Beginning in the fall of 2017, Utilities will no longer turn irrigation systems on and off at the curb stop. After reviewing the service, it was determined this process is best managed by the customer as part of normal irrigation maintenance, and is not an appropriate use of Utilities’ ongoing operations and costs.

In the past, these accounts were marked as inactive and not billed during winter months. However, to cover the costs of water line maintenance, a monthly base charge will be applied year-round to all sprinkler accounts beginning in 2019.

Owner Responsibilities

The property owner is responsible for the main supply line from the curb stop. This includes the pipe, meter setter, meter valve, water meter, the pit that the water meter is housed in and the meter pit cover and lid(s).

Winterization Tips (Utilities recommends working with a licensed irrigation contractor for winterization and to ensure that your control valve and other components are functioning properly.)

Backflow Device

• Identify a connection point on the backflow device to hook up an air compressor (Always use a connection point on the downstream side of the backflow device (furthest away from water meter).
• Make sure the water is off by opening a test cock on the backflow device. Water will have some residual pressure but the pressure will subside and the flow will decrease.
• Close valves on the backflow device to direct water to the irrigation system and away from the meter pit.
• Do not blow air through the water meter or into the Utilities water main.
• After relieving the water from the irrigation lines, shut down the air compressor line and let the system de-compress, then disconnect the hoses and leave all ball valves at 45 degrees (half on and off).

Learn more about winterization.

Maintenance

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