====== BIRCH BAY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT ======



===== COMMISSION POLICY =====


__**SUBJECT:**__  Standards for approval of irrigation plans for new development.

The 2003 Municipal Water Law has increased emphasis on water use efficiency.  The District has developed a water conservation plan conforming with applicable water use efficiency planning requirements.  The water conservation plan evaluated and recommended implementation of water conservation measures that address irrigation practices, among other actions.  

__**Irrigation Standards:**__
Developer Extensions that include common areas requiring irrigation will be required to fund a District or consultant review (Review) designed to enhance water use efficiency in the irrigation elements of the development. 

Proponents of new applications including irrigation fixtures and meters greater than 5/8” x 3/4” will be required to submit irrigation plans and comply with the following standards: 


  *Plant selection – 
    *require drought-tolerant plants in non-turf areas
    *maximum lawn area of 1,600 sq. ft.
  *Thickness of top soil – 6”. 
  *Thickness of mulch – 3”
  *Irrigation system design.  
    *Programmable controller/automated valves
    *Rain shutoff device
    *Installed and inspected by licensed irrigation contractor
    *Acceptance by District.
  *Agreement to switch the irrigation system from the District’s potable water system to a District reclaimed water system, should such reclaimed water system become available.

__** Prior Policy:**__ This policy supplements the policy on the use of partially treated, potable, non-potable and re-use water dated November 13, 1997.

**Policy Approval Date:** February 9, 2012