The text
A.
All irrigation systems shall be designed to prevent runoff, over-spray, low head drainage and other similar conditions. Soil types and infiltration rates shall be considered when designing irrigation systems. Irrigation systems shall be designed, constructed, managed and maintained to achieve as high an overall efficiency as possible with a precipitation rate not to exceed 0.75 inches per hour.
B.
Dedicated (separate) landscape water meters shall be installed for all projects greater than five thousand square feet, except for single family residences (authority cited: Statutes of 2006, AB 1881, Chapter 559, Article 44.5, Section 535). Dedicated landscape water meters are highly recommended on landscape areas over five thousand square feet to facilitate water management.
C.
All irrigation systems shall include:
1.
A SMART irrigation controller or other equivalent technology which automatically adjusts the frequency and/or duration of irrigation events in response to changing weather conditions shall be required. The planting areas shall be grouped and irrigated in relation to hydrozones based on similarity of water requirements (i.e., turf separate from shrub and groundcover, full sun exposure areas separate from shade areas; top of slope separate from toe of slope);
2.
Anti-drain check valves shall be installed to prevent low-head drainage in sprinkler heads;
3.
A pressure regulator when the static water pressure exceeds the maximum recommended operating pressure of the irrigation system; and
4.
A rain sensor with an automatic rain shut-off feature shall be required.
(Ord. No. 627, § 1, 9-21-2010)