Water systems deliver potable water to customers. Under certain circumstances, water may flow back from the customer to the public system. Backflow water may be contaminated. This may happen when customers have wells or other pumps that are connected to the same pipes as the public water system. This is called a cross-connection. Backflow preventers are used to control cross-connections. State regulations require such devices whenever there is an onsite well or similar exposure. Chapter 13.20 of the Shasta County Code implements this requirement.
Along with technical changes, the proposed revisions to the existing Chapter 13.20 of the Shasta County Code can be summarized as follows.
1. The proposed ordinance clarifies that an approved backflow prevention device is not required when the auxiliary water supply is a well, which is approved as destroyed by Environmental Health.
2. The proposed ordinance outlines the process for ordering a discontinuation of service when there is a violation, including an appeal process.
3. The proposed ordinance ensures devices are checked annually by the device owner or County staff. The owner may arrange for testing with an appropriately certified testing firm. If the testing is not completed by the owner within specified time periods, the County will complete it.
Public Works will return to the Board at a future date with a fee proposal for cross-connection services.