shall be at the expense of the customer/owner.

(C) Any backflow prevention assembly found to be defective shall be repaired or replaced and tested immediately at the customer's expense.

(D) Records of installation, tests, repairs and overhauls shall be kept by the Public Works Department and be available for three years for review and audit by the health agency.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

Any person testing, repairing or installing a backflow prevention device shall have current certification to do so by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and must also possess a current City of Santa Fe Springs business license.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

If the Director finds that a customer's system poses a clear and immediate hazard to the city's water system as a result of a violation of any relevant federal, state or local law or ordinance, and the hazardous, condition is not immediately abated, the Director may authorize the Public Works staff to initiate the procedure for the immediate termination of a customer's water service. The conditions that can create a basis for the immediate termination of service shall include, but not be limited to, any of the following:

(A) The presence of a direct or indirect connection between a potable water system and a sewer system.

(B) The presence of an unprotected direct or indirect connection between a potable water system and a system or equipment containing toxic chemicals or sewage.

(C) The presence of an unprotected direct or indirect connection between a potable water system and an auxiliary water system.

(D) The presence of an unprotected connection between a potable water system and a non-potable, non-pressure system.

(E) The refusal to install an approved backflow prevention assembly within the time frame specified by the Director or the law.

(F) The refusal to test a backflow prevention assembly within the time frame specified by the Director or the law.

(G) The refusal to repair or replace a faulty backflow prevention assembly.

(H) The refusal to correct a violation.

(I) Any other situation that presents an immediate health and safety hazard to the city's water system.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

Where it is necessary to terminate a customer's water service, the Director shall take the steps indicated below depending upon the degree of hazard to public health.

(A) If in the Director's judgement the condition poses an immediate public health hazard, the Director or the Director's designate shall do all of the following:

(1) Attempt to verbally notify the customer.

(2) Immediately discontinue the customer's service.

(3) Immediately notify the state and county health departments of the public health hazard.

(4) Send a certified letter to the customer specifying the corrections to be taken prior to service being restored.

(B) If the customer does not to comply with the terms and conditions of this subchapter and the condition does not create an immediate public health hazard, the Director or the Director's designate shall do all of the following:

(1) Send a certified letter to the customer specifying the corrective action needed, the time period by which it must be completed and the Director's intention to terminate service if the customer fails to comply.

(2) Attempt to verbally notify the customer 24 hours prior to terminating water service.

(3) Upon termination, notify the state and county health departments.

(C) If the customer is unable to comply with the terms and conditions required under division (B)(1) above, the customer may, within ten days from receipt of the certified letter, request a hearing by informing the City Clerk in writing. The City Clerk shall notify the Director of the request for hearing and schedule a hearing at a reasonable time and at the convenience of the City Manager, or designee, but no later than 30 days after receipt of the written request for hearing. The customer's hearing request shall specify the reasons the customer believes the city should not terminate water service, the customer's name, address (plus an address for the receipt of any notices), telephone number, email address and other contact information. The City Clerk shall notify the Director of the hearing date and mail the customer notice, to the address provided by the customer for receipt of notices, at least ten calendar days prior to the hearing. The Director shall transmit to the City Manager, or designee, all records, papers, documents and other materials in support of his or her decision and shall provide a copy thereof to the customer. The City Manager, or designee, may continue such hearing from time to time as deemed necessary. The City Manager, or designee, shall, in writing, affirm, reverse or modify, in whole or in part, any determination or interpretation of the Director. No later than ten calendar days following the hearing, a copy of the City Manager's, or designee's, determination shall be mailed to the customer, and that determination shall be final upon the mailing, by United States Mail, postage prepaid, to the customer's address provided for receipt of notices.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)

All remedies available to the city are cumulative. The exercise of one remedy shall not foreclose use of another. Remedies may be used singly or in combination. In addition, the city may exercise any rights it has at law or equity.

(Ord. 1129, passed 6-20-23)