Section 12.14.020 Policy and purpose.

1. The purpose of this ordinance is to protect the public water supply system of the city from the possibility of contamination by isolating real or potential sources of contamination or pollution which may backflow into the public water supply system. This ordinance provides for the maintenance of a continuing program of cross-connection control which will systematically and effectively prevent the contamination or pollution of the potable water supply systems.

2. The manager will be responsible for the implementation of the backflow prevention program as outlined within this ordinance. If in the judgment of the manager an approved backflow prevention device is required for the safety of the public water supply system then the manager shall give notice in writing to the consumer to install said device at each recommended location. The manager shall inspect and approve all installations of the required backflow prevention devices. The costs for purchasing, installing, and maintaining a backflow prevention device shall be the responsibility and sole expense of the consumer. The installation of backflow prevention devices, except for outlet fixture vacuum breakers, shall be by a licensed plumber. Annual testing by a licensed plumber of all backflow prevention devices may be required by the manager. If deemed necessary by the manager that maintenance or repairs are necessary, the owner shall be contacted and issued an order to make all necessary repairs or maintenance. The owner shall complete all maintenance or repairs within thirty (30) days. If the owner fails to make the necessary maintenance or repairs the owner shall be considered in violation of the backflow ordinance and will be subject to disconnection of the service as provided in Section 12.14.100.

3. No person shall install or maintain a water service connection, containing cross-connections to a public water supply system or a consumer's potable water supply system unless such cross-connections are abated or controlled in accordance with this ordinance, and as required by the laws and regulations of the Iowa Department of Health.

4. For the purposes of this backflow prevention ordinance, whenever the manager is to make any decision or interpretation, or whenever reference is made to the fact that the manager is to exercise judgment, such decision, interpretation or judgement shall be in accordance with the provisions of this backflow prevention ordinance, and any other applicable provisions of this code, and state and federal laws. (Ord. 2006-0369;93/U-954)