(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-90), 2-10-2000)
Pursuant to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality rules
and regulations, specifically stated under section 290.44(h) of Title
30 of the Texas Administrative Code, as amended, it is the responsibility
of the water purveyor to ensure that an adequate cross connection
control program is in effect.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-91), 2-10-2000)
Every source of contamination or possible contamination from
any contaminant which originates from or is located at a residential
or commercial establishment, which is connected to any public water
supply or which provides water to the public shall be equipped with
the protection required under the provisions of the article.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-92), 2-10-2000)
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article,
shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where
the context clearly indicates a different meaning. If a word or term
used in this article is not contained in the following list, its definition,
or other technical terms, shall have the meanings or definitions listed
in the most recent adopted edition of the city plumbing code and/or
the "Manual of Cross Connection Control," published by the Foundation
for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research, University of
Southern California.
A physical separation between the free flowing discharge
end of a potable water supply piping and/or appurtenance and an open
or non-pressure receiving vessel, plumbing fixture or other device.
An "approved air-gap separation" shall be at least twice the diameter
of the supply pipe measured vertically above the overflow rim of the
vessel, plumbing fixture or other device and in no case less than
one inch.
An assembly to counteract back-pressure or prevent backsiphonage.
This assembly must appear on the list of approved assemblies issued
by the city.
An atmospheric vacuum breaker consists of a body, a checking
member and an atmospheric opening.
Any water source or system other than the public water system
that may be available in the building or on any property.
The flow of water or other liquids, gases, mixtures, or substances
into the distributing pipes of a potable supply of water, the public
water system, in a direction opposite to the normal flow or from any
sources other than its intended source.
See Approved backflow prevention assembly.
Any elevation of pressure in the downstream piping system
(by any means) above the supply pressure at the point of consideration
which would cause, or tend to cause, a reversal of normal direction
of flow and the introduction of fluids, mixtures or substances from
any source other than the intended source.
The flow of water or other liquids, mixture or substances
into the distribution pipes of a potable water supply system from
any source other than its intended source caused by a sudden reduction
of pressure in the potable water supply system.
Providing adequate drainage for backflow prevention assemblies
installed in vaults through the use of an unobstructed drain pipe.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and its successor
agencies.
Any foreign material, solid or liquid, not common to the
potable water supply which makes the water unfit or undesirable for
human or animal consumption.
The admission of contaminants into the potable water supply.
Any connection, physical or otherwise, between a potable
water supply system and any plumbing fixture or any tank, receptacle,
equipment or device, through which it is possible for any nonpotable,
used, unclean, polluted and contaminated water, or other substances,
to enter into any part of such potable water system under any condition
or set of conditions.
Any nationally approved or recognized device installed to
prevent non-potable water from entering any part of the potable water
system.
An inspection designed to inspect and detect any actual or
potential cross connection hazards and/or exceed the lead action level
in solder or flux, pipe or pipe fittings.
The low or high hazard classification that shall be attached
to all actual or potential cross connections as follows:
Health hazard: An actual or potential threat of contamination
of a physical or toxic nature to the public potable water system or
the consumer's potable water system that would be a danger to public
health.
High hazard: The classification assigned to an actual or
potential cross connection that potentially could allow a substance
that may cause illness or death to backflow into the potable supply.
Low hazard: The classification assigned to an actual or potential
cross connections that potentially could allow a substance that may
be objectionable but not hazardous to one's health to backflow into
the potable water supply.
Pollution hazard: An actual or potential threat to the physical
properties or the water system or the potability of the public or
the consumer's potable water system but which would not constitute
a health or system hazard.
System hazard: An actual or potential threat of severe danger
to the physical properties of the public or consumer's potable water
supply or of a pollution or contamination that would have a detrimental
effect on the quality of the potable water in the system.
The city department of public works.
The city's director of public works or the director's authorized
representative.
A backflow preventer designed to control cross connections
between potable water lines and substances that are objectionable
but not hazardous to health if introduced into the potable water system,
consisting of two independently operating check valves which are spring-loaded
or weighted. The assembly comes complete with a gate valve on each
side of the check valves, as well as test cocks to test the check
valves for tightness.
A tester who is employed by a state approved fireline contractor
and is qualified to test backflow prevention assemblies on firelines
only.
A tester who is qualified to test backflow prevention assemblies
on any domestic, commercial, industrial or irrigation service except
firelines.
A person who is a certified cross connection inspector employed
by or under contract with the city.
Any operation, which may have the potential to introduce
contaminants into a potable water system from a mobile source. These
include, but are not limited to, carpet-cleaning vehicles, water-hauling
vehicles, street-cleaning vehicles, liquid-waste vehicles, power-wash
operations and pest-control vehicles.
All uses not specifically included in the term "residential
use."
Water not fit for drinking, personal, or culinary utilization.
The plumbing code adopted by ordinance by the city.
An internal or plumbing-type cross connection in a consumer's
potable water system that may be either a pollution or a contamination
hazard.
The appropriate backflow prevention within a consumer's water
system at a point at which a cross connection exists.
Water which is satisfactory for drinking, culinary, and domestic
purposes, free from impurities present in amounts sufficient to cause
disease or harmful physiological effects and conforming in bacteriological
and chemical quality to the requirements of the Public Health Service
Drinking Water Standards or the regulations of the public health authority
having jurisdiction.
Any water supply intended or used for human consumption or
other domestic use; also any water that is potable.
The appropriate backflow prevention at the service connection
between the public water system and the water user.
An assembly consisting of a loaded air inlet valve, an internally
loaded check valve, two property located test cocks and two isolation
valves.
Public or privately owned system that supplies water for
human consumption.
The system includes all service lines to the meter, reservoirs,
facilities, and equipment used in the process of producing, treating,
storing, or conveying water for public consumption.
A backflow preventer designed to give maximum protection
against backflow caused by either back-pressure or backsiphonage from
a cross connection where a health hazard exists, consisting of two
independently acting internally loaded check valves, approved check
valves together with a hydraulically-operated, mechanically independent
pressure differential relief valve located between the check valves.
The assembly includes properly located test cocks and tightly closing
shut-off valves at the end of the assembly.
An assembly composed of a line-size approved reduced pressure
principle assembly with a bypass containing a specific water meter
and an approved reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly.
The meter shall register accurately for very low rates of flow.
Single-family dwellings, duplexes, multiple housing, and
apartments where the individual units are each on a separate meter;
or, in cases where two or more units are served by one meter, and
the units are full-time dwellings.
The point of delivery up to and including water meters through
which the public water system furnishes water to a user. After this
point the system has no control over use.
An assembly containing an independently operating, internally
loaded check valve and independently operating, loaded air inlet valve
located on the discharge side of the check valve. This assembly is
to be equipped with a properly located resilient seated test cock
and tightly closing resilient seated shutoff valves attached at each
end of the assembly.
See Public water system.
An actual or potential threat of severe danger to the physical
properties of the public or a consumer's potable water supply, or
an actual or potential threat of pollution or contamination that would
have a detrimental effect on the quality of the potable water in the
system.
A person that is a certified backflow prevention assembly
technician approved by and registered with the city and the Texas
Commission on Environmental Quality.
Heated water that does not have the space to expand.
Water supplied by a public water system to a water user's
system after it has passed through the service connection.
A survey supplied by a public water system to a water user's
local authority designed to identify any possible sources of contamination
to the potable water supply.
A utility customer of the city that is a municipality, town,
village, or other governmental entity, or a private firm contracting
with a governmental entity for the provision of water and/or wastewater
treatment service.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-93), 2-10-2000)
The physical condition of any plant furnishing potable water
to the public for human consumption in the city shall meet all drinking
water standard requirements set by the United States Public Health
Service, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the commission.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-94), 2-10-2000)
(a)
A well,
tank, cistern, or other private water supply connected to the city's
water supply shall at all times meet all water hygiene standards established
by the commission. All connections shall comply with the International
Plumbing Code, as designated in this article.
(b)
The
director shall not be required to supply water through a meter to
a private supply that does not meet the standards of this article.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-95), 2-10-2000)
The discharge of contaminants or a contamination of water or
a harmful quantity of any substance is hereby declared to be a health
nuisance. Backflow entering or threatening to enter the public water
supply from any premise is hereby declared to be a health nuisance.
A backflow prevention assembly installed or maintained in city right-of-way
in violation of this article or an order issued pursuant to this article
is hereby declared to be a nuisance.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-96), 2-10-2000)
The cost of complying with the regulations of this article shall
be the responsibility of the property owners and their lessees. These
costs include, but are not limited to, purchasing, installing, testing,
and repairing of the assembly designed to prevent contamination. These
costs shall also include point of use and premises isolation assemblies.
Any costs incurred by the city to enforce this article are the responsibility
of the property owners and their lessees.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-97), 2-10-2000)
(a)
Property
owners and their lessees are responsible for abiding by the conditions
of this article. If changes are made to a premises' plumbing system,
the property owner shall notify the director.
(b)
The
owner of leased premises is responsible for complying with this article,
unless the owner and lessee, manager, or other third party in control
of any premises agree in writing that such party is responsible, in
which case, the owner must immediately forward a copy of such agreement
to the city. When the person in control of the premises changes, the
owner shall immediately notify the city.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-98), 2-10-2000)
(a)
An
inspector employed by or under contract with the city shall determine
the type and location of backflow assembly to be installed within
the city's water service area.
(b)
At
a minimum, the city shall require a backflow prevention assembly in
each of the following circumstances:
(1)
When the nature and extent of any activity at a premises, the materials
used in connection with any activity at a premises, or materials stored
at a premises could contaminate or pollute the potable water supply.
(2)
When a premises has one or more cross connections.
(3)
When internal cross connections are present that are not correctable.
(4)
When intricate plumbing arrangements are present that make it impractical
to ascertain whether cross connection exist.
(5)
When a premises has a repeated history of cross connections being
established or reestablished.
(6)
When entry to a premises is unduly restricted so that the inspector
cannot make inspections for cross connections with sufficient frequency
to ensure that cross connections do not exist.
(7)
When materials are being used such that, if backflow should occur,
a health hazard could result.
(8)
When an inspector deems installation of an approved backflow prevention
assembly is necessary to accomplish the purpose of this article.
(9)
When an appropriate cross connection survey report form has not been
filed with the director.
(10)
When a fire sprinkler system using non-potable piping material is
connected to the city's water system.
(11)
In all new nonresidential construction at the service connection,
for which the Inspector shall determine the type of the assembly commensurate
with the degree of hazard.
(12)
When a building is constructed on commercial premises, and the end
use of such building is not determined or could change, a reduced
pressure principle backflow prevention assembly shall be installed
at the service connection to provide protection of the public water
supply in the event of the most hazardous use of the building.
(13)
If a premises is required to have backflow prevention assemblies,
but water cannot be turned off during the testing of such assemblies,
the premises shall be equipped with dual backflow prevention assemblies
of the same type so that the city can perform testing, repair, and
maintenance.
(14)
In any used water return system that has received approval from the
director.
(15)
If a point-of-use assembly has not been tested or repaired as required
by this article, a premises isolation assembly shall be required.
(16)
If an inspector determines that additions or rearrangements have
been made to the plumbing system without the proper permits as required
by the International Plumbing Code, premises isolation shall be required.
(17)
In all multistory buildings or any building with a booster pump or
elevated storage tank.
(18)
Retrofitting shall be required on all high hazard connections and
elsewhere, as required by the director.
(c)
Any
premises requiring multiple service connections for adequacy of supply
and/or fire protection shall have a backflow assembly at each service
connection. The assembly shall be commensurate with the degree of
potential hazard that could occur in the event of an interconnect
between any of the buildings on the premises.
(d)
All
backflow prevention assemblies installed after the effective date
of the ordinance from which this article is derived shall be installed
in a manner designed to facilitate ease of inspection by the city.
Any currently installed backflow prevention assemblies which are located
in inaccessible location, or where the tester is subject to physical
danger, shall be relocated to approved locations following current
national guideline standards.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-99), 2-10-2000)
If the director determines that residential premises have a
cross connection, said premises shall be equipped with an approved
backflow prevention assembly installed in accordance with this article.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-100), 2-10-2000)
As a condition of water service, customers shall install, maintain,
and operate their piping and plumbing systems in accordance with the
International Plumbing Code. If there is a conflict between this article
and the International Plumbing Code, the more restrictive provision
shall apply.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-101), 2-10-2000)
Backflow prevention assemblies shall be installed in accordance
with the International Plumbing Code and this article, and shall meet
the following requirements to ensure their proper operation and accessibility:
(1)
Backflow
prevention assemblies shall be installed in accordance with the current
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality rule and these regulations.
The assembly installer must obtain the required plumbing permits and
have the installation inspected by the city.
(2)
No
part of a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly
shall be submerged in water or installed in a location subject to
flooding. If a double check value assembly is installed in a vault,
brass plugs shall be maintained in the test ports at all times and
adequate drainage shall be provided.
(3)
At
facilities which require a backflow prevention assembly to be installed
at the point of delivery of the water supply, such installation of
the assembly must be before any branch in the line and on private
property located just inside the boundary between the city right-of-way
and the landowner's property. The city may specify other areas for
installation of the assembly. Assemblies that must be installed or
are located on city rights-of-way are responsibilities of the business
or entity that the water line is serving.
(4)
The
assembly shall be protected from freezing and other severe weather
conditions.
(5)
Bypass
lines are prohibited. Pipe fittings which could be used for a connection
bypass line must not be installed.
(6)
Premises
where an uninterrupted water supply is critical should be provided
with two assemblies installed in parallel. This should be sized in
such a manner that either assembly will provide the maximum flow required.
(7)
Lines
should be thoroughly flushed prior to installation. A strainer with
blowout tapping may be required ahead of the assembly.
(8)
All
backflow prevention assemblies shall be of a type and model approved
by the director.
(9)
All
vertical installations shall be approved in writing by the director
prior to installation. Assemblies shall be approved by the manufacturer
for this type of installation.
(10)
The
assembly shall be readily accessible with adequate room for maintenance
and testing. Assemblies two inches and smaller shall have at least
a six-inch clearance on all sides of the assembly. Assemblies larger
than two inches shall have a minimum clearance of 12 inches on the
back side, 24 inches on the test cock side, 12 inches below the assembly
and 36 inches above the assembly. All "Y" pattern double check valve
assemblies shall be installed such that the check valves are horizontal
and the test cocks face upward.
(11)
If
the director grants written permission to install the backflow assembly
inside of a building, the assembly shall be readily accessible between
8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except legal holidays.
(12)
If
an assembly is installed pursuant to this section and is four inches
or larger and is installed five feet or higher above the floor, it
shall be equipped with a rigidly and permanently installed scaffolding
acceptable to the director. This installation shall also meet all
applicable requirements set out by the U.S. Occupational Safety and
Health Administration and the state occupational safety and health
laws.
(13)
Upon
completion of installation, the property owner shall notify the director
that the assembly has been inspected and shall submit a copy to test
and inspect the assemblies. The property owner shall register all
backflow assemblies with the director. Registration shall consist
of date of installation, manufacturer, model, serial number of the
backflow prevention assembly, and initial test report.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-102), 2-10-2000)
(a)
The
property owner or his lessee shall have the backflow prevention assembly
tested by a state certified backflow prevention assembly tester who
is approved by the director:
(1)
Immediately after installation;
(2)
Immediately after the assembly is moved;
(3)
A minimum of once a year for all high health hazard connections;
(4)
Every six months for any premises that has a reduced pressure principle
backflow prevention assembly as point-of-use protection without high-hazard
premises isolation protection;
(5)
Every six months for any premises that has a reduced pressure principle
backflow prevention assembly as premises isolation without high-hazard
point-of-use protection;
(6)
Prior to re-occupancy of premises that have been vacated and unoccupied
for one year; and
(7)
Immediately after repair.
(b)
The director may deem it necessary to test assemblies more frequently than prescribed in subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
The
tester shall perform all assembly testing in accordance with city-approved
test procedures.
(d)
A water
use survey may be conducted at any establishment located in the city
which is served by a public water supply or which provides water to
the public. Upon determination that the establishment falls under
the provisions of this article and requires a backflow prevention
assembly, a notice to abate the condition or to install the proper
backflow prevention assembly shall be issued.
(e)
The
city shall not be liable for damage to an assembly that occurs during
testing when damage results from metal fatigue or deteriorated metal
or when damage occurs under standard testing procedures.
(f)
All
results from assembly testing by a certified backflow prevention assembly
tester shall be placed on a form that is purchased by the tester from
the city at an established fee.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-103), 2-10-2000)
(a)
The property owner of premises in which required backflow prevention assemblies are installed, or a third party if the property owner enters and files an agreement as described by section 82-228(b), shall maintain the assemblies in proper working order at all times, including repair as required, in accordance with all applicable regulations of the commission and this article. If a tester finds a needed repair, the property owner (or third party) shall make the repair at the owner or third party's sole cost and expense within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the director and in a manner approved by the director. All maintenance and repair of assemblies shall be done in accordance with all applicable regulations, including this article.
(b)
Backflow
prevention assemblies shall be maintained in a manner that allows
them to be tested by a method that has been approved by the director.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-104), 2-10-2000)
The property owner is responsible for eliminating the possibility
of thermal expansion, if a closed system has been created by the installation
of a backflow assembly.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-105), 2-10-2000)
The city shall not be responsible for any water pressure drop
caused by the installation of a backflow assembly. The department
may give reasonable assistance to a property owner regarding information
on adequate sizing of assemblies and proper plumbing practices to
provide for required pressure and flows for fire protection.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-106), 2-10-2000)
A person who owns or operates any vehicle that uses water from
the city's public water system shall obtain a use permit from the
director before accessing the public water system. The director may
require a fixed air gap or backflow assembly mounted either on the
vehicle or piping.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-107), 2-10-2000)
Every wholesale customer that has a contract for water services
with the city shall have an active, ongoing cross connection program
approved by the director. The city reserves the right to require a
reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or air gap
at the interconnect.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-108), 2-10-2000)
(a)
No
person shall install or maintain a backflow prevention assembly upon
or within any city right-of-way except as provided by this article.
(b)
No
encroachment agreement will be necessary, but all other permits required
by the city Code of Ordinances to perform work in the right-of-way
shall be obtained.
(c)
A backflow
prevention assembly required by this article may be installed on or
within any city right-of-way only if the owner proves to the city
that no other feasible location exists for installing the assembly,
and installing it in the right-of-way will not interfere with traffic
or utilities. The city retains the right to approve the location,
height, depth, enclosure, and other requisites of the assembly prior
to its installation.
(d)
The
assembly shall be installed below or flush with the surrounding grade
except when it is not practicable to install it in this manner. Any
assembly or portion of an assembly which extends aboveground shall
be located no closer than 18 inches to the face of the curb, or two
feet from the property line or streets without curbs.
(e)
A property
owner shall, at the request of the city and at the owner's sole expense,
relocate a backflow prevention assembly which encroaches upon any
city right-of-way when such relocation is necessary for street or
utility construction or repairs or for purposes of public safety.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-109), 2-10-2000)
(a)
All
testers operating within the city shall be certified in accordance
with all applicable regulations of this state and this article. No
person shall operate as a tester within the city without being certified.
(b)
At
the time of certification or recertification, and at any time the
director requests, each person certified as a tester shall furnish
evidence to show that the person is insured and bonded to perform
services on private property, has all current licenses required by
the state and the city to perform the contemplated services, and is
registered with the city.
(c)
Each
tester who applies for registration shall meet the following requirements:
(1)
Has a high school diploma, or equivalent;
(2)
Has attended a backflow assembly tester certification training course
and/or holds a current certification accepted by the commission, has
attended a refresher course, and meets all other requirements of the
state and this article;
(3)
Has successfully passed a written and a hands-on proficiency examination
that meets state requirements;
(4)
Has successfully completed "Permit Confined Space Entry Training"
as specified by the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Agency
at 29 CFR 1910.146;
(5)
Maintains general commercial liability insurance and automobile liability
insurance with the following minimum limits: $250,000.00 per person,
$500,000.00 per accident for bodily injury and $100,000.00 per accident
for property damage, or $500,000.00 per accident if combined;
(6)
Provides evidence to the director to establish that the applicant
has available the necessary tools and equipment to properly test backflow
prevention assemblies; and
(7)
Identifies all test gauges the applicant will use in testing backflow
prevention assemblies.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-110), 2-10-2000)
(a)
Registration
required.
No certified backflow assembly tester shall
operate within the city without first registering with the director.
(c)
Renewal
of registration.
Upon re-certifying, a tester shall renew
his registration with the director. If a certification remains expired
for a period of one year, the tester shall reestablish registration
eligibility.
(d)
Duties
of tester.
A tester shall:
(1)
File the serial number of each of his test kits and certification
with the director;
(2)
Annually have each recorded test kit tested for accuracy and calibrated
to maintain a two percent accuracy factor and provided documentation
to the director recording the same;
(3)
Perform competent and accurate certifications of each backflow prevention
assembly he or she tests and submit complete reports to the director;
(4)
List registered serial numbers of test gauges on tests and maintenance
reports prior to submitting them to the director; and
(5)
Not change the design or operation characteristics of a backflow
prevention assembly.
(e)
Revocation
of certification; causes.
The director may revoke a tester's
certification if the director determines that the tester:
(1)
Has made false, incomplete, or inaccurate assembly testing reports;
(2)
Has used inaccurate gauges;
(3)
Has used improper testing procedures;
(4)
Has expired insurance;
(5)
Is not in compliance with safety regulations;
(6)
Has failed to register the serial numbers of his test kits or failed
to calibrate gauges annually; or
(7)
Has violated any other provision of this article.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-111), 2-10-2000)
(a)
Pursuant
to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Water System Regulations,
a customer service inspection for cross connection control shall be
completed by the city prior to providing continuous water service
in each of the following circumstances:
(1)
Before water service is connected to a newly constructed facility
or previously non-existing premises.
(2)
After any material improvement to buildings or premises.
(3)
After any correction or addition to the plumbing of any facility
or premises.
(4)
At any other time when the city deems it necessary.
(b)
Permanent
water service shall not be supplied to a new construction facility
until after the customer service inspection is completed.
(c)
Temporary
water service which poses a potential cross connection threat to the
potable water supply shall be protected by an approved backflow prevention
assembly.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-112), 2-10-2000)
(a)
RPs
may be utilized at premises where a substance is handled that would
be hazardous to the public health if introduced into the potable water
system. An RP is normally used in locations where an air gap is impractical.
An RP shall be effective against both backsiphonage and back-pressure.
(b)
RPs
shall be sized to provide an adequate supply of water and pressure
for the premises being served. Since flow characteristics are not
standard, installers shall consult manufacturer's specifications for
specific performance data.
(c)
Premises
where interruption of water supply is critical shall be provided with
two assemblies installed in parallel. They shall be sized in such
a manner that either assembly will provide the minimum water requirements
while the two together will provide the maximum flow required.
(d)
Bypass
lines are prohibited. Pipe fittings which could be used for connecting
a bypass line shall not be installed.
(e)
RPs
shall be installed as follows:
(1)
The assembly shall be readily accessible for testing and maintenance
and shall be located in an area where water damage to buildings or
furnishings will not occur from relief valve discharge. An approved
air gap funnel assembly may be used to direct minor discharges away
from the assembly; this assembly shall not control flow in a continuous
relief situation. Drain lines to accommodate full relief valve discharge
flow should be considered.
(2)
RPs are typically installed above grade in well drained areas, but
may be installed below grade if an adequate drain to daylight is provided.
(3)
Enclosures shall be designed for ready access and sized to allow
for the minimum clearances established below. Removable protective
enclosures are typically installed on the smaller assemblies. Daylight
drain ports shall be provided to accommodate full pressure discharge
from assembly.
(4)
All assemblies larger than two inches shall have a minimum of 12
inches on the backside, 24 inches on the test cock side, and the relief
valve opening shall be at least 12 inches plus nominal size of assembly
above the floor or highest possible water level. Headroom of six feet
is required in vaults without a fully removable top. A minimum access
opening of 24 inches square is required on all vault lids.
(5)
Assemblies installed more than five feet above floor level must have
a suitable platform for use by testing or maintenance personnel.
(f)
An
approved air gap shall be located at the relief valve orifice of reduced
pressure principle backflow prevention assemblies. This air gap shall
be at least twice the inside diameter of the incoming supply line
as measured vertically above the top rim of the drain.
(g)
RP
assemblies may be installed in a vault only if relief valve discharge
can be drained to daylight through a boresight type drain. The drain
shall be made of adequate capacity to carry the full rated flow of
the assembly and shall be screened on both ends.
(h)
The
assembly must be protected from freezing and other severe weather
conditions.
(i)
Vertical
installation is prohibited.
(j)
Lines
shall be thoroughly flushed prior to installation. A strainer with
blowout tapping may be required ahead of the assembly.
(k)
The
property owner assumes all responsibility for leaks and damage. The
owner shall ensure that the vault is kept reasonably free of silt
and debris.
(l)
All
RPs shall be tested in accordance with this article. Any premises
that has RPs that are point-of-use protection or premises isolation
without high hazard premises isolation protection shall be tested
every six months. The owner is responsible for all tests on the assembly.
The owner shall notify the director upon installation of any backflow
prevention assembly.
(m)
Variances
from these specifications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
The director may approve a variance only if the alternate materials
or methods provide equivalent protection to those provided by the
requirements of this article. Any variance is prohibited without the
director's prior written approval.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-113), 2-10-2000)
(a)
RPDAs
may be utilized in all installations requiring a reduced pressure
principle backflow prevention assembly and detector metering.
(b)
RPDAs
shall comply with the installation requirements applicable for reduced
pressure principle backflow assemblies (RP).
(c)
The
line-size RP assembly and the bypass RP assembly must each be tested.
A separate test report for each assembly must be completed by the
certified tester.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-114), 2-10-2000)
(a)
DCs
may be utilized at premises where a substance is handled that would
be objectionable but not hazardous to health if introduced into the
potable water system.
(b)
DCs
shall be sized to provide an adequate supply of water and pressure
for the premises being served. Since flow characteristics are not
standard, installers shall consult manufacturer's specifications for
specific performance data.
(c)
Premises
where interruption of water supply is critical shall be provided with
two assemblies installed in parallel. They shall be sized in such
a manner that either assembly will provide the minimum water requirements
while the two together will provide the maximum flow required.
(d)
Bypass
lines are prohibited. Pipe fittings which could be used for connecting
a bypass line shall not be installed.
(e)
DCs
shall be installed as follows:
(1)
The assembly shall be readily accessible with adequate room for testing
maintenance. DCs may be installed below grade, as long as all test
cocks are fitted with brass pipe plugs. All vaults shall be well drained,
constructed of suitable materials, and sized to allow for the minimum
clearances established below.
(2)
Assemblies two inches and smaller shall have at least a three-inch
clearance on bath sides and six inch clearance above and below of
the assembly, and if located in a vault, the bottom of the assembly
shall be not more than 24 inches below grade. All assemblies larger
than two inches shall have a minimum clearance of 12 inches on the
back side, 24 inches on the test cock side, and 12 inches below the
assembly. Headroom of six feet is required in vaults without a fully
removable top. A minimum access opening of 24 inches square is required
on all vault lids. All "Y" pattern double check valve assemblies shall
be installed so that the check valves are horizontal and the test
cocks face upward. These clearance standards apply to all assemblies
installed in vaults, enclosures, and meter boxes.
(3)
Assemblies installed more than five feet above floor level shall
have a suitable platform for use by testing or maintenance personnel.
(f)
Vertical
installations are allowed on sizes up to and including four inches
that meet the following requirements:
(g)
The
assembly shall be protected from freezing and other severe weather
conditions.
(h)
Lines
shall be thoroughly flushed prior to installation. A strainer with
blowout tapping may be required ahead of the assembly.
(i)
The
property owner assumes all responsibility for foundation or basement
wall penetration, leaks, and damage. The owner shall ensure that the
vault is kept reasonably free of silt and debris.
(j)
All
DCs shall be tested in accordance with this article. The owner is
responsible for the initial test upon installation and the city is
responsible for all subsequent tests. The owner shall notify the director
of installation of any backflow prevention assembly.
(k)
Variances
from these specifications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
The director may approve a variance only if the alternate materials
or methods provide equivalent protection to those provided by the
requirements of this article. No variances shall be permitted without
the director's prior written approval.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-115), 2-10-2000)
DDCs may be utilized in all installations requiring a double
check valve assembly and detector metering.
DDCs shall comply with the installation requirements applicable
for double check valve assemblies (DCs).
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-116), 2-10-2000)
(a)
PVBs
may be utilized only at point-of-use protection where substance would
be objectionable but not hazardous to health if introduced into the
potable water system. PVBs protect against backsiphonage only and
shall not be installed where potential exists for back-pressure.
(b)
The
assembly shall be installed a minimum of 12 inches above the highest
use outlet or overflow level downstream from the assembly. See Standard
Detail Sheet 6.
(c)
PVBs
shall not be installed in an area subject to flooding or where damage
would occur from water discharge.
(d)
The
assembly shall be protected from freezing and other severe weather
conditions.
(e)
The
assembly shall be readily accessible for testing and maintenance,
with a minimum clearance of 12 inches all around the assembly.
(f)
PVBs
shall be located between 12 inches and 60 inches above the ground
level.
(g)
A strainer
with blowout tapping may be required ahead of the assembly.
(h)
All
PVBs shall be tested in compliance with this article. The owner is
responsible for the initial test upon installation and the city is
responsible for all subsequent tests. The owner shall notify the director
of installation of any backflow prevention assembly.
(i)
Variances
from these specifications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
The director may approve a variance only if the alternate materials
or methods provide equivalent protection to those provided by the
requirements of this article. Any variance is prohibited without the
director's prior written approval.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-117), 2-10-2000)
(a)
AVBs
provide minimal protection and are approved for very low hazard application
only. AVBs protect against backsiphonage, only, and are prohibited
where there is potential for back-pressure.
(b)
The
assembly shall be installed a minimum of six inches above the highest
use outlet or overflow level downstream from the assembly.
(c)
Shutoff
valves downstream from the assembly are prohibited.
(d)
AVBs
shall be allowed only for those applications where there is less than
12 hours per day of continuous use.
(e)
AVBs
shall not be installed in an area subject to flooding or where damage
may occur from water discharge.
(f)
AVBs
shall be allowed for point-of-use protection only in accordance with
the International Plumbing Code, as adopted. The director does not
recognize AVBs as adequate protection and may require additional protection.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-118), 2-10-2000)
(a)
Air
gap separations provide maximum protection from backflow hazards and
may be utilized at premises where a substance is handled that would
be hazardous to health if introduced into the potable water system.
(b)
An
air gap separation shall be at least twice the diameter of the supply
pipeline measured vertically above the top rim of the receiving vessel;
in no case less than one inch. If splashing is a problem, tubular
screens may be attached or the supply line may be cut at a 45 degree
angle. The air gap distance is measured from the bottom of the angle.
Hoses shall not be allowed.
(c)
Air
gap separations shall not be altered in any way without prior approval
from the director, and shall be available for inspection at all reasonable
times.
(d)
Side
walls, ribs or similar obstructions do not affect air gaps when spaced
from the inside edge of the spout opening a distance greater than
three times the diameter of the effective opening for a single wall,
or a distance greater than four times the effective opening for two
intersecting walls.
(e)
In cases where there are three or more side walls, ribs, or similar obstructions extending from the water surface to or above the horizontal plane of the spout opening other than as specified in subsection (d) of this section, the air gap shall be measured from the top of the wall.
(f)
The
effective opening shall be the minimum cross sectional area at the
seat of the control valve, the supply pipe, or the tubing that feeds
the assembly or outlet. If two or more lines supply one outlet, the
effective opening shall be the sum of the cross sectional areas of
the individual supply lines or the area of the single outlet, whichever
is smaller.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-119), 2-10-2000)
(a)
Outside
hose bibs are required to have an approved backflow device installed
on the bib.
(b)
Commercial
hoses that extend the water line below the overflow level of a sanitary
wastewater fixture must have an approved backflow device installed.
(c)
All
landscape irrigators and installers of lawn sprinkler systems must
comply with the statutory authority and rules and regulations for
landscape from the commission.
(d)
Any
miscellaneous potential sources of cross connections not specifically
covered in this article must be installed according to the International
Plumbing Code and this article.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-120), 2-10-2000)
(a)
All
new installation of fire suppression systems, which utilize the city's
potable water supply, shall have installed an approved backflow prevention
device according to the degree of hazard.
(b)
An
approved double check detector backflow prevention assembly (DCDA)
or reduced pressure detector assemblies (RPDA) shall be the minimum
protection for fire sprinkler systems using piping material that is
not approved for potable water use and/or that does not provide for
periodic flow-through during each 24-hour period, unless a variance
has been issued in writing from the director. A (RPDA) must be installed
if any solution other than the potable water can be introduced into
the sprinkler system.
(c)
It
is the responsibility of all property owners and persons in charge
of any premises to abide by the conditions of this article. In the
event of any changes to the plumbing system, it is the responsibility
of the property owners to notify the regulatory authority. All costs
associated with this article and the purchase, installation, testing
and repairs of (DCDA) or (RPDA) devices is the responsibility of the
property owner and persons in charge of any premises.
(d)
Upon
the approved installation of the (DCDA) or (RPDA) device, a cross
connection test report completed by a licensed fireline tester must
be sent to the attention of the city and include the information required
by this article.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-121), 2-10-2000)
(a)
An
approved double check device backflow prevention assembly (DCD) or
reduced pressure detector assemblies (RPDA) shall be the minimum protection
for fire hydrant water meters which are being used for a temporary
water supply during any construction or other uses which would pose
a potential hazard to the public water supply. A (RPDA) must be installed
if any solution other than the potable water can be introduced into
the sprinkler system.
(b)
It
is the responsibility of all persons engaging in the use and rental
of a fire hydrant water meter to abide by the conditions of this article.
All fire hydrant water meter rentals shall meet the current requirements
as provided for by the city.
(c)
Only
city fire hydrant water meters with approved backflow prevention assemblies
are allowed to be used within the city limits.
(d)
A refundable deposit is required to insure the return of all water meter and backflow assemblies to the city. Failure to return the assemblies can result in the forfeiture of deposit and/or enforcement action being taken against the responsible party, as allowed for in section 82-258.
(e)
All
non-approved fire hydrant meters which are found to be in use in the
city will be confiscated and enforcement action taken against the
responsible party, as allowed for in the enforcement section in this
article.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-122), 2-10-2000)
A person commits an offense if the person:
(1)
Knowingly
installs or maintains backflow prevention assemblies or air gaps in
violation of this article;
(2)
Owns
or is in control of any premises and knowingly fails to install and
maintain backflow prevention assemblies on said premises as required
by this article;
(3)
Owns
or is in control of any premises and knowingly fails or refuses to
cause or allow backflow prevention assemblies to be tested as required
by this article;
(4)
Commits
an offense if the person connects any well, tank, cistern or any other
private water supply with the city's water supply system without written
permission of the director;
(5)
Owns
or is in control of any premises and backflow from the premises enters
the public water supply system;
(6)
Installs
a backflow prevention assembly in violation of this article;
(7)
Fails
to notify the director to inspect a backflow prevention assembly after
its installation as required by this article;
(8)
Fails
to register a backflow prevention assembly as required by this article;
(9)
Knowingly
fails to maintain backflow prevention assemblies in compliance with
this article;
(10)
Knowingly
fails to comply with a repair order issued by the director;
(12)
Knowingly
fails to install a RP in accordance with this article after receiving
notice from the director;
(13)
Fails
to relocate a backflow prevention assembly located in or on any city
right-of-way after receiving a written order from the city to do so;
(14)
Knowingly
operates as a tester within the city without a valid state certification
or without being registered with the city; or
(15)
Reinstates
water service to premises suspended pursuant to this article without
the prior approval of the director.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-123), 2-10-2000)
(a)
Every
person to whom the city directly or indirectly provides water service
shall, during the hours of 8:00 a.m. through 4:30 p.m., permit the
director to enter their premises and buildings for the purpose of
inspecting pipes, fixtures, and the manner in which they are using
water to determine whether they are in compliance with this article.
(b)
If
any water user refuses to allow an inspector access to inspect a premises
during the times listed above, the water user shall install an RP
at the service connection to that premises.
(c)
The
water user shall promptly remove and leave removed any temporary or
permanent obstruction to an inspector's safe and easy access to the
premises upon the director's written or verbal request. The water
user shall pay all costs of clearing such obstruction.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-124), 2-10-2000)
(a)
The
director may, without prior notice, suspend water service to any premises
when such suspension is necessary to stop an actual or threatened
backflow which:
(b)
As
soon as practicable after the suspension of service, the director
shall notify the owner or person in charge of the premises of the
suspension in person or by certified mail, return receipt requested,
and shall order such person to correct the cross connection which
allowed the backflow to occur. When time permits, the director should
notify the owner or person in charge prior to suspending water service.
(c)
If the persons fails to comply with an order issued under subsection (b) of this section, the director may take such steps as the director deems necessary to prevent or minimize damage to the public water supply or to persons.
(d)
The
director shall not reinstate suspended services until:
(1)
The person presents proof, satisfactory to the director, that the
backflow has been eliminated and its cause determined and corrected;
(2)
The person pays the city for all costs the city incurred in responding
to the backflow or threatened backflow; and
(3)
The person pays the city for all costs the city will incur in reinstating
service.
(e)
A person whose service has been suspended may appeal such enforcement action pursuant to section 10-79.
(f)
The
remedies provided by this article are in addition to any other remedies
set out in this article. Exercise of any remedy in this article shall
not be a bar against nor a prerequisite for taking other action against
a violator.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 1(7-125), 2-10-2000)
(a)
The
director may terminate the city-provided water supply of any water
user who violates any of the following conditions:
(1)
Refusing the director or inspector reasonable access to the water
user's premises for the purpose of inspection;
(2)
Hindering or denying the director or inspector access to backflow
prevention assemblies;
(3)
Failing to install and maintain backflow prevention assemblies in
accordance with this article; or
(4)
Failing to install, maintain, and operate piping and plumbing systems
in accordance with the International Plumbing Code.
(b)
The director shall notify a water user of the proposed termination of its water supply. The water user may petition the director for a reconsideration and hearing pursuant to section 10-79.
(c)
Exercise
of this enforcement option by the director shall not be a bar against
nor a prerequisite for taking any other action against the water user.
(d)
The
director shall not reinstate suspended services until the person presents
proof, satisfactory to the director, that the backflow has been eliminated
and its cause determined and corrected.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 2, 2-10-2000)
This article shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinance
of the city, except when the provisions of this article are in direct
conflict with the provisions of such ordinances, in which event the
conflicting provisions of such ordinances are hereby repealed.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 4, 2-10-2000)
Any person, firm, association of persons, company, corporation,
or their agents, servants, or employees violating or failing to comply
with any of the provisions of this article shall be fined, upon conviction,
not more than $2,000.00 for each offense relating to fire safety,
zoning, or public health and sanitation, and not more than $500.00
for all other offenses. Each day that a violation is permitted to
exist shall constitute a separate offense. The penalty provided in
this section shall be cumulative of other remedies provided by state
law including, without limitation, the power of injunction.
(Ord. No. B-641, § 5, 2-10-2000)
All rights and remedies of the city are expressly saved as to
any and all violations of the provisions of this article or any other
ordinances affecting the prevention of backflow into the city's water
system that have accrued at the time of the effective date of Ordinance
No. B-641; and, as to such accrued violations and all pending litigation,
both civil and criminal, whether pending in court or not, under such
ordinances, the same shall not be affected by this article but may
be prosecuted until final disposition by the courts.
