With temperatures heading south for the winter, business owners are reminded of irrigation standards that require rain and freeze sensors to be in place by Jan. 1. This requirement is part of the city’s irrigation standards, adopted earlier this year, to promote water conservation, ensure future availability of resources and provide safer streets during freezing temperatures.
In addition, residents are reminded that as of Jan. 1, new irrigation systems should be designed and installed by a licensed irrigator. Homeowners may continue to install their own systems, but must comply with state regulations. The installation of a new system requires a permit and payment of the associated fee. Because of the new plan review and inspection requirements placed on the city, the fee has been adjusted to $100 for residential systems and $150 for commercial systems.
New systems must:
- Not spray on structures such as fences or retaining walls
- Not have spray heads located within 4 inches of surfaces such as sidewalks or buildings
- Not spray if landscaping is less than 4 feet in width (use bubblers or drip systems)
It is a violation to:
- Irrigate during precipitation or freezing temperatures (rain, snow, etc.)
- Water areas such as sidewalks or streets
- Irrigate with a broken or missing sprinkler head
- Allow system leaks or problems that waste water
Rain and freeze sensors are required:
-
On all new systems (permit fee required)
-
For commercial systems by January 2010
- For residential systems by January 2011
A city permit is not required to install sensors on existing irrigation systems.
