Chapter 14.20 RECYCLED WATER

The City of Norco is primarily dependent on purchased groundwater for domestic, commercial and industrial uses. The cost to develop new reliable water sources for future developments will be costly. In addition, treatment and conveyance of purchased and imported water supplies may require a considerable increase in the total water cost to the end user. It is in the best interest of the City of Norco to promote and implement innovative water management strategies to conserve water and energy resources while still satisfying the water needs of the community.

The City of Norco is a member agency of the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority (WRCRWA), a joint powers authority, which treats wastewater to recycled water standards. The City of Norco has developed and adopted a Recycled Water Master Plan, which provides the necessary tools required for the planning of additional recycled water facilities and identifying recycled water end users. Staff will present the City Council Ordinance No. 1057 for adoption to establish general provisions related to use of recycled water (“Recycled Water Ordinance”). The basis for the ordinance is California Water Code Section 13551, which states that the continued use of potable water for greenbelt irrigation and certain other nondomestic water uses is an unreasonable use of water if recycled water is available and suitable for such purposes.

The use of water recycled from domestic nonpotable water sources or municipal sewage is regulated by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). California Water Code Section 13551 establishes a State policy to encourage the use of recycled water. Permission to use recycled water is based on the ability to adequately treat domestic wastewater to the point that the recycled water (effluent) meets the requirements of Title 22, Chapter 3 of the California Code of Regulations. Title 22 was promulgated by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) to ensure proper health protection and specify the degree of treatment to match the intended applications.

With the adoption of the Recycled Water Ordinance and in accordance with this chapter, the following rules and regulations have been developed to govern the distribution and use of recycled water for landscape irrigation and other nonpotable uses as they become available.

These regulations address the application of recycled water for irrigation and construction use. Other proposed uses will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Director and the regulatory agencies. In all cases, the City’s approval of any proposed use will be contingent upon the proposed use being acceptable to the regulatory agencies. Only those uses specified in the user agreement are authorized uses. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.005 Policy.

It is the desire of the City of Norco that recycled water be used for any purpose or project approved for recycled water use, when it is economically, financially and technically feasible, as mandated by the Recycled Water Ordinance. Use of potable water for nondomestic uses shall be contrary to the City policy, shall not be considered the most beneficial use of a natural resource and shall be avoided to the maximum extent possible.

The distribution and use of recycled water shall be consistent with the standards and requirements of regulatory agencies for the protection of public health and welfare, and the preservation of the quality of the environment.

All off-site facilities are the responsibility of the Director and shall be under the management and control of the City. Only the Director and those authorized by the Director shall have any right to operate said system and/or property in any manner. The Director shall be responsible for the operation of the off-site distribution system and for the surveillance of all users. Users shall be responsible for the quality assessment of recycled water as it relates to compliance with requirements of the regulatory agencies.

The City reserves the right to take any action with respect to the operation of the recycled water system and at such time as it deems proper to safeguard public health. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.007 Purpose.

The rules and regulations set forth herein pertain to recycled water service provided by the City of Norco within the City’s service area. These rules and regulations establish procedures for the distribution and use of recycled water on public and/or private property.

The City shall enforce these regulations in all matters concerning the use of any recycled water and/or recycled water service. Each and every condition and requirement with respect to the use, connection, disconnection, reconnection, and/or discontinuance of recycled water and/or recycled water service provided by and set forth in these regulations shall apply with equal force and effect to any person, persons, or firm, public or private. There shall be no deviation from these regulations except upon authorization by the City, who will act at all times within any and all regulatory agency constraints. An approved standard appeals procedure shall be provided and action of the Council shall be final.

These regulations may be amended by City Council resolution at any regular or special meeting for cause determined by the Council or City staff, and without the approval of any user or owner. These rules and regulations shall be interpreted in accordance with the purposes, policy, and intent of the Recycled Water Ordinance and the definitions set forth in Section 14.20.010. Moreover, any amendments so made are immediately incorporated by these regulations and will be administered as such. Insofar as these regulations are based upon portions of the California Code of Regulations, Titles 17 and 22, any amendments to those documents are hereby also immediately incorporated by these regulations. These regulations shall take precedence when requirements contained herein are more stringent than those specified in Federal, State or local governing codes, rules and regulations.

Recycled water service from the City is subject to the availability of facilities and adequate capacity in these facilities to move recycled water to the location of the proposed use.

It is the general intent of the City to provide recycled water to all service areas in the City identified in the Recycled Water Master Plan and subsequent additions, revisions or updates of the plan, herein referred to as “Master Plan.” It is the intent of the City that existing owners of property, identified in the Master Plan as being potential users within areas designated for recycled water use, qualify for a recycled water use permit from the City in accordance with these rules and regulations.

Insofar as these rules and regulations support portions of the California Code of Regulations, Title 22, any amendment of the California Code of Regulations which may be pertinent to these rules and regulations shall be incorporated accordingly. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.008 Goals.

Because recycled water is considered unsafe for human consumption, it is important that these rules and regulations contain provisions which minimize or eliminate the possible misuse of the recycled water.

Recycled water shall be distributed and used in a manner that meets all Federal, State, and local requirements and shall be distributed and used to achieve the following:

A. Prevent direct human consumption of recycled water through:

1. Adherence to all applicable rules and regulations.

2. Posting of warning signs by the user.

3. Establishing a cross-connection/backflow prevention program.

B. Control runoff and ponding of recycled water at all times, by controlling the installation and operation of the systems using recycled water.

C. Prevent contamination of potable water supplies.

D. Isolate contamination by other sources, such as wastewater, sludge, urban runoff, or other substances, which may come into contact with the recycled water.

The use of gray water is expressly excluded from these rules and regulations. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.010 Definitions.

The terms hereinafter set forth, unless otherwise specified, shall have the following meanings:

Aerosol. See “Windblown spray.”

“Air-gap separation” means a physical separation between the free-flowing discharge end of a water supply pipeline and an open or nonpressure receiving vessel. The separation shall be at least double the diameter of the supply pipe, measured vertically above the overflow rim of the vessel, and in no case less than one inch. The design shall be to the satisfaction of the City of Norco.

“American Water Works Association (AWWA)” means the American Water Works Association California-Nevada Section.

“Applicant” means any person, firm, corporation, association, agency or authorized representative who applies for recycled water service under the terms of these rules and regulations.

“Application rate” means the rate at which recycled water is applied to an irrigation or construction area expressed in inches per hour (or cm/hr.).

“Approved backflow preventer” means a device installed to protect the potable water supply from contamination by recycled water as approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research, University of Southern California (USC), School of Engineering.

“Approved check valve” means a watertight semiautomatic device which seats readily and completely and is designed to permit flow in only one direction, as approved by California Department of Water Resources and the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research, University of Southern California (USC), School of Engineering.

“Approved double check valve assembly (DC)” means an assembly of at least two independently acting approved check valves including tightly closing shut-off valve assemblies on each side of the check valve assembly and test cocks available for testing the water tightness of each check valve as approved by California Department of Water Resources and the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research, University of Southern California, School of Engineering.

“Approved use” means the use of recycled water in a manner, and for such purpose, as is designated in a recycled water permit issued by the City and in compliance with any and all applicable regulatory agency requirements.

“Approved use area” means a site, with well-defined boundaries, designated in a recycled water permit issued by the City to receive recycled water for an approved use.

As-Built Drawings. See “Record drawings.”

“Automatic system” means an electronic, electrical or mechanical system which includes automatic controllers, valves, and associated equipment required for the programming of effective water application rates when using recycled water.

“Backflow” means a condition which results in the flow of water into City pipelines from a source other than an approved water supply.

“Building Inspection Department” means the City of Norco’s Building Department.

“California Department of Water Resources (DWR)” means the State of California Department of Water Resources.

“Capacity charge” means a one-time charge determined from the schedule of rates of the City, and payable by the customer for obtaining recycled water. The purpose of this charge is for the expansion of recycled water facilities to accommodate future growth.

“City” means the City of Norco Department of Public Works.

“City Council” means the City Council for the City of Norco.

“City Manager” means the City Manager of the City of Norco or his/her designee.

“Commercial use” means the use of recycled water for toilets, urinals, decorative fountains, landscape irrigation and other related uses.

“Connection fee” means a charge imposed by the City for establishing or reestablishing recycled water service, including construction and/or installation of off-site facilities.

“Construction use” means the approved use of recycled water to support construction activities such as soil compaction and dust control during grading.

“Contractor” means a person, persons, or firm entering into a legal agreement with the owner, customer, or the City for the performance of work on all or any portion of facilities subject to these regulations.

“County” means the County of Riverside, California.

“Cross-connection” means any unprotected connection between any part of a potable water system and a recycled water system, and/or between any part of a recycled water system and other sources such as sewers and sludge force mains, whereby contamination may enter either the potable water or recycled water system.

“Customer” means any person, firm, corporation, association, or agency that holds a valid recycled water permit issued by the City for use of recycled water.

Design Area. See “Approved use area.”

“Designated use area” means the area covered by the recycled water permit.

“Designee” means the authorized representative designated by the Director of Public Works.

“Director” means the Director of Public Works or his or her authorized representative (designee).

“Direct beneficial use” means the use of recycled water, which has been transported from the point of production to the point of use without an intervening discharge to waters of the State.

“Discharge” means any release or distribution of recycled water to a sewerage system, or storm drain system.

“Drawings” means the plans, working drawings, detail drawings, profiles, typical cross sections and supplemental drawings or reproductions thereof, approved by the director or designee, which show locations, character, dimensions or details of the work.

“Dual plumbed” means a system that utilizes separate piping systems for recycled water and potable water within a facility and where the recycled water is used for either of the following purposes: (1) to serve plumbing outlets (excluding fire suppression systems) within a building or (2) outdoor landscape irrigation at individual residences.

“GPH” means the rate of recycled water delivery in gallons per hour.

“GPM” means the rate of recycled water delivery in gallons per minute.

“Gray water” means untreated wastewater other than toilet and/or urinal wastes.

“Greenbelt areas” means parcels of recreational or unoccupied public or private lands within the service area, including but not limited to golf courses, cemeteries, parks and landscaping of common areas within the service area.

“HCF” means the unit of water quantity measurement delivered to the user in hundreds of cubic feet.

“Industrial process water” means water used in industrial facilities for rinsing, washing, cooling, circulating, or construction.

“Infiltration rate” means the rate at which water will penetrate the soil surface and enters the soil profile, expressed in inches per hour (or cm/hr.).

“Inspector” means any person authorized by the City to perform inspections of either on-site or off-site facilities or areas prior to construction, during construction, after construction and during operation.

“Landscape impoundment” means a body of water which is stored or used for aesthetic enjoyment or which otherwise serves a function not intended to include bodily contact.

“Municipal Code” means the Municipal Code of the City of Norco.

“Nonpotable water” means water that has not been treated for, or is not acceptable for, human consumption in conformance with Federal, State and local water standards. Nonpotable water includes recycled water.

“Nonrestricted recreational impoundment” means an impoundment of water in which no limitations are imposed on body-contact water sport activities.

“Off-site facilities” means facilities under the control of the City including, but not limited to, recycled water transmission mains, recycled water pipelines, reservoirs, pumping stations, treatment plants, and other appurtenances and property. For recycled water service, off-site facilities shall be those upstream of the point of connection with the customer’s on-site facilities, which typically start at the downstream end of the meter tailpiece.

“On-site facilities” means the facilities under the control of the applicant, owner or customer including, but not limited to, landscape irrigation systems and agricultural irrigation systems. For recycled water service, the on-site facilities shall be those downstream of the recycled water service connection, which shall normally be the downstream end of the meter tailpiece.

On-Site Supervisor. See “Recycled water supervisor.”

“Operations personnel” means any employee of the user, owner, or customer, whether permanent or temporary, or any contracted worker whose regular or assigned work involves the supervision, operation, or maintenance of equipment, facilities, or a system using recycled water.

“Pantone” means a color standard system referenced in the American Water Works Association California-Nevada Section Guidelines for Distribution of Nonpotable Water.

Permit. See “User permit.”

“Permitted capacity of recycled water” means the capacity of recycled water that the user is entitled to use for the area specified in the recycled water user permit.

“Planning Department” means the Planning Department of the City of Norco.

“Point of connection (POC)” means the point of connection of the on-site facilities to the off-site facilities of the recycled water distribution system.

“Ponding” means the retention of recycled water on the surface of the ground or other manmade surfaces, other than the designated use area, for a period of time following the cessation of an approved recycled water use activity such that a hazard or potential hazard to public health results.

“Potable water” means water that is pure, wholesome and suitable for human consumption, and which conforms to the latest edition of the U.S. Public Health Service Drinking Water Standards, the California Safe Drinking Water Act, and any other applicable standards.

“Record drawings” means approved Mylar drawings that correctly show the completed on-site facilities and/or off-site facilities as constructed or modified. These drawings shall show all potable water, recycled water and sewer lines, and other utility lines.

“Recreational impoundment” means a body of water used for recreational activities including, but not limited to, fishing, boating, and/or swimming. Allowable uses will depend on treatment level of the recycled water.

“Recycled water” shall have the definition set forth in Title 22, Division 4 of the California Code of Regulations and shall mean water which, as a result of treatment of wastewater, is suitable for a direct beneficial use or a controlled use that otherwise would not occur. Specifically excluded from this definition is gray water.

“Recycled water distribution lines” means recycled water pipelines and appurtenances acquired or constructed and owned by the City, and used for the conveyance of recycled water between the recycled water transmission mains and the individual recycled water service lines.

“Recycled water facilities” means systems, structures, etc., used in the treatment, storage, pumping, transmission and distribution of recycled water.

“Recycled water service connection” means the point of connection (POC) of the customer’s on-site facilities with the recycled water service line of the City (off-site facilities), which shall normally be the downstream end of the recycled water meter tailpiece.

“Recycled water service line” means the City owned pipeline between its recycled water distribution system and the recycled water service connection.

“Recycled water supervisor” means the individual designated by the user who oversees the use of recycled water on the user’s site. The individual must have completed a City-approved recycled water supervisor program.

“Recycled water transmission mains” means major recycled water pipelines and appurtenances acquired or constructed and owned by the City, and used for the conveyance of recycled water between the water reclamation plant and pump station, reservoir, and/or the recycled water distribution mains.

“Reduced pressure principle backflow prevention device (RPPD)” means a backflow preventer incorporating not less than two check valves, an automatically operated differential relief valve located between the two check valves, a tightly closing shut-off valve on each side of the check valve assembly, and equipped with necessary test cocks for testing as approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research, University of Southern California, School of Engineering (USC).

“Regulatory agencies” means those public entities legally constituted by Federal, State, and local statutes to protect public health and water quality.

“Restricted recreational impoundment” means a body of recycled water in which recreation is limited to fishing, boating, and other non-body-contact water recreation activities.

“Retrofit” means to change or modify in part or whole the existing plumbing of an on-site potable water system in order to serve recycled water.

“Runoff” means the movement of recycled water beyond the boundaries of the designated use area along the surface of the ground or other natural or manmade surfaces including, but not limited to, pedestrian walkways, streets, playground surfaces, grassy slopes and drainage courses.

“RWQCB” means the Regional Water Quality Control Board of the State of California, Santa Ana Region.

“Schedule of rates” means a schedule containing fees, charges, and deposits determined and issued by the City for the uses and services of recycled water.

“Separation” means the horizontal and/or vertical distance between a recycled water pipeline and potable water pipeline, sewer pipeline, or a sludge force main. The separation shall be the clear out-to-out distance between the pipelines in question.

“Service area” means all areas identified for recycled water use in the Recycled Water Master Plan, including all subsequent revisions and updates for use of recycled water within the Norco service area.

Site Supervisor. See “Recycled water supervisor.”

“Spray irrigation” means application of recycled water to land to maintain vegetation or support growth of vegetation by spraying it from sprinklers or orifices in piping.

“SSPWC” means the latest edition of the Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction, including the Regional Supplement Amendments of the County of Riverside, commonly known as the “Green Book.”

“Supplemental supply” means the use of the public potable water system as a backup or supplemental source of water for a dual-plumbed recycled water system. Such use will be allowed only when the connection between the two systems is protected by an air gap separation which complies with the requirements of Sections 7602(a) and 7603(a) of Title 17, California Code of Regulations, and the approval of the public water system has been obtained.

“Surface irrigation” means the application of recycled water by means other than spraying.

“SWRCB” means State of California Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

“Unauthorized discharge” means any release of recycled water that violates these rules and regulations or any applicable Federal, State, or local statutes, regulations, ordinances, contracts or other requirements.

“Use area supervisor” means a person designated and authorized by the user, owner, or customer and who shall be responsible for operating the on-site facilities and for the application of the guidelines, criteria, and standards of these rules and regulations. The designated supervisor shall be certified by the City to operate and maintain the on-site facilities, and to assume the responsibilities defined in Section 14.20.250.

“User” means any individual or entity responsible for handling and use of recycled water.

“User permit” or “recycled water permit” means a permit issued by the City to a recycled water service applicant after the satisfactory completion of the service application procedures set forth in these rules and regulations and in the Recycled Water Ordinance (this chapter). This permit constitutes a service agreement, which legally binds the user to all conditions of these rules and regulations.

“Wastewater” means a combination of water and water-carried wastes, whether treated or untreated, discharged into or permitted to enter a public sewer.

“Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority” means WRCRWA, the wastewater treatment facility that produces recycled water.

“Windblown spray” means dispersed, airborne particles of recycled water resulting from the discharge of recycled water and capable of being transmitted through the air to locations other than those for which the direct application of recycled water was intended. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.020 Description of service.

It is the intent of the City that recycled water service be provided in accordance with these rules and regulations to all areas identified in the Recycled Water Master Plan and subsequent updates, additions, revisions, or amendments for the use of recycled water, as and when such recycled water becomes available.

A. Service Conditions. The City shall control and schedule recycled water distribution to customers. The provision of recycled water service and the use of recycled water by any customer shall be subject to all the terms and conditions of these rules and regulations and the Recycled Water Ordinance (this chapter). (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.030 Application for service.

A. The applicant shall meet with the City at the earliest possible date to determine whether the design area is within the City’s service area. At this time the availability of recycled water and the proximity of the site to the off-site recycled water system will be reviewed. Feasibility for acceptance will be determined prior to submitting a formal application for recycled water service.

B. An applicant meeting the requirements for recycled water service who would like recycled water service, or who is otherwise required to obtain recycled water permit pursuant to the requirements of these rules and regulations, the Recycled Water Ordinance or other applicable laws, shall file an application for recycled water use with the Norco Department of Public Works. The application form shall contain detailed information concerning the applicant as follows:

1. The applicant’s relationship to the property for which recycled water service is requested. In cases where the applicant is not the legal owner of the property, the legal owner shall consent to the application on a supplemental notarized form.

2. The address and legal description of the property covered by the application.

3. The purpose for which the property is or will be used.

4. The proposed use of recycled water within a specifically defined designated use area on the property.

5. The estimated service requirements for recycled water (including access by employees or the public).

6. The designation of a proposed use area supervisor.

7. Any special condition for service pursuant to these rules and regulations.

The application form, signed by the owner, shall be accompanied by plans and specifications per Section 14.20.200 delineating the proposed recycled water designated use area, the proposed location, size, and type of all recycled water service connections and on-site facilities, and any areas in which recycled water must be specifically excluded.

C. Compliance of Application with Regulatory Requirements. The applicant for recycled water shall agree to comply with the requirements of these rules and regulations and any and all applicable Federal, State and local statutes, ordinances, regulations and other requirements.

D. Application Fees and Other Charges. Application fees, deposits, and capacity charges shall be paid in accordance with the adopted City of Norco recycled water rate schedule and shall be subject to all terms and conditions of these rules and regulations.

E. Review of Application by the City. Upon receipt of an application for recycled water service, the City shall review the application and conduct any necessary investigation in order to determine whether the City will provide recycled water service. The City may prescribe requirements in writing to the applicant as to the facilities necessary to be constructed including design, manner of construction, method of operation and conditions of service. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.040 Permits.

A. Permit Issuance. The City shall issue a recycled water permit (user permit) following approval of the customer’s application. The recycled water permit shall incorporate all the provisions of these rules and regulations by express reference, and any additional requirements prescribed by the City, to protect public health and welfare.

The City shall review the plans for the on-site recycled water system (see Section 14.20.200), and shall conduct a field inspection before a permit is granted. The recycled water permit shall become effective only after all construction of recycled water facilities has been completed, tested, and inspected, and the City determines the applicant is in compliance with all permit conditions.

The recycled water permit shall specify all allowable uses of recycled water and all restrictions thereon.

The recycled water permit shall state the capacity of recycled water to be provided to the customer under the permit, and shall contain the express condition that delivery of the full capacity is subject to the City’s supply capabilities. The City shall make a good faith effort to supply full permitted capacity, but shall be held harmless in the event that such a volume is not available for any reason, including, but not limited to, reduced plant production, increased demand, repairs to facilities, or regulatory compliance.

A copy of the user’s current recycled water permit must be available for review at all times, clearly posted at the use site, and/or on file at the user’s office.

B. Permit Renewal. The use of a recycled water permit shall be effective for a period not to exceed four years. The City reserves the right to suspend or terminate the permit, or to modify its terms and conditions, if any of the following occurs:

1. A change of the owner or user of the property covered by the permit.

2. A change in the use of the property covered by the permit.

3. A change in the qualitative characteristics of recycled water.

4. A violation of these rules and regulations and/or other applicable regulations.

5. A change in Federal or State regulations. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.050 Establishing service.

A. Request for Service Connection. Following the completion of construction and/or installation of the recycled water facilities as applicable, the customer shall request the City to install the service connection.

The request for service connection shall be accompanied by all required fees and permits for installation and connection as indicated in the current adopted rate schedule and as appropriate for the size and type of service.

B. Request for Service Start-Up. Following final acceptance of the on-site facilities by the City, the customer shall request service start-up. The request for start-up shall be accompanied by any outstanding payments as per the adopted rate schedule and in addition to those indicated in Section 14.20.030.

C. Temporary Use of Potable Water. At the discretion of the City, potable water may be made available to a customer on a temporary basis, until recycled water is made available. Before the customer receives temporary potable water, a recycled water permit must be obtained. Prior to commencement of recycled water service, an inspection of the on-site facilities shall be conducted by the City to verify that the facilities have been maintained and are in compliance with the recycled water permit. Upon verification of compliance, the customer shall request service start-up.

D. Suspension of Service. The City may suspend or terminate recycled water service at any time the recycled water at the terminal point of the City’s reclamation plant does not meet the requirements of the regulatory agencies. Recycled water service would, in such cases, be restored when the recycled water meets the governing requirements at the terminal point of the treatment plant. In addition, an approved air gap separation must be used in any connection for temporary potable water. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.060 Conditions for recycled water service.

Permits for recycled water service and any connections for service made, as provided in the permit issued under these rules and regulations, shall be subject to the following conditions:

A. Adherence to Permit Conditions. Except as otherwise provided herein, all recycled water will be provided to the user in the quantity and according to the conditions specified in the permit for recycled water service.

B. Control of Facilities (Liability).

1. The City shall control, maintain and repair recycled water service lines up to and including the meters. The user shall repair and maintain in good working condition the recycled water service connections and on-site facilities. The user shall implement a preventative maintenance program designed to ensure the continued operation of all system elements within the guidelines of these rules and regulations. The user shall be responsible for furnishing all maintenance and operations personnel with the system operating and maintenance instructions and record drawings to ensure proper system operation in accordance with system design and these regulations. At least one complete set of this information shall be kept on site or in the nearest field office or maintenance building established by the user. The user is responsible for properly disseminating this information to all appropriate operations personnel. The City shall be entitled to inspect and test all connections and on-site facilities in the manner specified in Section 14.20.270.

2. The City and its agents shall be indemnified and held harmless by the permit holder from and against all claims, damages, losses or expenses arising from the use of recycled water under the permit, from the use of facilities by which recycled water is conveyed, or from the inability or failure of the City to provide recycled water, except that the City shall retain liability for its established sole negligence or willful misconduct.

C. Extension of Distribution Mains. Unless otherwise provided by written agreement between the applicant and the City, the applicant shall pay for all on-site facilities, including their installation, as well as for recycled water service lines and extension of recycled water transmission and distribution mains in order to provide recycled water service to the applicant, in accordance with the provisions of these rules and regulations.

D. Reimbursement Agreement. In cases where an applicant requests recycled water services in areas where the City does not have existing transmission and distribution mains, the applicant’s request for recycled water service shall be addressed as follows:

Where the City determines it is necessary to extend transmission and distribution mains to areas not included within a subdivision or area proposed by the applicant in a permit application, or where the City determines that oversized or additional facilities may be needed to accommodate future development, the City may grant the recycled water permit contingent upon the applicant financing and developing, at its sole cost and expense, such oversized service lines and facilities. In this event, the City and applicant may enter into a reimbursement agreement whereby City will either (1) directly reimburse applicant for the applicant’s cost of the improvements, above what would normally have to be constructed or (2) require subsequent applicants benefiting from such improvements to pay to the City an amount, to be determined by the City Council in accordance with the common practice, which represents the subsequent applicants’ cost above what would normally have to be constructed. The City will then pay to the applicant the amounts collected from the subsequent applicants. A reimbursement agreement may, however, contain a provision stating that it is the City’s obligation to either directly reimburse the applicant or collect such amounts from subsequent developments. The term of any executed reimbursement agreement shall be a maximum of 10 years from the date of execution. The agreement shall not be transferred or assigned except upon written consent of the City Council.

E. Participation Agreement. In cases where the City intends to construct and develop a planned capital improvement project according to a planned timetable, and where the applicant desires to undertake to complete such planned capital improvement project prior to the City’s completion date, the applicant and the City may enter into a participation agreement whereby applicant shall agree to complete the planned capital improvement project in accordance with such design requirements and specifications of the City. The administration costs associated with the administration, financial, engineering and planning assistance to be rendered by the City in connection with the development of the reimbursement and participation agreement entered into pursuant thereto, the developer shall pay to the City an amount equal to the reasonable cost of providing said services as determined by the City.

F. Prohibition of Changes. Except for minor modifications for standard maintenance or emergency repairs, the customer shall not make any changes in or additions to the on-site recycled water system. Any proposed changes or alterations to the existing on-site facilities shall be approved by the City prior to implementation.

G. Services to Common Areas. The City reserves the right to supply recycled water to contiguous areas of a single ownership through a single recycled water service connection.

Common areas owned or operated by homeowners’ associations or similar cooperatives should have only one service connection whenever it is practical, and will be operated as a single ownership.

A recycled water service connection and water meter shall not be used to supply property not covered by the permit authorizing the connection.

H. Subdividing an Approved Service Area.

1. When a property provided with a recycled water service connection and water meter is subdivided, such connection and meter shall be considered as serving the lot or parcel of land on which the meter is located. Additional recycled water distribution mains and/or service lines will be required for all subdivided areas in accordance with these rules and regulations, unless the subdivider provides covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R) properly recorded with the County Recorder for the operation of on-site recycled water facilities serving more than one lot.

2. All recycled water shall be metered. Customers shall be charged at the current rate for the recycled water. All customers shall have and maintain the necessary permits for recycled water use as specified in Section 14.20.060.

3. Every recycled water service connection and meter assembly shall include a curb stop or shut-off valve, as approved by the City, on the inlet side of the meter, which shall be used exclusively by the City for controlling the recycled water supply through the recycled water service line. If the curb stop or shut-off valve is damaged by the customer or the customer’s use, repair and/or replacement by the City shall be at the customer’s expense.

I. Temporary Discontinuation of Recycled Water Service. If real or potential hazards are evidenced at a site utilizing recycled water at any time, the City reserves the right and has the authority to terminate recycled water service without notice to the user in the interest of protecting public health until the situation is remedied.

By reason of circumstances beyond the control of the City, or in order to protect the facilities of the City, or for the protection of public health, safety and welfare of the residents or property owners of the City, recycled water service may be terminated under the conditions set forth below:

1. On a temporary or permanent basis in the manner provided for in Section 14.20.320.

2. On a temporary basis, at any time the recycled water at the terminal point of the City’s water reclamation plant takeoff does not meet the requirements of the regulatory agencies, including but not limited to those prescribed by the California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4. Recycled water service would, in such cases, be renewed at such time that recycled water at the terminal point of the water reclamation plant would again meet the requirements of the regulatory agencies or at such time that the City would supplement the recycled water system from the potable water system in the manner provided by Section 14.20.050.

3. Whenever such an action is warranted by the City pursuant to this chapter.

J. Conditions of Pressure and Service. Pressure and service shall be provided on an as available basis, at the location of the customer’s meter. The City shall establish the potable water and recycled water system pressures. All customers shall hold the City harmless from any and all damages and liabilities caused in whole or in part by pressure conditions, water quality variations, or interruptions in service. It shall be the owner’s responsibility to install booster pumps to increase pressure if necessary. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.070 Size and location of service connections.

The City reserves the right to determine the size and location of recycled water service lines, service connections, and meters and shall also have the right to determine the kind and size of backflow prevention devices and any and all other appurtenances to the service.

The recycled water service lines shall be extended to a curb line, or property line of the customer’s property, abutting upon a public street, highway, road, or City easement in which recycled water distribution mains are installed. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.080 Illegal connections.

No person shall make any connection to recycled water facilities of the City without a permit from the City. Penalties for violations may be assessed according to this chapter. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.090 Meter testing.

Any customer may request that the meter through which the recycled water is being furnished be examined and tested by the City for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not it is correctly registering the amount of recycled water being delivered through it. In such an event, the customer shall make a request to the billing section of the City for a meter test. The meter testing shall be performed in conformance with the standards set by the City for potable water meters pursuant to Section 14.04.180. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.100 Cross-connection prevention.

A. Purpose. The primary purpose of this section is to protect the City’s potable water supply from possible contamination by prohibiting and preventing cross-connections between the potable water distribution system and the recycled water distribution system, in accordance with Title 17, Chapter 5 of the California Code of Regulations. The secondary purpose is to protect the recycled water system from other contaminants.

These provisions are in addition to, and not in lieu of, the controls and requirements of other regulatory agencies, such as the DWR or SWRCB.

Cross-connections between the recycled water system and the potable water system, whether by design, construction practice, or system operation, are strictly prohibited.

B. Backflow Prevention. Regulations governing backflow prevention devices are intended to protect the City’s potable water supplies and are not intended to protect users from potential hazards of cross-connections in the user’s on-site facilities.

1. City-approved backflow prevention for the City’s potable water supply shall be provided by the user in accordance with the specifications of, and as required by, the City of Norco Department of Public Works.

2. Provision, installation, maintenance, and testing of backflow prevention devices shall be the sole responsibility and duty of the customer, and shall be done at the customer’s expense. Testing of backflow prevention devices shall be done at least once a year, or more often, in those instances where successive tests indicate repeated failures. Defective devices shall be repaired or replaced at the expense of the customer. Devices that require repairs, replacement, or relocation must also be tested before putting them into service. A certified tester shall conduct testing. The customer shall submit to the City the original testing certificates as proof of compliance. The City shall keep records of tests and repairs, for a period of at least three years, and such records shall be made available to any concerned regulatory agency on request. All inspection and testing shall be done to the satisfaction of the City and the regulatory agencies concerned.

The installation and inspection of backflow prevention devices shall be done by a certified inspector at the expense of the customer. The customer shall submit to the City the original inspection certificates as proof of compliance. All inspection and testing shall be done to the satisfaction of the City and the regulatory agencies concerned.

C. Type of Protection. The level of protection required is relative to the degree of hazard that the City determines exists on the premises served. The following methods are listed in order of increasing levels of protection: no protection, single check valve, double check valve (DC), reduced pressure principle backflow prevention device (RPPD) and air gap separation (AG). The user may choose a higher level of protection than required by the City. Minimum types required, relative to various situations, are listed below. Situations not listed shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and the appropriate level of protection required shall be determined by the City in consultation with the SWRCB. Backflow protection for the City’s potable water system shall be provided at the water service connection.

D. Backflow Protection Situations.

1. On premises having an auxiliary water supply such as recycled or nonpotable water and there are no interconnections between the auxiliary system and the potable system, a RPPD shall be provided on the potable water service.

2. On premises where the City’s potable water system is used to supplement the recycled water supply, an air gap separation shall be provided.

3. On premises where hazardous materials and toxic substances are stored, handled, or produced in any manner in which substances may enter both the potable water and the recycled water systems, an air gap separation to both systems shall be provided to avoid contamination of the potable water as well as degradation of the recycled water. A RPPD may be provided in lieu of an air gap if approved by the City and SWRCB.

E. Color-Coding Dual or Multiple Water Systems. Where any property subject to recycled water service is served by or contains dual or multiple water systems and piping, the exposed portion of recycled water pipelines, valves, and other fittings shall be painted purple, banded or marked to distinguish clearly which is used for potable water and which is used for recycled water (see also Section 14.20.250). In addition, all new unexposed recycled water pipes installed on any such property shall be similarly colored purple, banded and/or marked. All recycled water appurtenances and facilities shall be posted and/or tagged with bilingual precautionary signage with the wording “CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK”, and “PELIGRO: AGUA IMPURA—NO BEBER”. Main shut-off valves shall be clearly identified to distinguish between recycled water and potable water systems.

F. User’s Designated Recycled Water Supervisor. The operation and surveillance of on-site systems shall be under the management of the on-site recycled water supervisor designated by the user. A qualified person shall be assigned to supervise the use site. The use site supervisor shall attend a recycled water class approved by the City or SWRCB. This supervisor or his representative shall be available during normal working hours, at an address listed with the City for the purpose of hosting an inspection tour or for discussing operational aspects of the system. The on-site supervisor or his representative shall be available via telephone at a number listed with the City for emergency off-hours contact.

The user’s designated recycled water supervisor, whose qualifications and responsibilities are discussed in Section 14.20.250, shall be responsible for the prevention of any cross-connections on the property, and in the event of a cross-connection to the potable water system, the user shall immediately shut off the main recycled water supply valve and depressurize the recycled water system to prevent further mixing with the potable supply, and shall also immediately advise the City of the occurrence of the cross-connection. The local and State health officers shall be immediately advised by the City so that appropriate measures may be taken to control any contamination or pollution.

The user shall assume all responsibilities for the prevention of cross-connections between the on-site facilities and any potable water supply, and shall indemnify and hold the City harmless from and against any claim of damage or loss which is caused or is alleged to have been caused, in whole or in part, by cross-connections of on-site facilities. Notwithstanding this covenant, the user shall be subject to these rules and regulations pertaining to the use of recycled water as otherwise provided herein, including but not limited to those allowing the City or the SWRCB to inspect and approve all on-site recycled water facilities as specified in Sections 14.20.250 and 14.20.270. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.110 Conversion to/from recycled water service.

A. Conversion to Recycled Water Service. Proposals to construct a new on-site recycled water system or to retrofit an existing potable or nonpotable system to serve recycled water for irrigation purposes shall satisfy the requirements of these rules and regulations. Applicants that propose to use recycled water for industrial applications or for other special uses may be required to supply additional information on a case-by-case basis.

When an applicant proposes the conversion of, or is required to convert, any existing potable water irrigation system to a recycled water irrigation system, the City may conduct a comprehensive investigation of the existing on-site facilities. The applicant shall cooperate with the City in its efforts to obtain information, review existing documents, and inspect the on-site facilities.

The City and/or the SWRCB shall review the proposed retrofit drawings and investigation reports, and determine any measures necessary to bring the existing system into full compliance with these rules and regulations. The City and/or the SWRCB may deny issuance of a recycled water use permit if either determines that the proposed conversion cannot be safely made.

B. Conversion from Recycled Water Service. If, due to on-site failure of the recycled water system, or use violations, the City determines it necessary to convert the on-site facilities from recycled water supply to a potable water system, or other water supply, it shall be the responsibility of the user to pay all costs for such conversion, unless determined otherwise by the City. Conversion costs may include but are not limited to the following:

1. Isolation of the recycled water service supply by capping at the recycled water main, or abandoning the service in a manner approved by the City.

2. Installation of approved backflow devices on all potable water meter connections.

3. Removal and replacement of all fittings not suitable for use with potable water with fittings approved for use with potable water.

4. Hydraulic testing and disinfection of the pipeline to be converted.

5. Notification of all personnel involved with the operation of the abandoned recycled water service.

6. Removal of all warning signs and labels.

7. Provision and installation of all potable water lines and facilities and any capacity fees due, as provided for in these rules and regulations. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.120 Authorized uses of recycled water.

The uses of recycled water may include, but are not limited to, landscape irrigation, agricultural irrigation, construction water, industrial process water, commercial use, groundwater recharge, enhancement of wildlife habitat, and recreational impoundment. Each such use must be considered for approval by the City on a case-by-case basis. Determinations as to specific uses to be allowed shall be in accordance with the standards set forth in Title 22, Division 4 of the California Code of Regulations. The City may, at its discretion, set forth specific requirements as conditions to providing such services and/or require specific approval from the appropriate regulatory agencies.

The use of recycled water in swimming pools is not permitted. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.130 Scheduling recycled water.

The City will control and schedule the delivery of recycled water if, in the opinion of the City, scheduling is necessary for purposes including, but not limited to, the maintenance of an acceptable working pressure in the recycled water system and the provision for reasonable safeguards in relation to public health. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.140 Temporary/emergency connections to the potable water system.

If, in the opinion of the City an emergency exists, or is threatened to occur, whereby all or a portion of the water in the recycled water system is not available, the City may approve a temporary connection to the potable water system. Such a temporary connection shall be made in accordance with Sections 14.20.160 and 14.20.250. The decision to allow temporary service to the potable water system shall be at the sole discretion of the City as stipulated in Section 14.20.050, and the City shall maintain and operate all connections.

Before such temporary connection is made, the portion where potable water is to be supplied shall be isolated by an air gap separation from the remainder of the recycled water system. This isolation shall occur at either individual services or on the off-site system, as determined by the City. An approved backflow prevention device shall be installed on the potable water lines in accordance with Section 14.20.100 and all applicable regulations of the governing agencies. The emergency connection shall be removed before connection is reestablished to the recycled water system. The disconnection to the potable water service and the reconnection to the recycled water service must be inspected and approved by a City representative prior to resuming delivery of recycled water service.

On a case-by-case basis, the City of Norco and the SWRCB may approve a temporary potable water connection for a customer’s recycled water system without an air gap. Currently the only other approved connection is a Swivel Ell type connection, which is designed to allow a single water source to serve the customer’s system at any given time. An approved backflow device must be installed on the potable water service prior to the customer’s connection, in accordance with Section 14.20.100. At no time shall the potable water system be connected to a system simultaneously served by a nonpotable source.

The City, at its own discretion, may provide potable water or disinfected raw water in lieu of recycled water. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.150 Additional restrictions on the uses of recycled water.

A. Runoff, Ponding and Overspray.

1. The on-site facilities shall be designed to meet the peak moisture demand of all plant materials used within the design area and to apply irrigation water in a manner compatible with the infiltration rates of the soil types within the approved use area.

Conditions that directly or indirectly cause a runoff of recycled water outside of the approved recycled water use area; cause a ponding of recycled water; or permit windblown spray to pass outside of the approved use area, whether by design, construction practice, or system operation, shall be eliminated or controlled to the greatest extent possible with the use of the best practicable technology or methodology.

2. The use of recycled water shall be limited to those uses permitted by Federal and State law, and to those uses approved by the City for the recycled water service area.

B. Protection of Drinking Fountains and Public Facilities. All drinking fountains, food establishments, or public facilities such as picnic tables located within the approved use area shall be protected from contact with recycled water, whether by windblown spray, mist or by direct application through irrigation or other approved use. The lack of prescribed protection, whether by design, construction practice or system operation, is strictly prohibited.

C. Hose Bibs and Quick Couplers. Hose bibs are prohibited on recycled water systems. The use of quick couplers is at the sole discretion of the City.

D. Fire Hydrants and Fire Services. Recycled water shall not be used to supply fire hydrants or fire services on any on-site system.

E. Irrigation or Impoundment of Recycled Water Near Wells. There shall be no irrigation with or impoundment of recycled water within 100 feet of any well used for potable supply, or 100 feet of any irrigation well unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the City and the regulatory agencies that special circumstances justify lesser distances to be acceptable.

F. Spray Irrigation. No spray irrigation of any recycled water, other than disinfected tertiary recycled water, shall take place within 100 feet of a residence or a place where public exposure could be similar to that of a park, playground, or schoolyard. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.160 Facilities design and construction.

A. Design Guidelines for Off-Site/On-Site Facilities. The design of off-site facilities, including the preparation of plans and specifications, shall be under the supervision of an engineer registered with the State of California. The design of the on-site facilities that will use recycled water and the preparation of plans and specifications shall be under the supervision of a landscape architect, civil engineer or mechanical engineer registered with the State of California. All off-site and on-site recycled water facilities shall comply with the Guidelines for Distribution of Nonpotable Water developed by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) California-Nevada Section, and the SWRCB Guidelines for Use of Recycled Water, and shall also comply with all the requirements, conditions and standards set forth in the current edition of the Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction including the Regional Amendments, and the Standard Drawings of the City of Norco, and the provisions of these rules and regulations, and other related design standards and construction specification guidelines.

The recycled water system, including both off-site and on-site facilities, shall be separate and independent of any potable water system. The City shall inspect the construction of all facilities that will use or receive recycled water to verify that the facilities are constructed in conformance with the approved drawings and these regulations. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.170 Off-site recycled water facilities.

The City of Norco provides all off-site recycled water systems not subject to special assessments. Where extension of recycled water transmission mains or distribution mains is required to accommodate future development, the cost of extension shall be borne by the benefited property owners or the City as provided in Section 14.20.060.

A. Depth of Pipe Cover. Transmission/distribution mains shall be installed a minimum of three feet below the finished grade unless approved otherwise. The depth of cover on service lines shall be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the City’s recycled water standards.

B. Separations. The following separation criteria apply between recycled water pipelines and other utility pipelines.

C. Horizontal. A 10-foot separation of recycled water transmission and distribution pipelines shall be maintained at all times between a potable water pipeline and/or a parallel sanitary sewer, a sewer force main or sludge pipeline. Separation distance shall be measured from the nearest edges of the facilities. If a 10-foot separation is not possible, the approval for special construction requirements shall be obtained from the City and the SWRCB prior to commencement of construction. Common trench construction shall not be permitted. In any event, a horizontal separation less than four feet shall not be allowed.

D. Vertical. On new systems, potable water, recycled water, and sewer lines should be located from the ground surface in order of descending quality. Potable water shall be above recycled water which should be above sewer. Minimum vertical separation should be one foot between top and bottom surfaces of pipes. Exceptions to this general rule are as follows:

1. On irrigation systems where intermittently pressurized recycled water lines (laterals) serve sprinkler heads, the potable water line(s) shall be placed above the recycled water laterals. A minimum one-foot vertical separation should be maintained with additional protection for the potable water line (no joints in the RW line within four feet on either side of the water line).

2. On sites using pressurized irrigation laterals with valve-in-head sprinklers, the potable water line(s) shall be placed above the recycled water laterals if the additional protection (no joints in the RW line within four feet on either side of the water line) is provided for the potable line. Common practices include placing the pipe in a sleeve or automatic flow control/shut-off devices installed and functioning properly on each lateral that crosses a potable line.

E. Color Identification of Recycled Water Pipes. All new transmission and distribution mains in the recycled water system, including service pipelines, valves and other appurtenances, shall either be colored purple and embossed or integrally stamped/marked “CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK”, and “PELIGRO: AGUA IMPURA—NO BEBER”, or be installed with a purple identification tape, and/or a purple polyethylene or vinyl wrap (see Section 14.20.180).

Color-coded identification (caution) tape differentiating the recycled water piping from other utility lines shall be consistent throughout the service area. The purple color shall be Pantone 522.

When converting an existing potable water pipeline to recycled water usage the water pipeline shall be accurately located and tested in coordination with the City and the regulatory agencies, and the necessary actions taken to bring the water pipeline and appurtenances in compliance with these rules and regulations. If the existing pipeline meets approval of the City and the regulatory agencies, except for the pipe identification, the pipeline shall be approved for recycled water service. If verification of the existing pipeline is not possible, the pipeline shall be uncovered, inspected, and identified prior to use. However, all replacements of an off-site distribution and/or delivery system connected to a recycled water irrigation system shall be color-coded for identification in accordance with the provisions of these rules and regulations.

F. Identification Tapes. Identification tapes for protection and identification of the pipeline shall be prepared with black printing on a purple field having the words “CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK”, and “PELIGRO: AGUA IMPURA—NO BEBER” alternately on the tape.

Identification tapes shall be installed over the pipe longitudinally two feet below the finished surface and shall be centered over the pipeline. The identification shall be continuous in its coverage over the pipe. Additionally, in cases where pipe is not clearly marked for recycled water and not purple in color, i.e., ductile iron pipe, identification tape shall be fastened to each pipe length. Taping attached to sections of pipe before they are placed in the trench shall have overlaps sufficient for continuous coverage. Other satisfactory means of securing the tape during backfill of the trench may be used if suitable for the work, as determined by the City. Sample tape markings and the inscriptions that go with it are as shown in the following figure:

CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK

Alternating with

PELIGRO: AGUA IMPURA—NO BEBER

Sample Tape Marking

G. Recycled Water Valve Castings and Covers. All valve covers on off-site recycled water transmission lines must have a recognizable inscription R W cast on the top surface. The inside of covers must be painted purple by using Pantone 522.

H. Color-Coding Exposed Potable and Recycled Water Facilities. All potable and recycled water lines, services, risers and appurtenances located above grade shall be identified by either a paint band system or adhesive vinyl tape. Paint bands shall be one inch wide fusion bonded epoxy coating. Paint bands for the recycled water piping shall be purple in color. Paint bands for the potable water piping shall be blue in color. The paint bands shall be located a maximum of 10 feet apart. The paint shall be resistant to alkalis, acids, chipping, fading and moisture. The coating thickness shall be as recommended by coating manufacturer. Adhesive vinyl tape shall be resistant to alkalis, acids, sunlight and moisture and the tape width shall be a minimum of three inches. The tape shall be color-coded and imprinted with wording to identify the piping system. The tape shall be installed longitudinally along the pipe and spaced at a maximum of 10-foot intervals.

I. Blow-Off and Air and Vacuum Assemblies. Either in-line type or end-of-line type blow-off or drain assembly shall be installed for removing water or sediment from the pipe. Blow-off assemblies must be installed in a low point of the pipeline. The line tap for the assembly shall be no closer than 18 inches to a valve, coupling, joint, or fitting unless it is at the end of the line. The discharge from blow-offs should be designed to drain into a sewer. The discharge of recycled water to storm drains is restricted. If there is no sewer that can receive the discharge from a blow-off, the RWQCB and the SWRCB must be consulted regarding acceptable alternatives. All regulatory agency regulations must be strictly adhered to regarding the discharge and disposal of recycled water in a nonapproved site area. Blow-off assemblies must be provided per Norco Standard Drawings. Air and vacuum valves must be provided in high points of the pipeline system and sized according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Air and vacuum valves must be provided per Norco Standard Drawings. All appurtenances for blow-off and air and vacuum valve assemblies must be consistently color-coded purple by using Pantone 522 and marked to differentiate recycled water facilities from potable water and/or wastewater facilities. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.180 On-site recycled water facilities.

All on-site recycled water facilities which specifically benefit the approved use area shall be provided by the applicant, owner or customer at his or her expense unless an applicable retrofit agreement is in place. The customer shall make, at his or her expense, any modification to the potable water system on the premises which are required by the City in order to permit recycled water service, including but not limited to the installation by the customer of City approved backflow preventers. On-site recycled water facilities shall be designed to accommodate the use of recycled water in those areas where the City has determined that recycled water will be supplied in the future, even though recycled water service is not immediately available when the design area is ready for construction. Provisions shall be made for connection to the recycled water system when it becomes available. In the interim, potable water will be supplied to the on-site facilities through an approved temporary potable water connection in accordance with Section 12.20.050. Such temporary connection to the potable water system shall be provided with an approved reduced pressure backflow prevention device installed by the user to the satisfaction of the City and the SWRCB.

Plans and specifications for customer recycled water facilities shall be submitted to the City as specified in Section 14.20.200.

A. Pressure Requirements. Service pressure availability shall be determined by the City. The applicant shall design on-site facilities for available pressure.

When a reasonable service pressure is not available to on-site facilities not previously served from the City potable water system, the user shall be responsible for correcting the situation by utilizing pressure regulators or booster pumps as necessary. Whenever possible, the City will operate the recycled water system at a lower pressure than the potable water system serving the same zone to minimize contamination in the event of a cross-connection.

B. Booster Pumps. Customers who use booster pumps to increase the operating pressure shall identify the pumping systems as recycled water, avoid release of recycled water in an uncontrolled manner, and provide a proper drainage of the packing seal water. At least one sign in English and Spanish shall be posted on the premises of the booster pumps, which can be readily seen by all operations personnel working in the area. The City may require a backflow prevention device to protect the recycled water distribution system from backpressure that may be caused by using booster pumps.

C. Sealing Water. Potable water shall not be used as seal water for recycled water pump seals.

D. Identification of On-Site Pipes and Fittings. All recycled water pipelines shall be identified by using a purple color code that differentiates them from potable water piping. New on-site recycled water pipelines shall utilize purple colored pipe.

All recycled water control devices shall be tagged with identification tags. Tags shall be weatherproof plastic with minimum dimensions of two and one-quarter inches by two and three-quarters inches, purple in color, with the words “RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK” and “AVISO—AGUA IMPURA—NO TOME” imprinted on one side and the international do not drink symbol on the other side as shown on Norco Standard Drawings, Tag for Recycled Water. Control devices shall be identified as noted on Norco Standard Drawings.

Approved use areas for recycled water service shall also be posted with precautionary notices to warn the public as per Section 14.20.260.

When converting an existing potable water line to recycled water usage, the water line shall be accurately located and tested in coordination with the City and responsible regulatory agencies, and the necessary actions taken to bring the water line and appurtenances in compliance with these rules and regulations. If the existing line meets approval of the City and the responsible regulatory agencies, except for the pipe identification, the line shall be approved for recycled water service. If verification of the existing line is not possible, the line shall be uncovered, inspected, and identified prior to use. However, all replacements of an existing recycled water irrigation system shall be color-coded for identification in accordance with the provisions of these rules and regulations.

E. Pipeline Identification Tapes. A warning tape with metallic backing shall be installed on all recycled water pressure and/or nonpressure service pipelines. A purple tape with black lettering stating: “CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK”, and “PELIGRO: AGUA IMPURA—NO BEBER” shall be fastened to the top of the pipe. The tape shall run continuously the entire length of the pipe and shall be at least three inches or pipe diameter, whichever is less, in width (see Section 14.02.170 for tape samples and colors).

F. Color Code for Recycled Water Pipes. Recycled water pipelines shall be color-coded purple or identified as specified in Section 14.20.170. Also see Section 14.20.170 for exposed piping identification requirements.

When potable water is being supplied to an area, which is also being supplied with recycled water, any exposed potable water main shall also be identified to minimize the potential of a cross-connection to the recycled water system. A color-coded tape, as determined by the City, with the words “CAUTION: DRINKING WATER LINE” and “CUIDADO: TUBERIA DE AGUA POTABLE” shall be adhered directly to the potable water pipe at a maximum spacing of 10-foot intervals. This tape shall be at least three inches in width. The color code for potable water shall be blue to differentiate it from recycled water.

G. Valve Box Identification. All new recycled water valve boxes and covers for irrigation control valves, isolation valves, quick couplers, etc., shall be color-coded purple. Existing covers may be retrofitted with a nameplate marked: “Recycled Water—Do Not Drink—No Tomar” and permanently attached to the cover. Valve cover identification is illustrated on Norco Standard Drawing, Sign/Tag for Recycled Water Irrigation Box Covers/Lid.

H. Separation. Refer to Section 14.20.170 for horizontal and vertical separations.

I. Runoff and Erosion. All recycled water storage facilities owned and/or operated by recycled water users shall be protected against erosion, overland runoff, and other impacts resulting from 100-year-frequency, 24-hour-duration storms to the satisfaction of the City.

J. Peak Flood Levels. All recycled water storage facilities owned and/or operated by recycled water users shall be protected against 100-year-frequency peak stream flows, as defined by the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, to the satisfaction of the City.

K. Storage Facilities. On-site storage tanks used for storing recycled water shall be of adequate design and structural integrity to ensure that leaks or ruptures will not occur in the course of normal use. All aboveground storage tanks shall be contained within a fence or other enclosure that will restrict access by the general public to these facilities at all times. Outlet control with positive shut-off valves shall be provided for each storage facility. All storage facilities should be identified by signs containing the words “CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK”, in English and Spanish, and contain the universal symbol for do not drink. The signs shall conform to the Norco Standard Drawing. Each sign should be posted on the fence and at the entrance to the facility.

L. Swivel Ell Connections. When the recycled water supply is temporarily unavailable, potable water may be used as an emergency source of supply. If a storage tank with an appropriate air gap from the potable water source is not provided for the recycled water system, a swivel ell connection is necessary to allow augmentation of the supply with potable water. The potable water supply must never be directly connected to the recycled water supply. To ensure that this requirement is achieved, a swivel ell connection is used to preclude connecting both sources to the use area at the same time.

Swivel ell connections are illustrated in the Norco Standard Drawing, Swivel Ell for Recycled and Potable Water Supply. In an emergency, the swivel ell is switched from the normal recycled water connection to the potable connection. This procedure is reversed once the recycled water supply is restored. The potable water supply must be protected by an approved reduced pressure principle backflow preventer. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.190 Recycled water for construction use.

A. Permits. The use of recycled water for construction purposes requires approval of the City and the SWRCB. The permit shall be obtained prior to beginning construction. Recycled water must be obtained from an approved water tanker filling station.

B. Uses. Recycled water for construction purposes may only be used for soil compaction during grading operations, dust control and consolidation and compaction of backfill in trenches for nonpotable water, sanitary sewer, storm drain, gas and electric pipelines. Recycled water shall not be used for water jetting and consolidation or compaction of backfill in trenches for potable water pipelines.

C. Equipment. Vehicles used for distributing recycled water for soil compaction and dust control shall be provided with an adequate tank and plumbing system to ensure that leaks and ruptures will not occur in the course of normal use. Control valves shall be provided such that recycled water can be applied in a controlled fashion on the approved use area, and completely retained during transit to all other areas. Spray heads or nozzles shall be provided and configured in such a way that the recycled water is uniformly applied, and runoff, ponding or windblown spray conditions prevented. Each tank shall be equipped with an approved air gap separation. Aboveground recycled water appurtenances, hoses, pipes, meters, etc., shall be color-coded purple and/or stamped/marked “CAUTION RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK” in English and “AVISO, AGUA IMPURA NO TOME” in Spanish and shall be clearly visible. Water towers and trucks utilizing recycled water shall be properly identified and clearly marked with recycled water warning signs to the satisfaction of the City.

Equipment operators shall be instructed about the requirements contained herein and the potential health hazards involved with the use of recycled water. Water trucks, hoses, drop tanks, etc., shall be identified as containing recycled water and not suitable for drinking water.

Recycled water shall not be introduced into any domestic water piping system. No unprotected connection shall be made between equipment containing recycled water and any part of a domestic water system.

Service connections, equipped with recycled water meters, for the construction use of recycled water shall be provided by the City at locations convenient to the user but at the discretion of the City. A secure fence or enclosure must be provided to prevent vandalism or unauthorized use of recycled water. This enclosure shall have an approved sign stating: “CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK” in English and “AVISO, AGUA IMPURA NO TOME” in Spanish.

D. Ponds. Ponds used for storage of recycled water shall be fenced and posted to limit public access. Exterior fences shall be in accordance with the City of Norco Municipal Code.

E. Equipment and Facilities Cleaning. Any equipment or facilities such as tanks, temporary piping or valves, and portable pumps which have been used with recycled water shall be cleaned and disinfected before removal from the approved use area for use at another job site. This disinfection and cleaning shall be performed in the presence of the City Inspector. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.200 Submittals.

The following information shall be submitted to and approved by the City prior to commencing construction of any on-site recycled water system:

A. Customer’s Plans and Specifications. Plans and specifications prepared by a civil engineer, a mechanical engineer or a landscape architect registered with the State of California, for the construction of on-site recycled water facilities shall be submitted to the City and SWRCB for review and approval. The plans shall delineate the proposed recycled water service area, the proposed location, size and type of all recycled water service connections and on-site facilities. The plans shall include the layout of existing potable water pipelines and facilities including any areas in which recycled water must be specifically excluded. A declaration of responsible charge shall be included on the cover sheet as follows:

Declaration of Responsible Charge

I hereby declare that I am the __________ of work for this project, and that I have exercised responsible oversight over the design of this project as defined in section 6703 of the Business and Professions Code and that the design is consistent with current standards.

I understand that the check of project drawings and specifications by the City of Norco and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is confined to a review only and does not relieve me, as the of work, of my responsibilities for project design.

Firm name and address:

Phone No: ______________________ By: ___________ Date______________

Name Registration No. ______________ Expiration Date: ___________________

B. Information on Customer’s Plans. The following information shall be provided on the plans for every customer applying for any recycled water service meter:

1. Application information as specified in Section 14.20.030.

2. Meter size (inches), City to verify.

3. Irrigation area to be served through the recycled meter (square feet or acres).

4. Peak flow through the meter (gpm).

5. Estimate of the yearly recycled water demands (acre-feet or HCF).

6. Service water pressure at the meter as provided by the City (psi).

7. Topographic contours of the site; if not available, sufficient information to determine elevation differences within the site.

8. Direction of drainage.

9. Location of groundwater wells (if applicable).

10. Location of 100-year floodplain (if applicable).

11. Location of potable water lines and sanitary sewers.

12. Location of storm drainage systems.

13. Location of water courses (if applicable).

C. Information Required for Recycled Water Irrigation Systems. If the on-site facilities include a landscape irrigation system the following data for the materials used in the irrigation system shall be included on the plans:

1. Pipe schedule listing pipe sizes and materials of construction.

2. Valve types/sizes.

3. The following information for each type of sprinkler head:

a. Sprinkler radius (feet).

b. Operating pressure (psi).

c. Flow (gpm or gph).

d. Sprinkler pattern.

e. Manufacturer, model number and all pertinent information.

4. Drip irrigation information and all pertinent equipment.

5. Estimates of application rate, acres to be irrigated, soil texture and soil infiltration rate, and information on pressure requirement, hourly delivery rate, and the wetting pattern of sprinklers.

D. Additional Information to Be Shown on Customer’s Plans. Exterior drinking fountains, potable water hose bibs, public eating and cooking facilities, playground equipment, tot lots, and outdoor swimming pools and spa locations shall be shown and identified on the plans. If no exterior drinking fountains or other public facilities are present in the design area, then it shall be specifically stated on the plans that none exist. The design and proposed locations for recycled water “DO NOT DRINK” signs shall be shown on the plans. An additional, detailed signage plan may be required by the City and will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

E. Standard Notes for Inclusion on Customer’s Plans. Provide the following notes on the recycled water improvement and irrigation plans under the heading “Recycled Water General Notes”:

RECYCLED WATER
GENERAL NOTES

1. 48 hours prior to commencement of any excavation on-site improvements, the contractor shall notify the City of Norco Department of Public Works at (951) 270-5607.

2. All work shall be done in accordance with the City of Norco’s Rules and Regulations for the Use of Recycled Water (latest edition), and the State Department of Water Resources requirements.

3. Drinking water fountains and designated outdoor eating areas shall be protected against contact with recycled water spray mist or runoff.

4. Relocate or adjust all irrigation heads to prevent over spraying onto sidewalks, streets, private lots, and nondesignated use areas.

5. Best management practices shall be used to eliminate or control to the best extent possible ponding, runoff, overspray and misting.

6. Nondesignated use areas shall be protected from contact with recycled water, whether by windblown spray or by direct application through irrigation or other use. Lack of protection, whether by design, construction practice, or system operation is strictly prohibited.

7. Hose bibs on recycled water systems are prohibited.

8. Cross connections between recycled water lines and potable water lines are strictly prohibited.

9. Recycled water quick coupling valves shall be designed for use on recycled water systems per the City of Norco’s Rules and Regulations for the Use of Recycled Water.

10. No substitution of pipe materials will be allowed without prior approval by the City.

11. All new irrigation pipe shall be color-coded purple (Pantone 522) stenciled with “CAUTION: RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK” in English and “AVISO, AGUA IMPURA NO TOME” in Spanish. Orient the stenciling to the top of the trench for laterals. Install purple metallic tape over the recycled water mains as described in the City of Norco’s Rules and Regulations for the Use of Recycled Water.

12. Burial of all piping shall be in accordance with the City of Norco’s Rules and Regulations for the use of Recycled Water.

13. Hours for irrigation with recycled water are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 am. The hours for irrigation with disinfected tertiary recycled water may be modified by the local authority. Irrigation with water of a lesser quality than disinfected tertiary recycled water shall be between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

14. When potable water lines and recycled water lines cross, the recycled water line shall be installed within a protective sleeve. The sleeve shall extend 10 feet from each side of the outside edge of the potable line.

15. On new on-site systems, potable water, constant pressure recycled water and sewer lines should be placed preferably ten feet apart. Four-foot separation may be acceptable with approval of City Inspector separation less than four foot will not be acceptable without SWRCB approval. Measurements shall be between facing surfaces, not pipe centerlines.

16. Constant pressure recycled water lines shall cross at least twelve inches below potable water lines and maintain at least twelve inches crossing separation between other utilities.

17. On recycled water systems, all appurtenances (sprinkler heads, valve boxes, etc.) shall be color-coded purple (Pantone #522) per AWWA Guidelines and Section 116815 of the California Health and Safety Code.

18. All recycled water sprinkler control valves and other below grade facilities within boxes shall be tagged with identification tags. Tags shall be weather proof plastic, purple in color, with words “WARNING RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK”, and “AVISO: AGUA IMPURA—NO TOMAR” on the one side and international do not drink symbol on the other. Imprinting shall be permanent and black in color. One tag shall be attached to each valve as follows: Attach to valve stem directly or with plastic tie wrap; or Attach to solenoid wire directly or with plastic tie wrap.

19. The developer/contractor shall conduct a cross-connection control shutdown test and coverage test a minimum of every four years as directed by the City and the SWRCB prior to any use of recycled water.

20. The required cross connection control shutdown test shall be done by either the City’s certified Cross-Connection Specialist or an outside contractor who is a certified Cross-Connection Specialist as defined in Section 14.20.100, of the City of Norco Rules & Regulations for Use of Recycled Water. Copies of inspection reports shall be provided to the City.

21. An annual cross connection inspection will be done by the City subject to approval by the SWRCB. Copies of the inspection reports will be forwarded to the non-inspection party.

22. Prior to conversion to recycled water, an on-site supervisor shall be designated in writing. This individual shall be familiar with plumbing systems within the property, with the basic concepts of back flow/cross-connection protection, and the specific requirements of recycled water systems. The designated “site supervisor” shall attend a Site Supervisor Class approved by the City and SWRCB. Copies of the site supervisor’s certificate with a 24-hour contact telephone number shall be provided to the City and the SWRCB.

In case of emergency contact _________________ at _____________

After hours contact ________________ at ___________________

23. All maintenance personnel shall be educated on a continuous basis as to the presence of recycled water. Personnel must be informed that recycled water is meant for irrigation purposes only and is not approved for drinking purposes, hand washing, cleaning of tools, etc. Given the high turnover rate of employees in the landscape industry, it is important this information be reiterated on an almost daily basis.

24. A physical separation shall be provided between adjacent areas of irrigation with recycled water and potable water. Separation shall be provided by distance, concrete mow strips, chain fences, or other City approved methods.

25. There shall be no direct (pipe-to-pipe) drainage of recycled water into the storm drains.

26. The City inspector shall approve the exact locations of all signs.

(Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.210 Record (as-built) drawings.

The applicant, customer, or owner shall submit as-built record drawings to the City before a request for service start-up is made.

All changes in the work constituting departures from the original design drawings shall be accurately recorded on one set of drawings and submitted to the City. Any changes or modifications to the approved drawings shall be in conformance with these rules and regulations and approved by the City Inspector. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.220 Recycled water inspection procedures.

A. General. This section summarizes the inspection procedures for recycled water use areas.

B. Coverage Test. Upon completion of the construction of any irrigation system, the system is inspected to determine its adequacy to meet health and safety concerns. The coverage test looks at overspray, misting, ponding, runoff, color-coding, and signage. The City’s recycled water designee schedules the coverage test with the use site supervisor. All punch list items will be finalized by City staff. Changes from the approved design are marked on as-built drawings. A SWRCB representative may be an observer during the test. This procedure may be performed concurrently with the shutdown test as described in the following section.

This inspection should also be conducted on sites without potable water, such as landscape maintenance districts (LMDs). On LMDs, the inspection relates to the possibility of the inhalation of recycled water irrigation spray, overspray and misting into nonuse areas, and excessive runoff into area storm drains. The inspection must also include the possibility of cross-connecting the irrigation system and other private potable water systems. The overspray, ponding, and runoff inspection is not necessary on sites that use only drip irrigation. This procedure may be performed separately from the shutdown test as described in the following section.

C. Shutdown Test (Cross-Connection Control Test). The cross-connection control shutdown test is based in law on Sections 13521 and 13523 of the California Water Code, Sections 60314 and 60316 of Title 22, Section 7604 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), and Sections 116800 and 116805 of the California Health and Safety Code. Cross-connection control tests are conducted on all sites containing potable and recycled water systems. The individual responsible for overseeing the cross-connection control test must hold a current American Water Works Association (AWWA) certification as a cross-connection control specialist. A complete cross-connection control test must be scheduled before the initial activation of the site’s recycled water system and be retested at least once every four years thereafter. Also, based on Section 7604 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations, a site walk-through and record check must be scheduled annually for all sites. These tests may be conducted by the water purveyor’s cross-connection control specialist or a contract specialist with oversight by local or SWRCB.

D. Shutdown Test Purpose. The purpose or reason for the test is to demonstrate that at the time of the test there were no discoverable cross-connections between the use site potable water systems and the use site recycled water systems.

E. General Test Procedure. Shut off the recycled water meter(s), depressurize the recycled distribution system, and maintain a pressurized potable water system. Attach 24-hour pressure recorders to points in the recycled water system. If the recycled system repressurizes, it could be cross-connected to the potable water system. The user will provide a test procedure for City and SWRCB review and approval prior to conducting the test.

Due to the possibility of check valves, the procedure is reversed. Pressurize the recycled distribution system and depressurize the potable water system. The test may be completed in eight hours (four hours for each system). If cross-connections are discovered during the test, the cross-connections must be eliminated before the recycled water distribution system is activated (for new systems) or reactivated (for existing systems).

F. New and Retrofit Site Considerations. Cross-connection control tests and use site inspections are conducted on two types of recycled water use sites. The first type is new construction with complete sets of planning and inspection documents. The second is the retrofit with minimal or no planning and inspection documents. Although the basis for the test is the same for each type, the retrofit can pose additional challenges because of the lack of knowledge of the site and the existing plumbing layout. When dealing with retrofits, the site must be carefully inspected by City staff. Minimal plans should be available, either as existing as-builts or as developed by the customer. The site must be surveyed by City staff and/or SWRCB before final submission of the site retrofit plans for review and approval by the City and/or SWRCB. The shutdown testing will be conducted only after final site plan approval.

G. Dual-Plumbing Systems. The results of the cross-connection control test for dual-plumbed systems are compiled in a standard engineering report and distributed to all concerned parties. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.230 Procedures.

A. Notification. Notification to schedule the cross-connection control test depends on the agreement between the contractor or recycled water agency and the recycled water customer. Notification should occur at least two weeks before the actual cross-connection control test to allow adequate time for scheduling. The recycled water customer or contractor contacts and coordinates the test with all parties concerned.

Because a complete cross-connection control test directly impacts the site and any ongoing operations at that site, the City should make the owner or customer aware of its responsibilities and obligations, as explained in the following section, well in advance of the cross-connection control test. Test notification should consist of a letter explaining the purpose and general methodology of the test and the date, time, and duration of the test. A copy of the letter and a site map showing pressure recorder locations should be sent to the SWRCB. In an emergency, the contractor or recycled water supervisor, City staff and SWRCB may perform testing at a site with 24-hour notice given to the owner.

B. Shutdown (Cross-Connection Control) Test General Considerations. Concerning the actual cross-connection control test, any devices that may repressurize the potable or recycled water systems during testing should be isolated or deactivated. Examples of these devices are water heaters; pump systems on cooling towers; heating systems, etc.; overhead plumbing that may become air locked during the depressurization and break free during the test; and any water uses during the test such as opening of hose bibs or the use of hand basins that may contribute to pressure changes in the system. There may be water-cooled systems that cannot be shut down during the test. If so, cooling system water must be supplied from another available source, such as a fire hydrant.

A suggested list of equipment to have available for testing includes: site plans, flashlight, notebook, tape measure, needle-nose pliers (to activate hose-bib vacuum breakers), paper cups, regulatory and guidance documents such as Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations, and the SWRCB recommended policies relating to recycled water use. The customer or contractor should provide 24-hour pressure recorders and shovels for potholing, if necessary.

The customer or contractor should ensure that someone is on site during testing who is familiar with the existing plumbing and/or irrigation systems. The site supervisor should be present during the testing. The customer or contractor must know how to operate the irrigation master control panel at the site.

Normally, the cross-connection control test is the last element to be completed before the site is converted to recycled water use. This approach minimizes the chance for construction personnel to create a cross-connection after the test is completed and before the system is converted to recycled water.

To minimize the impact of the test on the public, cross-connection control tests should be scheduled during periods of minimal water use. For example, tests can be scheduled during school vacation periods or from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. at shopping centers. Similarly, residential and apartment complex potable water cross-connection control tests can be scheduled on weekend nights. If there is a threshold valve, a valve isolating a structure from the service line at the structure, it should be secured to isolate the building from the rest of the potable water system during the shutdown test.

Frequently at commercial and industrial sites, potable water meters are secured (shut off) when buildings are empty. Before securing the water meter, check the meter tattletale for signs of water flow. If there is flow into the building, it must be stopped before securing the meter. The reason for this action is that after the test, when the meter is reactivated, flow may lead to flooding for unknown reasons. A frequent cause of flow, after reactivation of the meter, is a stuck toilet tank fill float. If any water is flowing through the meter, the reason for the flow must be determined. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.240 Off-site recycled water facilities.

Operation, maintenance and monitoring of all of the City’s off-site recycled water systems including, but not limited to, recycled water transmission and distribution mains, service lines, valves, connections, storage facilities, and other appurtenances and properties up to and including the City’s meter, shall be under the management and control of the City. No other persons except authorized representatives of the City shall have any right to enter any portion of the foregoing. No other persons except authorized representatives of the City shall have any right to operate, adjust, repair, change, alter, move or relocate any portion of the off-site recycled water system. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.250 On-site recycled water facilities.

A. Customer’s Responsibilities. The customer or owner shall be responsible for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance and upkeep of their on-site facilities. However, the City shall also have the right to monitor and inspect the on-site operation of the customer’s facilities as specified in Section 14.20.270.

The customer shall notify the City of any and all changes or proposed changes, modifications or additions to the on-site facilities. Changes shall be approved by the City and shall be designed and constructed according to the requirements, conditions and standards set forth in these rules and regulations and other City requirements.

Any time there is a change of either owner or customer on any commercial or industrial premises, the owner or customer shall notify the City immediately. The City will then reassess the level of protection required and amend the existing permit in accordance with Section 14.20.060 as necessary. Any alterations to existing on-site facilities that may affect required protection levels must also be reported immediately to the City.

The customer shall comply with any and all applicable Federal, State, and local statutes, ordinances, regulations, contracts and requirements prescribed by the City. The City, in accordance with Section 14.20.320, shall apply any fines or penalties in the event of violation.

It shall be the responsibility of the customer to notify the City of any and all failures in a recycled water system whether or not in the user’s opinion the failures resulted in violations. It shall also be the responsibility of the customer to notify the City of any and all violations which occur as a result of the user’s action or the action of his or her operations personnel. The user shall keep a written log of all system failures and violations including corrective action taken. The City shall review the log regularly.

B. Designation/Responsibility of the Recycled Water Use Supervisor. Each recycled water customer shall designate a user’s recycled water supervisor. The user’s recycled water supervisor shall be a person accepted and approved by the City to operate and maintain the on-site facilities and irrigation systems, and to assume the responsibilities outlined here below. The City shall require that the designated user’s recycled water supervisor attend a local class for recycled water site supervisors or equivalent program approved by the SWRCB. He/she shall be the contact person for the user in all matters between the user and the City concerning the operation of the on-site system and the use of recycled water (see Section 14.20.120). It shall be the responsibility of the customer to notify the City whenever a change of the recycled water supervisor occurs. Subsequently, the customer shall be responsible to obtain the City’s acceptance and approval of his newly designated supervisor. The recycled water supervisor will have the following responsibilities:

1. To oversee recycled water service and maintain on-site facilities.

2. To ensure that all operations personnel are trained and familiarized with the use of recycled water, including all pertinent information contained in these rules and regulations and those applicable portions of the California Code of Regulations. This information shall be supplied by the City upon request by the user, customer, owner or applicant. The applicant for a user’s permit shall attest that training will be provided.

3. To furnish operations personnel with operating instructions, maintenance instructions, controller changes, and record drawings to ensure proper operation in accordance with the facilities design and these rules and regulations and all applicable permits. At least one complete set of this information shall be kept on site or in the nearest field office or maintenance building.

4. To operate and control the customer recycled water system in order to prevent direct human consumption of recycled water and to control and prevent runoff.

5. To provide a preventative maintenance program and carry out ongoing regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure the continued operation of all system elements within the requirements of these rules and regulations.

6. To prevent cross-connections to potable water systems, and also to protect the recycled water system from contamination from cross-connections to other sources.

7. To ensure that testing and inspection of backflow prevention assemblies is conducted on an annual basis and repairs are made where required as per requirements of regulatory agencies. More frequent tests may be required in those instances where successive tests indicate repeated failures.

8. To report to the City any and all failures in or to the on-site facilities whether or not such failures may result in violations.

C. Operation and Control of On-Site Recycled Water System. To the extent possible, the operation of the irrigation system shall be during periods of minimal public use of the approved area. Such periods of operation shall remain within any general period of recycled water irrigation operation specified by the City.

Operation and control measures of on-site recycled water systems shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. On-site recycled water facilities shall be operated in such manner to prevent or control surface flows or windblown sprays of recycled water across boundary lines or into areas not approved for recycled water use.

The system design shall avoid spray patterns that tend to accumulate recycled water to produce ponding and/or runoff on public rights-of-way or adjoining areas not approved for recycled water use.

2. Recycled water shall be applied at a rate that does not exceed the infiltration rate of the soil. Where varying soil types are present, the design and operation of the recycled water facilities shall be compatible with the lowest infiltration rate anticipated or designed appropriately for the soil type to prevent runoff.

3. No sprinkler system shall be allowed to operate for a time longer than the landscape’s water requirements. The intent is to control and limit runoff and ponding.

4. The user shall enforce the prohibitions as listed in this chapter.

D. Daytime Supervised Watering Criteria. Spray irrigation with recycled water at use sites having potential for public exposure (i.e., parks, school-grounds, golf courses, etc.) shall be subject to the following guidelines:

1. Normal watering shall be scheduled during nighttime or after closure of the use sites. The normal recycled water “watering window” is between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., including weekends, with a few exceptions in specified customer sites which have special watering needs and no public use.

2. Spray irrigation outside the watering window shall be minimized and allowed only when required to maintain healthy turf, such as during reseeding of ball fields, etc.

3. Scheduling of such irrigation shall be planned to minimize the potential for public exposure to spray or wind-driven aerosols.

4. Areas to be temporarily irrigated outside the watering window will be designated by barriers and posted with signage stating: “AREA CLOSED TO PUBLIC—KEEP OFF” and “RECYCLED WATER—DO NOT DRINK”.

5. Areas irrigated outside the watering window, including weekend daytime watering, will be patrolled during the irrigation cycle to ensure that public exposure is minimized. Vehicular, drive-by patrols of the use areas will be conducted at least once during each daytime watering cycle by a member of the landscape maintenance staff familiar with the particular use site. Foot patrols will be required where the use area is not visible from the vehicle on patrol. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.260 Posting approved use areas.

Where recycled water is used, stored or conveyed, each entrance to any area, building, or facility shall have a sign posted. Additional signs identifying the color scheme for the recycled, potable, and industrial water shall be located at each entrance where multiple systems are utilized. Warning notices and labels shall be posted on designated facilities such as controller panels, washdowns, or blowoff valves on trucks, and temporary construction facilities. The labels shall indicate that the system contains recycled water that is unsafe to drink or whatever other restrictions may apply. It shall be the responsibility of the recycled water supervisor to ensure the required bilingual postings in English and Spanish are installed and maintained, and that all personnel or public utilizing the facilities can readily see them.

Where recycled water is used for recreational impoundments, warning signs shall be posted to notify that the water in the impoundment is unsafe to drink. The agency responsible for the impoundment shall prepare a detailed plan showing placement and spacing of proposed signs. The signs shall include the international warning sign of “do not drink”. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.270 Monitoring and inspection.

The City of Norco, the SWRCB, and/or the RWQCB, or authorized representatives of any of these agencies, shall have authority to monitor and inspect the entire recycled water system, including both on-site and off-site facilities. The City shall conduct monitoring programs as it deems necessary to ensure that customer’s recycled water facilities are being operated in accordance with these rules and regulations, including the provision that cross-connections between potable water facilities and the recycled water facilities do not exist. In carrying out these functions the City, SWRCB, and/or the RWQCB, or authorized representative of any of these agencies, shall have the right to enter any customer’s premises during reasonable hours upon presentation of proper credentials. Reasonable hours shall include hours when irrigation is being performed to ascertain whether the user is complying with the City’s rules and regulations for recycled water. The customer shall indemnify and hold the City harmless for any damage, loss, or injury alleged to have been caused by City personnel while inspecting on-site facilities, except where the City’s sole negligence is duly established. If such entry is refused or cannot be obtained, the water utilities director shall have recourse to any remedy provided by law to secure lawful entry and inspection of the premises.

At their discretion, the City or representatives of any health agency having jurisdiction may conduct surveys of any property where the City provides recycled water service. These surveys are to determine if any actual or potential cross-connection exists. The applicant, owner, or customer shall provide full cooperation to facilitate these surveys.

Where a site utilizes separate piping systems for recycled water and potable water within the same facility and where the recycled water is used for either of the following purposes:

A. To serve plumbing outlets (excluding fire suppression systems) within a building; or

B. Outdoor landscape irrigation at individual residences, the property is considered a dual-plumbed site. All plumbed properties are required to have an annual cross-connection control inspection. A cross-connection control test is required every four years. The City of Norco, the SWRCB, or an authorized and certified Cross-Connection Specialist will perform the inspections and cross-connection control test. At the discretion of the City, cross-connection inspections may occur more frequently. A copy of the inspection report will be forwarded to the noninspecting agency. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.280 Recycled water connection, meter and service line charges.

The City shall make charges for the installation and perpetual maintenance of all recycled water services, meters, and appurtenances thereto, and these shall remain the property of the City. Said charges, in addition to all other usual and regular charges of the City, must be paid before work will be performed. Any backflow prevention devices on potable water services and flow or pressure control devices required due to application for recycled water service shall be downstream of the meter and shall be provided by the applicant, owner, or customer at his or her expense.

The amount of said charges, fees or rates shall be established by resolution of the City Council and shall be determined and computed in order to fully reimburse the City for the cost of materials, labor, equipment, debt service, operations and maintenance, capital recovery, and any other costs incidental to the performance of said services.

Whenever an installation is required by a customer that is not covered by the schedule of rates or fees established from time to time by the City, such work will be done with charges based upon a statement of costs made by the City. If the required installation for any valid reason cannot be installed for the amount stated in the appropriate schedule of rates established by the City, owing to the peculiarity of the proposed service, the City reserves the right to make said installation on the basis of a statement of cost.

Whenever recycled water service lines, meters or other appurtenances are requested to be removed by the customer for any reason whatsoever, the charges shall be made on the basis of a statement of costs by the City.

A fee may be imposed upon a user to reestablish recycled water service if service was turned off at the request of the user or for reason of failure on the user’s part to comply with City requirements. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.290 Deposits.

A. General.

1. No recycled water service shall be provided to any applicant for the commencement of such services or for the restoration of such services until said applicant has paid to Utility Billing a deposit.

2. No recycled water service shall be provided until the applicant has established financial responsibility to the satisfaction of the City’s Finance Director or his/her duly appointed representative. This can be accomplished by providing the following:

a. Non-interest-bearing deposit established and adopted fee resolution;

b. Letter from a California Department provider indicating one or more years of satisfactory payment history;

c. A prior account with the City of Norco within the previous two years with satisfactory payment history.

B. Amount of Deposit.

1. The amount of deposit for a new account shall be as specified in the adopted fee resolution.

2. In case the new service requested is for a vacant property that is for sale or between rental tenants, the owner of listing party shall pay a deposit amount listed as deposit for “clean and show” in the fee resolution adopted by City Council.

3. The Finance Director or his/her duly appointed representative can establish additional financial responsibility requirements for individual accounts which had late penalties or have had service discontinued.

4. The Finance Director or his/her duly appointed representative may waive all or a portion of the deposit at his/her discretion.

C. Method of Payment. Deposit shall be made in the form of cash, money order, debit or credit card unless waived by the Finance Officer or his/her duly appointed representative.

D. Return of Deposit. Residential customers may request a refund of any deposit held on their account after a period of 18 months. Said refund will only be granted if the customer had a payment history that was made in full, on time, and without any fees for 18 consecutive billing periods. The deposits for all other customer classifications are not eligible for a refund until the account is closed.

E. Interest on Deposits. There shall be no interest paid on deposits collected by the Utility Billing.

F. Deposits for Temporary Service. Deposit requirements for temporary service shall be specified in Section 14.04.130, Temporary service. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.300 Recycled water service rates and charges.

A. Establishment of Rates. Recycled water service rates shall be defined as the unit charges made to a user for the consumption of recycled water as received by the user and delivered from the off-site facilities.

The City Council shall establish and approve all rates, fees, charges, and deposits by resolution and within proper public notification guidelines as required by Federal or State rules and regulations. A copy of all current rates, fees, charges, and deposits shall be provided upon request and listed on the City’s website.

B. Change of Rates. The City reserves the right to change its rates for recycled water service. The City Council shall establish and approve all rates, fees, charges, and deposits by resolution and within proper public notification guidelines as required by Federal or State rules and regulations. A copy of all current rates, fees, charges, and deposits shall be provided upon request and listed on the City’s website.

C. Recycled Water Meter. All recycled water sold by the City will be upon the basis of metered volume sales except that the Water Utility may at its option provide flat rate or estimated service for the following:

1. Temporary service where the water use can be readily estimated.

2. Public and private fire protection service.

3. Water used for street sweeping, storm drain flushing, and sewer cleaning, when provided for by contract between the Water Utility and the municipality or other governmental authority.

D. Meter Reading Period. Recycled water meters shall be read at the same time as the potable water meter in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Municipal Code.

1. Estimated Meter Reading. If because of unusual conditions or for reasons beyond its control, Utility Billing is unable to read the customer’s meter on the scheduled reading date, Utility Billing may bill the customer for estimated consumption during the billing period and make any necessary corrections when a reading is obtained. Estimated consumption for this purpose will be calculated considering the customer’s average prior usage over the past 12 billing periods, and the general characteristics of the customer’s operations. Adjustments for any underestimate or overestimate of a customer’s consumption will be reflected on the next regularly scheduled bill rendered and based on the actual reading following the period of estimated consumption. If the cause for Utility Billing’s inability to read the meter is because of inaccessibility, then access to the meter sufficient to it being read shall be provided by the customer as a prerequisite to Utility Billing making any adjustment of water consumption billed on an estimated basis.

2. Adjustments for Billing Error. When it is found that an error in billing has occurred due to a Utility Billing error, the date of which can be reliably established, the overcharge or the undercharge will be computed back to such date; provided, however, that adjustment of Utility Billing errors shall be limited to the immediately preceding four-month period.

3. When the total period of service is less than 28 days, prorations will be made for the recycled water service charge. The recycled water usage charge shall be billed based on the closing reading of the water meter.

E. Meter Protection. The customer shall, at all times, keep the meter assembly and the area around the meter or other facilities free from deposits of oil, toxic, hazardous or contaminated liquid or waste, trash, soil, building materials or substances, objects, or obstructions. The customer shall not allow or permit meter boxes or other facilities to become obstructed or obscured by trees, shrubs, plants or in any manner impede their use or access to them. If such substances, objects or obstructions are not cleaned and removed by the customer, the cleaning and removal shall be done by the City at the expense of the customer after a reasonable time of notification. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.310 Billing.

A. Permanent Service. Recycled water bills will be rendered by the City with the potable water bills per the rates to be set by the City Council.

B. Temporary Service. The recycled water rate for all recycled water sold through temporary meters shall be the same as the construction recycled water rate. The charges for recycled water sold through temporary meters shall be billed and paid on a monthly basis.

C. Conditions of Service. All applicants for recycled water service shall have given implied consent to receive such service only upon agreeing to comply with the rules and regulations of the City. All applicants for recycled water service shall be required to accept such conditions of pressure and service as are provided by the distribution system at the location of the proposed connection, shall provide devices to protect their water plumbing and equipment from damage due to high or low pressures, pressure conditions or interruptions of service, and shall agree to hold the City harmless from any damages arising out of either low or high pressure conditions or interruptions of service.

Applicants may obtain recycled water service on active service connection by contacting the Department of Public Works by telephone or in person. If it is requested that service be turned on other than two hours prior to the close of business, legal holidays excepted, a charge shall be incurred for after-hours service. The charge for the after-hours service is set forth in the Schedule of User/Service Fees for Water Usage.

Pertinent information will be requested from the applicant to establish credit which shall include but not be limited to a Social Security number and/or tax identification or driver’s license number. A deposit is required in the amount specified in the City Council adopted fee resolution. Said deposit shall be made in the form of cash, money order, credit, or debit unless waived by the Finance Director or his/her duly appointed representative.

Said deposit shall be retained by Utility Billing until the recycled water services have been terminated by the customer or by Utility Billing for nonpayment of billings for services within the time established by appropriate City of Norco ordinances and resolutions. Upon the termination of said services, Utility Billing shall credit the deposit toward any outstanding billing due and owing, by the applicant, for any or all services. After Utility Billing has made such credit, if there be such, that portion of the deposit not so credited shall be refunded to the applicant. The Finance Director or his/her duly appointed representative may waive all or a portion of the deposit at his/her discretion.

Residential customers may request a refund of any deposit held on their account after a period of 18 months. Said refund will only be granted if the customer had a payment history that was on time and without any delinquent fees for 18 consecutive billing periods.

If an existing recycled water service connection is found to be inactive at the time of application, which may include, but not be limited to, damages to the connection and/or replacement of the meter, an assessment will be made of the recycled water service connection and a fee will be charged on a time and material basis to recover the cost of reestablishing the service to an active status.

A new account setup fee shall be charged to offset the cost of creating accounting and computer records, reading the meter and/or turning on the recycled water service and will be included on the first utility bill of all new accounts. The charge for the new account setup fee is set forth in the Schedule of User/Service Fees for Water Usage.

D. Billing, Delinquency and Penalty. Bills for recycled water service will be rendered monthly via the utility bill, or as otherwise provided in the rate schedules. The Finance Director may change the billing period for customers if such change is considered in the best interests of the Water Utility.

Bills for metered service will be based on meter registrations. Meters will be read as required for the preparation of regular bills, opening bills, and closing bills. Monthly bills will be prepared based on meter readings that are collected every 28 to 32 days. All bills are due and payable on or before the due date shown on the bill. Payment shall be made to the City of Norco. Charges for reconnection of service, and payments of deposits or payments to reinstate deposits as required under these rules and regulations, shall be paid before service will be reconnected. If payment of a bill is not received by Utility Billing’s office on or before the due date, a late charge as designated in the fee resolution adopted by City Council will be added to the total amount due. Utility Billing shall require a charge for any check returned from the bank unpaid. The amount of said charge shall be per the fee resolution adopted by City Council.

If the City has made a service call to turn off the recycled water for nonpayment of a delinquent bill, an additional charge shall be made to return the service. Additionally, a deposit equal to three times the average monthly bill will be required. If the recycled water service is turned off for such delinquency and it is requested that service be returned other than between the beginning of the public service hours and one hour prior to the end of the public service hours, as stated on the original Utility Bill, legal holidays excepted, said additional charge shall be made at an increased rate. In the event that the current billing account has been closed, a new account setup fee will also be required.

After the City has turned the recycled water off under this section and the recycled water has subsequently been turned back on, without the authorization of the City, the City may again turn off the recycled water and remove the meter. Damages to the meter and/or service connections will be assessed and a fee will be charged on a time and material basis to recover the cost of performing such activities.

No service shall be returned until all delinquent rates, charges, fees, deposits, and penalties due at the time of the request for such returned service are paid in full.

Notwithstanding any remedial procedure provided herein, the City may exercise any available legal or equitable remedy, including but not limited to court action, to recover all delinquent rates, charges, fees, and penalties.

If a recycled water service customer shall fail to comply with any provision of these rules and regulations, the Utility Billing Manager shall have recycled water service turned off pursuant to the procedures provided herein. However, the Utility Billing Manager shall have the right upon request to grant reasonable extensions of time beyond the periods provided herein for payment of delinquent accounts if, in his/her judgment, unusual circumstances, including but not limited to a customer’s extreme financial difficulty, warrant such an extension of time. Such extension of time for payment, however, shall not eliminate the accrual of the penalty due or the notice of shut-off charge.

E. Disputed Bills—Recycled Water Use.

1. Billed Recycled Water Consumption. A customer who believes that the recycled water consumption portion of the utility bill is in error must first contact Utility Billing by phone or in writing before the due date on the bill stating the nature of their dispute. Utility Billing shall contact the customer within 10 days from the date the dispute is received with a determination. Once a determination has been provided by Utility Billing the customer shall submit payment for the total or adjusted utility bill before the existing due date listed on the bill or within seven days from Utility Billing’s determination if the due date has already expired.

2. Disputed Recycled Water Bill Appeal.

a. If the customer is not satisfied with the determination by Utility Billing, the customer may formally appeal the disputed bill in question to the Director of Public Works for review by submitting a written statement setting forth the reasons why the customer believes the bill is incorrect. The customer must submit the appeal within seven days of the initial dispute determination to the Director of Public Works, City of Norco, 2870 Clark Ave., Norco, California 92860. However, in order to have the disputed bill considered by the Director of Public Works, the customer must submit a payment equal to the customer’s most recent paid utility bill to Utility Billing (payable to the City of Norco). Upon timely receipt of the written statement and payment, the Director of Public Works or his/her designee will review the basis of the billed amount, and communicate the results of the review and determination to the customer. Once a determination has been provided by the Director of Public Works the customer shall submit payment for the total or adjusted utility bill before the existing due date listed on the bill or within seven days from the Director of Public Works’ determination if the due date has already expired.

b. A customer who formally disputes the accuracy of the recycled water consumption portion of a utility bill will not have the service discontinued for nonpayment and will not be responsible for any late fees that may occur during the review period. If, before completion of the Director of Public Works’ review, an additional bill becomes due, the customer must send payment (payable to the City of Norco) for the entire amount of the additional bill. Failure to do so will constitute acceptance by the customer of the bill(s) as rendered, and authorize discontinuance of service in accordance with Section 14.04.110.

c. Failure of the customer to file a written appeal with the Director of Public Works and provide a good faith payment to Utility Billing within the required seven-day period will constitute acceptance by the customer of the initial bill determination rendered, and Utility Billing may authorize discontinuance of service in accordance with Section 14.04.110.

d. If the customer is not satisfied with the written determination of the Director of Public Works the customer may submit a written appeal to the City Council. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the City Council, City of Norco, 2870 Clark Ave., Norco, California 92860, together with reasons for the dispute within 10 days following receipt of the Director of Public Works’ determination. In the absence of a timely filed appeal, the decision of the Director of Public Works shall be final. Upon receipt of a timely appeal, the City Clerk shall then place the matter on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the City Council for consideration. A written decision of the City Council determination shall be delivered to the customer by personal delivery or certified mail within 10 days following the appeal hearing. Once a determination has been provided by the City Council the customer shall submit payment for the total or adjusted utility bill before the existing due date listed on the bill or within seven days from the City Council’s determination if the due date has already expired. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)

14.20.320 Enforcement and penalties.

A. General. The enforcement and penalty provisions applicable to violations of the Recycled Water Ordinance are set forth in this chapter. In addition to those provisions, any person, firm, corporation, association, or agency found to be violating any provision of the rules and regulations; the terms and conditions of the customer’s service agreement, permit; or any applicable Federal, State or local statute, regulation, resolution, ordinance or other requirement shall be subject to administrative remedies pursuant to Chapter 1.04.

B. Temporary Discontinuation of Recycled Water Service. In cases where the serious nature of the violations described above requires immediate action, the City, the State Water Resources Control Board, and/or the Regional Water Quality Control Board may exercise discretion to immediately order discontinuance of recycled water service. The City will conduct an administrative hearing to determine whether a permanent revocation or temporary suspension of a permit is warranted as provided herein. Conditions or uses that create a basis for termination include, but are not limited to:

1. Refusal to install a required backflow prevention device.

2. Refusal to test a backflow prevention device.

3. Refusal to repair or replace a faulty backflow prevention device.

4. Direct or indirect connection between the City’s potable water system and the recycled water system.

5. Direct or indirect connection between the City’s recycled water system and a system or equipment containing contaminants.

6. A situation which presents an immediate health hazard to the City’s potable and/or recycled water system, as determined by the City or regulatory agency.

7. Operations contrary to the aforementioned restrictions resulting in overspray into unapproved areas, excessive application rates or times, or improper fine grading of the soil, or improperly maintained drainage systems resulting in runoffs, or ponding due to runoffs on public rights-of-way or adjoining areas not approved for recycled water use.

8. Any discharge of recycled water in violation of any applicable discharge prohibitions or requirements prescribed by the RWQCB or any other Federal, State or local agency, or in a manner which creates or threatens to create conditions of pollution, contamination, or nuisance, as defined in California Water Code Section 13050.

C. Permanent Revocation. The City may temporarily or permanently revoke any recycled water permit or contract. However, unless an emergency exists as determined by the City, no permit or contract may be revoked until after the customer has been given an opportunity for an administrative hearing as hereinafter provided.

D. Serving Notice of Revocation. Where the City determines that a permit should be revoked, the City shall prepare a written notice of revocation, which includes a statement of the proposed action, a concise explanation of the reasons for the proposed action, and an explanation of the customers’ right to a public hearing. Such notice shall be sent by certified mail to the customer’s last billing address or be personally served on the customer at least 10 days before the effective date of the proposed permanent revocation. If, within five days after receipt of such notice, the customer or authorized representative requests in writing an administrative hearing from the City, the City shall immediately set a hearing and give the customer written notice of the item, date and place of such hearing, either by personal service or first class mail. The hearing shall be held not more than 30 days from the date of receipt of said request for hearing. The hearing shall be conducted by a hearing officer designated by the City. The person designated as hearing officer shall not have been connected in any way with the decision to revoke the subject permit or contract. No hearing shall be continued except upon showing of a good cause.

Within 10 days after notification of the hearing officer’s decision, the person may file a written appeal of the decision with the City Council. The written appeal to the City Council and a requisite filing fee must be submitted to the City Clerk. Upon receipt of the written appeal and the requisite filing fee the City Clerk shall set the matter for hearing with the City Council at the earliest practical date. At said hearing, the City Council may hear additional evidence, and may reject, affirm or modify the hearing officer’s decision. The City Council decision shall be final and shall complete the administrative process.

E. Reestablishment of Recycled Water Service. Any request to reestablish service subsequent to revocation of the permit and the termination of recycled water service shall be in the manner described for initially obtaining recycled water service from the City, which may include the collection of a customer guarantee deposit. The City may, at its discretion, deny reestablishment of service or require that an agreement of financial security conditioned upon compliance with these rules and regulations be provided. Users seeking a new or reestablished permit for recycled water service shall complete an application for recycled water service. (Ord. 1057 Sec. 1, 2020)