The following words and terms, when used in this article, have
the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere
between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet conveying water
to a tank, fixture, receptor, sink, or other assembly and the flood
level rim of the receptacle. The vertical, physical separation must
be at least twice the diameter of the water supply outlet, but never
less than 1.0 inch.
The final irrigation plan produced at the completion of an
irrigation system installation and provided to the irrigation system’s
owner or the owner’s representative. The as-built drawing(s)
will reflect all changes made to the original irrigation plan and/or
specifications during the construction process and show all aspects
of the irrigation system including the dimensions, geometry, and location
of all elements of the irrigation system. May be referred to as “record
drawings” or “as-builts.”
An assembly containing an air inlet valve, a check seat,
and an air inlet port. The flow of water into the body causes the
air inlet valve to close the air inlet port. When the flow of water
stops the air inlet valve falls and forms a check against backsiphonage.
At the same time, it opens the air inlet port allowing air to enter
and satisfy the vacuum. Also known as an atmospheric vacuum breaker
backsiphonage prevention assembly.
The prevention of the reversal of flow, due to backsiphonage
or backpressure, of non-potable water from an irrigation system into
the potable water supply.
A mechanical assembly used to prevent backflow into a potable
water system. The type of assembly used is based on the of hazard
(health hazard or non-health hazard) and hydraulic conditions.
Any weekday (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) that is not an approved
holiday for the city.
When the landscape irrigation system has been installed,
all minimum standards met, all tests performed, and the irrigator
is satisfied that the system is operating correctly.
The act of providing advice, guidance, review or recommendations
related to landscape irrigation systems.
A physical connection between a public water system and either
another supply of unknown or questionable quality, any source which
may contain contaminating or polluting substances, or any source of
water treated to a lesser degree in the treatment process.
The act of determining the various elements of a landscape
irrigation system that will include, but not be limited to, elements
such as collecting site specific information, defining the scope of
the project, defining plant watering needs, selecting and laying out
emission devices, locating system components, conducting hydraulics
calculations, identifying any local regulatory requirements, or scheduling
irrigation work at a site. Completion of the various components will
result in an irrigation plan.
The pressure that is required for an emission device to operate
properly. Design pressure is calculated by adding the operating pressure
necessary at an emission device to the total of all pressure losses
accumulated from an emission device to the water source.
An assembly that is composed of two independently acting,
check valves, including tightly closing resilient seated shutoff valves
attached at each end of the assembly and fitted with properly located
resilient seated test cocks. Also known as a double check valve backflow
prevention assembly.
Any device that is contained within an irrigation system
and that is used to apply water. Common emission devices in an irrigation
system include, but are not limited to, spray and rotary sprinkler
heads, and drip irrigation emitters.
The state of being engaged or hired to provide irrigation
services and of being in an employer-employee relationship as defined
by Internal Revenue Code, 26 United States Code Service, §3212(d)
based on the behavioral control, financial control, and the type of
relationship involved in performing employment related tasks.
The spacing of emission devices such that the distance between
them is within the manufacturer’s published radius range and
the water spray reaches from device to device. A deviation of 10%
or less is acceptable.
Cross-connection, potential contamination hazard, or other
situation involving any substance that can cause death, illness, spread
of disease, or has a high probability of causing such effects if introduced
into the potable drinking water supply.
The science of dynamic and static water; the mathematical
computation of determining pressure losses and pressure requirements
of an irrigation system.
A licensed plumbing inspector, water district operator, other
governmental entity, or irrigation inspector who inspects irrigation
systems and performs other enforcement duties for a municipality or
water district as an employee or as a contractor.
A water district operator, governmental entity, or licensed
irrigation inspector who inspects irrigation systems and performs
other enforcement duties for a municipality or water district and
is required to be licensed under chapter 30 of this title (relating
to Occupational Licenses and Registrations) or a licensed plumbing
inspector.
A scaled drawing of a new landscape irrigation system to
be installed. The irrigation plan shall meet all the requirements
in [the Texas Administrative Code] §§344.60–344.65
of title (relating to water conservation; minimum standards for the
design of the irrigation plan; minimum design and installation requirements;
completion of irrigation system installation; maintenance, alteration,
repair, or service of irrigation systems; and reclaimed water) and
is provided as an as-built drawing to the owner or owner’s representative
upon completion of the irrigation system installation.
All activities involving an irrigation system including,
selling designing, installing, maintaining, altering, repairing, servicing,
permitting, consulting services, or connecting an irrigation system
to a water supply.
A system permanently installed on a site and that is composed
of an assembly of component parts for the controlled distribution
and conservation of water to irrigate, reduce dust, and control erosion
in any type of landscape vegetation in any location. This term includes
sprinklers and sprinkler systems used for irrigation. This term does
not include a system that is used on or by an agricultural operation
as defined by Texas Agricultural Code, §251.002.
A person who works under the supervision of a licensed irrigator
to perform irrigation services including the connection of an irrigation
system to a private or public, raw or potable water supply system
or any other water supply, and who is required to be licensed under
chapter 30 of [the Texas Administrative Code] title (relating to occupational
licenses and registrations).
A subdivision of an irrigation system with a matched precipitation
rate based on plant type (turf, shrubs, or trees), microclimate (sun/shade
ratio), topographic features, soil type (sand, loam, clay, or combination)
and hydrological control.
A person who performs irrigation services and/or supervises
the installation of an irrigation system, including the connection
of such system to a private or public, raw or potable water supply
system or any water supply, and who is required to be licensed under
chapter 30 of [the Texas Administrative Code] title (relating to occupational
licenses and registrations).
The irrigator responsible for all irrigation work performed
by an unlicensed irrigation business owner, including, but not limited
to obtaining permits, developing design plans, supervising the work
of other irrigators or irrigation technicians, and installing, selling,
maintaining, altering, repairing, or servicing a landscape irrigation
system.
The science of applying the necessary amount of water to
promote or sustain healthy growth of plant material or turf.
An occupational license that is issued by the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality under title 30, Texas Administrative Code,
chapter 30 to an individual that authorizes the individual to engage
in an activity that is covered by title 30, Texas Administrative Code,
chapter 30.
A pipe within an irrigation system that delivers water from
the water source to the individual zone valves.
A document made available to the irrigation system’s
owner or owner’s representative that contains information regarding
the operation and maintenance of the irrigation system, including,
but not limited to: checking and repairing the irrigation system,
setting the automatic controller, checking the rain or moisture sensor,
cleaning filters, pruning grass and plants away from irrigation emitters,
using and operating the irrigation system, the precipitation rates
of each irrigation zone within the system, any water conservation
measures currently in effect from the water purveyor, the name of
the water purveyor, a suggested seasonal or monthly watering schedule
based on current evapotranspiration data for the geographic region,
and the minimum water requirements for the plant material in each
zone based on the soil type and plant material where the system is
installed.
Any activity that involves opening to the atmosphere the
irrigation mainline at any point prior to the discharge side of any
irrigation zone control valve. This includes, but is not limited to,
repairing or connecting into a main supply pipe, replacing a zone
control valve, or repairing a zone control valve in a manner that
opens the system to the atmosphere. Major alterations also have taken
place if work on the irrigation system will enlarge the total length
of lateral or mainline pipe by 25 percent, if it the work adds zones
to the system, or if at least 25 percent of the system is being replaced
with the same layout.
A control valve located after the backflow prevention assembly
that controls the flow of water to the irrigation system mainline.
The condition in which all sprinkler heads within an irrigation
zone apply water at the same rate.
An irrigation system installed at a location where one did
not previously exist or is a complete replacement of an existing irrigation
system.
A written contract between a contractor or builder and a
licensed irrigator or exempt business owner to perform part or all
of the irrigation services. A pass through contract is also referred
to as a subcontract.
Water that is suitable for human consumption.
Water that is suitable for human consumption and meets the
definition of drinking water in [the Texas Administrative Code] §290.38(23)
of the title (relating to definitions).
An assembly containing an independently operating internally
loaded check valve and an independently operating loaded air inlet
valve located on the discharge side of the check valve. Also known
as a pressure vacuum breaker backsiphonage prevention assembly.
Domestic or municipal wastewater which has been treated to
a quality suitable for beneficial use based on TCEQ regulations, such
as landscape irrigation.
The irrigation plans, contracts, warranty information, invoices,
copies of permits, and all other documents that relate to irrigation
services.
An assembly containing two independently acting approved
check valves together with a hydraulically operating mechanically
independent pressure differential relief valve located between the
two check valves and below the first check valve.
The pressure of water when it is not moving. Generally, this
is the pressure available to the irrigation system.
The on-the-job oversight and direction by a licensed irrigator
who is fulfilling his or her professional responsibility to the client
and/or employer in compliance with local and state requirements. Also
performed by a licensed irrigation technician who is working under
the direction of a licensed irrigator to perform irrigation services.
The design, installation, service, and operation of an irrigation
system in a manner that prevents the waste of water, promotes the
most efficient use of water, and applies the least amount of water
that is required to maintain healthy individual plant material or
turf, reduce dust, and control erosion.
A measurement, in gallons per minute or gallons per hour,
of the actual flow of water through a zone valve, calculated by individually
opening each zone valve and obtaining a valid reading after the pressure
has stabilized. For design purposes, the zone flow is the total flow
of all nozzles in the zone at a specific pressure.
An automatic valve that controls a single zone of a landscape
irrigation system.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22; Ordinance 2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
With this article the city adopts the rules of the Texas State
Irrigation Code, 30 TAC 344, as its local rules for landscape irrigation
design, construction and operation, as well as irrigator licensing,
training, and conduct, and owner responsibility where applicable.
Where the city rules exceed the state code, the city rules shall be
followed.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
(a)Â
Any person who connects an irrigation system to the water supply
within the city or the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction,
commonly referred to as the ETJ, must hold a valid license, as defined
by title 30, Texas Administrative Code, chapter 30 and required by
chapter 1903 of the Texas Occupations Code, or as defined by chapter
365, title 22 of the Texas Administrative Code and required by chapter
1301 of the Texas Occupations Code.
(b)Â
Exemptions: Notwithstanding anything contained in this article to
the contrary, a property owner is not required to be licensed in accordance
with Texas Occupations Code, title 12, §1903.002(e)(1) if he
or she is performing irrigation work in a building or on any premises
owned or occupied by the person. A home or property owner who installs
an irrigation system must meet the standards contained in title 30,
Texas Administrative Code, chapter 344 regarding spacing, water pressure,
spraying water over impervious materials, rain or moisture shut-off
devices or other technology, backflow prevention and isolation valves.
The city may, at any point, adopt more stringent requirements for
a home or property owner who installs an irrigation system. See Texas
Occupations Code §1903.002 for other exemptions to the licensing
requirement.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
Any professional irrigator working in the city must be registered
with the city's development services department. Registration shall
be open to any irrigator with a valid irrigation license from the
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
Any irrigator registered with the city who fails to follow the
rules contained in the state code or this article, will be subject
to registration probation, suspension, or revocation determined by
the utilities director or their designee.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
(a)Â
Prior to the installation of any irrigation system (including but
not limited to; all irrigation systems utilizing or connected to private
water wells, those which use Lake LBJ as a water source, or reuse
water), within the city limits (including extraterritorial jurisdiction)
the persons installing the system must obtain an irrigation permit.
(b)Â
Before an irrigation permit can be issued the licensed irrigator
must submit an application with the city's development services department
and must include irrigation plans required under the adopted 30 TAC
chapter 344 landscape irrigation code.
(1)Â
Upon approval of an irrigation permit application, notice will be
given to the applicant from a city official, informing them of the
required fees and deposit due to issue the permit.
(2)Â
A final inspection of the installed system is required by the city,
if the system fails at the first inspection, fees may be assessed
for each additional inspection to ensure compliance. The additional
inspection charges will be deducted from the initial application deposit.
(Permit application and deposit fees are defined in the city's code appendix A, fee schedule article A3.00 building and development fees.)
(c)Â
The utilities director or designee shall have the authority to suspend
or revoke any permit issued under the provisions of this code whereas
the permit is issued in error, on the basis of inaccurate or incomplete
information, or the permit holder is in violation of any ordinance,
regulation, or any of the provisions of this code.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
(a)Â
An irrigation system that is on an on-site sewage disposal system,
as defined by section 355.002, Health and Safety Code; or
(b)Â
An irrigation system used on or by an agricultural operation as defined
by section 251.002, Agriculture Code.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
The city requires a permit if work on the irrigation system
will enlarge the total length of lateral or mainline pipe by 25 percent,
if the work adds zones to the system, or if at least 25 percent of
the system’s pipe is being replaced with the same layout. A
permit is not needed for retrofitting of irrigation heads on an existing
lateral line which is left in place, regardless of whether sprinkler
head spacing is altered.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
If retrofits or changes to an irrigation system corrects a previous
failure to properly zone an existing irrigation system; or if it replaces
rotors or rotator heads, micro-sprays or sprays on a planting bed
with buried dripline irrigation and reduces consumption while preserving
plant health at previous levels; or reduces consumption rates through
pressure reduction. Permit fees may be refunded if before and after
inspections verify improved efficiency.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
When the system is complete the irrigator will submit a request
in writing for an inspection from the city’s water conservation
inspector, or other designee of the director of utilities for approval.
The request must be filed with the city development services department
or other city office designated by the director within 14 days of
system completion. The irrigator must use an inspection request form
supplied by the city.
(Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22)
If a system fails inspection, the irrigator has 15 days to correct
the deficiencies. The property owner will be notified of the failure
and the deficiencies. The irrigator and the owner will be notified
that the water service may be terminated if deficiencies are not corrected.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
In cases where an irrigator abandons a job after starting work,
any new irrigator taking over the job for completion must apply for
and obtain an irrigation permit. The irrigator completing the job
must provide a warranty on all work done in its entirety.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
(a)Â
Any irrigation system that is connected to the potable water supply
must be connected through a backflow prevention method approved by
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The backflow
prevention device must be approved by the American Society of Sanitary
Engineers; or the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic
Research, University of Southern California; or the International
Plumbing Code; or any other laboratory that has equivalent capabilities
for both the laboratory and field evaluation of backflow prevention
assemblies. The backflow prevention device must be installed in accordance
with the laboratory approval standards or if the approval does not
include specific installation information, the manufacturer’s
current published recommendations.
(b)Â
If conditions that present a health hazard exist, one of the following
methods shall be used to prevent backflow:
(1)Â
An air gap may be used if:
(2)Â
Reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assemblies may be
used if:
(A)Â
The assembly is installed at a minimum of twelve (12) inches above
ground as measured from the ground to the bottom of the relief valve
in a location that will ensure that the assembly will not be submerged;
and
(B)Â
Drainage is provided for any water that may be discharged through
the assembly relief valve.
(3)Â
Pressure vacuum breakers may be used if:
(c)Â
Backflow prevention devices used in applications designated as health
hazards must be tested by a TCEQ licensed backflow prevention assembly
tester at installation and annually thereafter.
(d)Â
If there are no conditions that present a health hazard, double check
valve backflow prevention assemblies may be used to prevent backflow
if the device is tested by a TCEQ licensed backflow prevention assembly
tester upon installation and test cocks are used for testing only.
Any assembly on an irrigation system must be tested after installation
by a TCEQ licensed backflow prevention assembly tester and then every
five-year period thereafter. After each test, a report must be submitted
to the city’s backflow electronic recordkeeping contractor.
If no contractor is employed by the city at the time of the test,
the test record must be submitted to the city utilities department.
(e)Â
If a double check valve is installed below ground:
(1)Â
Test cocks must be plugged, except when the double check valve is
being tested;
(2)Â
Test cock plugs must be threaded, watertight, and made of nonferrous
material;
(3)Â
There must be a clearance between any fill material and the bottom
of the double check valve to allow space for testing and repair; and
(4)Â
There must be space on the side of the double check valve to test
and repair the double check valve.
(f)Â
Any assembly on a residential irrigation system considered a non-health
hazard system, must be tested after installation by a TCEQ licensed
backflow prevention assembly tester and then every five-year period
thereafter.
(g)Â
New installations for a commercial or multifamily property or resident
association common area must be completed using an RP device.
(h)Â
Any assembly on an irrigation system for a commercial or multifamily
property or residents’ associations common areas must be tested
upon installation and then annually.
(i)Â
After each test, a report must be submitted to the city’s backflow
electronic recordkeeping contractor. If no electronic records system
is employed by the city at the time of the test, a paper test record
must be submitted to the city utilities department within 10 days.
However, paper reports will not be accepted if the city employs an
electronic records system.
(j)Â
If an existing irrigation system without a backflow prevention assembly
requires major maintenance, alteration, repair, or service, the system
must be connected to the potable water supply through an approved,
properly installed backflow prevention method before any major maintenance,
alteration, repair, or service is performed.
(k)Â
If an irrigation system is connected to the potable water supply
through a double check valve, pressure vacuum breaker, or reduced
pressure principle backflow assembly and includes and automatic master
valve on the system, the automatic master valve must be installed
on the discharge side of the backflow prevention assembly.
(l)Â
The irrigator shall ensure the backflow prevention device is tested by a licensed backflow prevention assembly tester prior to being placed in service. The test results must be provided to the city within the time limit described in section 13.12.013 and to the irrigation system’s owner or owner’s representative.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22; Ordinance 2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
(a)Â
Before any chemical is added to an irrigation system connected to
the potable water supply, the irrigation system must be connected
through a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly
or air gap.
(b)Â
Connection of any additional water source to an irrigation system
that is connected to the potable water supply can only be done if
the irrigation system is connected to the potable water supply through
a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or an air
gap.
(c)Â
Irrigation system components with chemical additives induced by aspiration,
injection, or emission system connected to any potable water supply
must be connected through a reduced pressure principle backflow device.
(d)Â
Residential irrigation systems may not have a valve or other connection
which would allow their irrigation system source to be switched between
Lake LBJ or any another source and city potable water. Any existing
system with such a connection at the time of adoption of this article
must remove that connection.
(e)Â
If an irrigation system is designed or installed on a property that
is served by an on-site sewage facility, as defined in title 30, Texas
Administrative Code, chapter 285, then:
(1)Â
All irrigation piping and valves must meet the separation distances
from the on-site sewage facilities system as required for a private
water line in title 30, Texas Administrative Code, section 285.91(10);
(2)Â
Any connections using a private or public potable water source that
is not the city’s potable water system must be connected to
the water source through a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention
assembly as defined in title 30, Texas Administrative Code, section
344.50; and
(3)Â
Any water from the irrigation system that is applied to the surface
of the area utilized by the on-site sewage facility system must be
controlled on a separate irrigation zone or zones so as to allow complete
control of any irrigation to that area so that there will not be excess
water that would prevent the on-site sewage facilities system from
operating effectively.
(4)Â
Irrigation must connect to the potable supply from the customer service
line unless a separate irrigation meter is used with a direct tap
to a city main. Exceptions may be allowed so that the system is connected
to interior plumbing if irrigation covers a limited area at the side
or behind a structure.
(5)Â
Location of backflow prevention assembly:
(A)Â
For irrigation systems taking water from a connection to a service
line, backflow assemblies must be located so that there is no more
than 5 feet of pipe length between inlet side of the backflow device
and the connection.
(B)Â
For systems on irrigation meters with taps from the main, the backflow
prevention assembly must be located so that there is no more than
5 feet of pipe length between the inlet side of backflow device and
the water meter.
(C)Â
For irrigation systems connected to a building’s interior plumbing,
a double check valve assembly or RP must be used. In these cases,
the assembly must be installed above ground outside the structure
so that the device is as close as possible to the point of connection
with the interior plumbing.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22)
All irrigation systems shall be designed, installed, maintained,
altered, repaired, serviced, and operated in a manner that will promote
water conservation as defined in the definitions section of this article.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
(a)Â
A minimum soil depth of six inches of soil which includes organic
content such as humus or compost for all turf and planting bed areas
is required for all new residential construction.
(b)Â
No irrigation will be permitted to be installed on gravel or mulch
beds with no plants. If more than 50 percent of the plants in a planting
bed are more than 10 feet apart, irrigation must be done with point
drip. Bubblers may be used on widely spaced individual shrubs in beds.
Irrigation heads may not emit across gravel borders to reach turf.
(c)Â
Landscape irrigation systems must be kept in working order and not
create uneven or wasteful irrigation patterns.
(d)Â
Landscape irrigation may not be installed on artificial turf.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22)
(a)Â
An irrigator shall prepare an irrigation plan for each site where
a new irrigation system will be installed. A paper or electronic copy
(PDF file format) of the irrigation plan must be on the jobsite at
all times during the installation of the irrigation system. A drawing
showing the actual installation of the system is due to each irrigation
system owner after all new irrigation system installations. During
the installation of the irrigation system, variances from the original
plan may be authorized by the licensed irrigator if the variance from
the plan does not:
(b)Â
The irrigation plan must include complete coverage of the area to
be irrigated. If a system does not provide complete coverage of the
area to be irrigated, it must be noted on the irrigation plan.
(c)Â
All irrigation plans used for construction must be drawn to scale.
The plan must be legible and include, at a minimum, the following
information:
(1)Â
The irrigator’s seal, signature, and date of signing;
(2)Â
All major physical features in accordance with subsection (b) of this section including, but not limited to, property lines, streets, sidewalks, buildings, fences, flowerbed lines, and the boundaries of the areas to be watered.
(3)Â
A north arrow;
(4)Â
A legend showing the symbols used in the irrigation plan and an accurate
description of what the symbol represents.
(5)Â
The zone flow measurement for each zone including the zone number
and valve size.
(7)Â
Specifications for all irrigation system components to include, but
not limited to, location, type, size, manufacturer, model number,
operating pressure, flow range and radius of throw;
(8)Â
The scale used; and
(9)Â
The design pressure on the system and the calculations to reach that
number.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22)
(a)Â
No irrigation design or installation shall require the use of any
component, including the water meter, in a way which exceeds the manufacturer’s
published performance limitations for the component.
(b)Â
Spacing.
(1)Â
The maximum spacing between emission devices must not exceed the
manufacturer’s published radius or spacing of the devices by
more than 10 percent.
(2)Â
New irrigation systems shall not utilize above-ground spray emission
devices in landscapes that are less than 48 inches not including the
impervious surfaces in either length or width and which contain impervious
pedestrian or vehicular traffic surfaces along two or more perimeters.
If pop-up sprays or rotary sprinkler heads are used in a new irrigation
system, the sprinkler heads must direct flow away from any adjacent
surface and shall not be installed closer than four inches from a
hardscape, such as, but not limited to, a building foundation, fence,
concrete, asphalt, pavers, or stones set with mortar.
(3)Â
Narrow paved walkways, jogging paths, golf cart paths or other small
areas located in cemeteries, parks, golf courses or other public areas
may be exempted from this requirement if the runoff drains into a
landscaped area. Exemption of such surfaces is subject to a determination
by the irrigation inspector.
(c)Â
Water pressure.
Emission devices must be installed to
operate at the minimum and not above the maximum sprinkler head pressure
as published by the manufacturer for the nozzle and head spacing that
is used. Methods to achieve the water pressure requirements include,
but are not limited to, flow control valves, a pressure regulator,
or pressure compensating spray heads.
(d)Â
Piping.
Piping in irrigation systems must be designed
and installed so that the flow of water in the pipe will not exceed
a velocity of five feet per second for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe.
(e)Â
Irrigation zones.
Irrigation systems shall have separate
zones based on plant material type, microclimate factors, topographic
features, soil conditions, and hydrological requirements.
(f)Â
All irrigation of planting beds on city potable water must install
drip irrigation. Micro-sprays or micro-rotors may not be substituted
for drip irrigation. Systems on lake water are not required to have
drip irrigation systems because of the risk of clogging from lake
debris. Systems with dripline or bubblers may not be converted to
pop-ups spray heads, any type of rotary head, or micro-sprays or rotors,
unless they are on lake water or being converted to lake water.
(g)Â
Matched precipitation rate.
Zones must be designed and
installed so that all of the emission devices in that zone irrigate
at the same precipitation rate.
(h)Â
Irrigation systems shall not spray water over surfaces made of concrete,
asphalt, brick, wood, stones set with mortar, or any other impervious
material, such as, but not limited to, walls, fences, sidewalks, streets,
etc.
(i)Â
Master valve.
When provided, a master valve shall be
installed on the discharge side of the backflow prevention device
on all new installations.
(j)Â
PVC pipe primer solvent.
All new irrigation systems
that are installed using PVC pipe and fittings shall be primed with
a colored primer prior to applying the PVC cement in accordance with
the Uniform Plumbing Code (section 316) or the International Plumbing
Code (section 605).
(k)Â
Rain-freeze or moisture shut-off devices.
All new automatically
controlled irrigation systems must include sensors designed to inhibit
or interrupt operation of the or during freezing conditions. Rain
or moisture shut-off technology must be installed according to the
manufacturer’s published recommendations. Soil moisture sensors,
as well as rain-freeze sensors, will satisfy this requirement. Repairs
to existing automatic irrigation systems that require replacement
of an existing controller must include a rain or moisture sensor.
(l)Â
The requirement for external rain-freeze or soil moisture sensors
applies to advanced “smart” controllers or Wi-Fi-linked
controllers regardless of whether they can receive weather forecasts
and reports to stop runs.
(m)Â
Depth coverage of piping.
Piping in all irrigation systems
must be installed according to the manufacturer’s published
specifications for depth coverage of piping.
(1)Â
If the manufacturer has not published specifications for depth coverage
of piping, the piping must be installed to provide minimum depth coverage
of six inches of select backfill, between the top of the pipe and
the natural grade of the topsoil. All portions of the irrigation system
that fail to meet this standard must be noted on the irrigation plan.
If the area being irrigated has rock at a depth of six inches or less,
select backfill may be mounded over the pipe. Mounding must be noted
on the irrigation plan and discussed with the irrigation system owner
or owner’s representative to address any safety issues.
(2)Â
If a utility, manmade structure, or roots create an unavoidable obstacle,
which makes the six-inch depth coverage requirement impractical, the
piping shall be installed to provide a minimum of two inches of select
backfill between the top of the pipe and the natural grade of the
topsoil.
(3)Â
All trenches and holes created during installation of an irrigation
system must be backfilled and compacted to the original grade.
(n)Â
Wiring irrigation systems.
(1)Â
Underground electrical wiring used to connect an automatic controller
to any electrical component of the irrigation system must be listed
by Underwriters Laboratories as acceptable for burial underground.
(2)Â
Electrical wiring that connects any electrical components of an irrigation
system must be sized according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
(3)Â
Electrical wire splices which may be exposed to moisture must be
waterproof as certified by the wire splice manufacturer.
(4)Â
Underground electrical wiring that connects an automatic controller
to any electrical component of the irrigation system must be buried
with a minimum of six inches of select backfill.
(o)Â
Water contained within the piping of an irrigation system is deemed
to be nonpotable. No drinking or domestic water usage, such as, but
not limited to, filling swimming pools or decorative fountains, shall
be connected to an irrigation system. If a hose bib (an outdoor water
faucet that has hose threads on the spout) is connected to an irrigation
system for the purpose of providing supplemental water to an area,
the hose bib must be installed using a quick coupler key on a quick
coupler installed in a covered purple valve box and the hose bib and
any hoses connected to the bib must be labeled “nonpotable,
not safe for drinking.” An isolation valve must be installed
upstream of a quick coupler connecting a hose bib to an irrigation
system.
(p)Â
Either a licensed irrigator or a licensed irrigation technician shall
be onsite at all times while the landscape irrigation system is being
installed. When an irrigator is not onsite, the irrigator shall be
responsible for ensuring that a licensed irrigation technician is
onsite to supervise the installation of the irrigation system.
(q)Â
Property boundaries.
Spray arcs may not cross property
boundaries.
(r)Â
Irrigation of areas left in the natural state and gravel beds.
Areas not landscaped and deemed “natural” and not
maintained by frequent mowing or trimming may not have permanent irrigation
systems installed on them.
(s)Â
Runoff.
Property owners may not allow runoff to leave
their property.
(t)Â
Excessive run times.
Property owners may not run sprinklers
for excessively long run times for current weather conditions. The
irrigation inspector may require the owner of an irrigation system
to reduce the length of runs if the inspector determines the times
are excessive under conditions present at the time based on precipitation
rates at the site and manufacturer and industry standards applying
to the irrigation system.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22)
|
Customer
|
Outdoor Water Use Days
|
|
Commercial/multifamily
|
Tuesday and Friday
No watering from:
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
|
|
Residential - odd-numbered addresses
|
Wednesday and Saturday
No watering from:
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
|
|
Residential - even-numbered addresses
|
Thursday and Sunday
No watering from:
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
|
(a)Â
All watering, whether by automatic irrigation systems and those using
hose-end sprinklers, must adhere to watering schedules set by the
city administrators with consent of the city council.
(b)Â
New installations of turf and landscaping: If the installer of new
turf or landscaping is requesting an exemption from the current watering
schedule, a request must be made in writing to the utility director
or their appointed designee.
(c)Â
Traffic medians planted only in turf, or turf and established trees,
may never be watered more than 75 minutes total in a seven-day period
if under multi-stream rotary heads; 65 minutes over seven days if
under single-stream rotary heads; and no more than 35 minutes over
seven days if under pop-up spray heads.
(d)Â
Water scheduling restrictions are set forth by the city council and
are guided by LCRA and city water conservation officials. Periodically,
water restrictions may be amended by the utility director to meet
current water conservation needs.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
Upon completion of the irrigation system, the irrigator or irrigation
technician who provided supervision for the on-site installation shall
be required to complete four items:
(1)Â
A final “walk through” with the irrigation system’s
owner or the owner’s representative to explain the operation
of the system;
(2)Â
The maintenance checklist on which the irrigator or irrigation technician
shall obtain the signature of the irrigation system’s owner
or owner’s representative and shall sign, date, and seal the
checklist. If the irrigation system’s owner or owner’s
representative is unwilling or unable to sign the maintenance checklist,
the irrigator shall note the time and date of the refusal on the irrigation
system’s owner or owner’s representative’s signature
line. The irrigation system owner or owner’s representative
will be given the original maintenance checklist and a duplicate copy
of the maintenance checklist shall be maintained by the irrigator.
The items on the maintenance checklist shall include but are not limited
to:
(A)Â
The manufacturer’s manual booklet for the automatic controller,
if the system is automatic and if the manufacturer publishes a booklet
available;
(B)Â
A seasonal (spring, summer, fall, winter) watering schedule based
on either current/real time evapotranspiration or monthly historical
reference evapotranspiration (historical ET) data, monthly effective
rainfall estimates, plant landscape coefficient factors, and site
factors;
(C)Â
A list of components, such as the nozzle, or pump filters, and other
such components; that require maintenance and the recommended frequency
for the service; and
(D)Â
The statement, “This irrigation system has been installed in
accordance with all applicable state and local laws, ordinances, rules,
regulations or orders. I have tested the system and determined that
it has been installed according to the irrigation plan and is properly
adjusted for the most efficient application of water at this time.”
(3)Â
A permanent sticker which contains the irrigator’s name, license
number, company name, telephone number and the dates of the warranty
period shall be affixed to each automatic controller installed by
the irrigator or irrigation technician. If the irrigation system is
manual, the sticker shall be affixed to the original maintenance checklist.
The information contained on the sticker must be printed with waterproof
ink and include: [sic]
(4)Â
The irrigation plan indicating the actual installation of the system
must be provided to the irrigation system’s owner or owner representative.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22)
(a)Â
The licensed irrigator is responsible for all work that such irrigator
performed during the maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of
an irrigation system during the warranty period. The irrigator or
business owner is not responsible for the professional negligence
of any other irrigator who subsequently conducts any irrigation service
on the same irrigation system.
(b)Â
All trenches and holes created during the maintenance, alteration,
repair, or service of an irrigation system must be returned to the
original grade with compacted select backfill.
(c)Â
Colored PVC pipe primer solvent must be used on all pipes and fittings
used in the maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of an irrigation
system in accordance with the Uniform Plumbing Code (section 316)
or the International Plumbing Code (section 605).
(d)Â
When maintenance, alteration, repair or service of an irrigation
system involves excavation work at the water meter or backflow prevention
device, an isolation valve shall be installed, if an isolation valve
is not present.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
If an existing landscape under permanent irrigation is altered,
the landscape irrigation layout must be altered to match the new landscape
if the landscape change means the system would otherwise no longer
follow Texas Administrative Code, chapter 344 rules. Irrigation permit
rules must be followed in cases of renovations to landscaping which
affect irrigation.
(Ordinance 2022-06 adopted 2/15/22)
Reclaimed water may be utilized in landscape irrigation systems
if:
(1)Â
There is no direct contact with edible crops, unless the crop is
pasteurized before consumption;
(2)Â
The irrigation system does not spray water across property lines
that do not belong to the irrigation system’s owner;
(3)Â
The irrigation system is installed using purple components;
(4)Â
The domestic potable water line is connected using an air gap or
a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention device, if approved
by the city and is in accordance with title 30, Texas Administrative
Code, section 290.47(i) (relating to appendices);
(5)Â
A minimum of an eight-inch by eight-inch sign, in English and Spanish,
is prominently posted on/in the area that is being irrigated, that
reads, “RECLAIMED WATER - DO NOT DRINK” and “AGUA
DE RECUPERACION - NO BEBER”;
(6)Â
Backflow prevention on the reclaimed water supply line shall be in
accordance with the regulations of the city and TCEQ’s rules;
(7)Â
The reclaimed water source is permitted to irrigate based on a TCEQ
chapter 210 rules and TCEQ issued permit; and
(8)Â
Authorized through a written agreement with the city defined as the
sole source of the reclaimed water.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
(a)Â
All vehicles used in the performance of irrigation installation,
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service must display the irrigator’s
license number in the form of “LI______” in a contrasting
color of block letters at least two inches high, on both sides of
the vehicle.
(b)Â
All forms of written and electronic advertisements for irrigation
services must display the irrigator’s license number in the
form of “LI______” Any form of advertisement, including
business cards, and estimates which displays an entity’s or
individual’s name other than that of the licensed irrigator
must also display the name of the licensed irrigator and the licensed
irrigator’s license number. Trailers that advertise irrigation
services must display the irrigator’s license number.
(c)Â
The name, mailing address, and telephone number of the commission
must be prominently displayed on a legible sign and displayed in plain
view for the purpose of addressing complaints at the permanent structure
where irrigation business is primarily conducted and irrigation records
are kept.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
(a)Â
All contracts to install an irrigation system must be in writing
and signed by each party and must specify the irrigator’s name,
license number, business address, current business telephone numbers,
the date that each party signed the agreement, the total agreed price,
and must contain the statement, “Irrigation in Texas is regulated
by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), MC-178, P.O.
Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. TCEQ’s website is: www.tceq.state.tx.us.”
All contracts must include the irrigator’s seal, signature,
and date.
(b)Â
All written estimates, proposals, bids, and invoices relating to
the installation or repair of an irrigation system(s) must include
the irrigator’s name, license number, business address, current
business telephone number(s), and the statement: “Irrigation
in Texas is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
(TCEQ) (MC-178), P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. TCEQ’s
website is: www.tceq.state.tx.us.”
(c)Â
An individual who agrees by contract to provide irrigation services
as defined in title 30, Texas Administrative Code, section 344.30
(relating to license required) shall hold an irrigator license issued
under title 30, Texas Administrative Code, chapter 30 (relating to
occupational licenses and registrations) unless the contract is a
pass through contract as defined in title 30, Texas Administrative
Code, section 344.1(36) (relating to definitions). If a pass through
contract includes irrigation services, then the irrigation portion
of the contract can only be performed by a licensed irrigator. If
an irrigator installs a system pursuant to a pass through contract,
the irrigator shall still be responsible for providing the irrigation
system’s owner or through contract, the irrigator shall still
be responsible for providing the irrigation system’s owner or
owner’s representative a copy of the warranty and all other
documents required under this article. A pass through contract must
identify by name and license number the irrigator that will perform
the work and must provide a mechanism for contacting the irrigator
for irrigation system warranty work.
(d)Â
The contract must include the dates that the warranty is valid.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
(a)Â
On all installations of new irrigation systems, an irrigator shall
present the irrigation system’s owner or owner’s representative
with a written warranty covering materials and labor furnished in
the new installation of the irrigation system. The irrigator shall
be responsible for adhering to the terms of the warranty. If the irrigator’s
warranty is less than the manufacturer’s warranty for the system
components, then the irrigator shall provide the irrigation system’s
owner or the owner’s representative with applicable information
regarding the manufacturer’s warranty period. The warranty must
include the irrigator’s seal, signature, and date. If the warranty
is part of an irrigator’s contract, a separate warranty document
is not required.
(b)Â
An irrigator’s written warranty on new irrigation systems must
specify the irrigator’s name, business address, and business
telephone number(s), must contain the signature of the irrigation
system’s owner or owner’s representative confirming receipt
of the warranty and must include the statement: “Irrigation
in Texas is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
(TCEQ), MC-178, P.O. Box 130897, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. TCEQ’s
website is: www.tceq.state.tx.us.”
(c)Â
On all maintenance, alterations, repairs, or service to existing
irrigation systems, an irrigator shall present the irrigation system’s
owner or owner’s representative a written document that identifies
the materials furnished in the maintenance, alteration, repair, or
service. If a warranty is provided, the irrigator shall abide by the
terms. The warranty document must include the irrigator’s name
and business contact information.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
The city’s licensed irrigation inspector, or designated
entity shall enforce this article of the city, and shall be responsible
for:
(1)Â
Verifying that the appropriate permits have been obtained for an
irrigation system and that the irrigator or irrigation technician,
if applicable, are licensed;
(2)Â
Inspecting the irrigation system;
(3)Â
Determining that the irrigation system complies with the requirements
of this article;
(4)Â
Determining that the appropriate backflow prevention device was installed,
tested, and test results are uploaded to the city's electronic recordkeeping
system;
(5)Â
Investigating complaints related to irrigation system installation,
maintenance, alteration, repairs, or service of an irrigation system
and advertisement of irrigation services;
(6)Â
Maintaining records according to this article; and
(7)Â
Ensure all parts of this article are enforced.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
Any item not covered by this article and required by law shall
be governed by the Texas Occupations Code, the Texas Water Code, title
30 of the Texas Administrative Code, and any other applicable state
statute or Texas Commission on Environmental Quality rule.
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
The city council may periodically create or modify a schedule
of fees for obtaining and/or issuing an extension for an irrigation
permit. These fees will be in amounts sufficient to cover the city's
costs in issuing and/or extending the permits, including, but not
limited to, staff time and varying overhead costs. This schedule may
be found in appendix A of this code on the city's website (www.horseshoe-bay-tx.gov).
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19; Ordinance
2023-26 adopted 4/18/2023)
(a)Â
The city shall have the power to administer and enforce the provisions
of this article as may be required by governing law. Any person, firm,
corporation or agent who shall violate a provision of this code, or
fails to comply therewith, or with any of the requirements thereof,
is subject to suit for injunctive relief as well as prosecution for
criminal violations. Any violation of the ordinance codified in this
article is declared to be a nuisance.
(b)Â
Any person violating any provision of article shall, upon conviction,
be fined a sum not exceeding $500.00. Each day that a provision of
this article is violated shall constitute a separate offense. An offense
under this article is a class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine
of up to $500.00.
(c)Â
Nothing in this article shall be construed as a waiver of the city’s
right to bring a civil action to enforce the provisions of this article
and to seek remedies as allowed by law, including, but not limited
to the following:
(Ordinance 2019-27 adopted 4/16/19)
