BIRCH BAY WATER & SEWER DISTRICT

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