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Council updates cross‑connection ordinance to align with state rules; ordinance adopted
Summary
Ogden City adopted Ordinance 2025-32 updating Title 9, Chapter 4 to clarify cross-connection and backflow prevention requirements and to align local code with Utah Division of Drinking Water rules; staff emphasized public-safety purpose while residents asked about cost and implementation support.
Ogden City Council on Oct. 21 adopted an update to the city’s cross‑connection control ordinance—Title 9, Chapter 4—intended to align local rules with state and federal requirements and clarify enforcement and installation standards for backflow-prevention devices.
Justin Royer, the city’s cross-connection control administrator, told the council the ordinance update reflects state and federal obligations, including the Safe Drinking Water Act implementation through the Utah Division of Drinking Water and Rule R309. Royer explained the program’s purpose: to prevent backflow (the undesirable reversal of potable water flow that can draw contaminants into the public drinking-water system) and to provide a clear administrative framework for enforcement, testing and education.
Royer walked the council through typical cross-connection scenarios—improper chemical-dispensing hose connections, illegal hydrant hookups, incorrect backflow installations and winterized “swing” connections between culinary and secondary systems—and showed examples of correct and incorrect assemblies. He said the updated ordinance removes ambiguous grandfathering language, references current plumbing-code sections, clarifies definitions and sets clearer enforcement and reporting requirements for backflow testing and compliance.
Residents at the meeting raised concerns about the cost of required devices and the enforcement language. Council member Angela Romero specifically asked whether homeowners could seek financial assistance; Royer said the HELP (Home Exterior Loan Program) may apply and staff have advised residents on funding options, but confirmed residential tracking and enforcement present administrative challenges. Other commenters warned that a strict enforcement approach that immediately discontinues service for “failure, refusal or inability” to install a device could create hardship; council and staff said they would work to ensure compliance pathways and consider outreach and assistance options.
Vice Chair Hyer moved adoption of Ordinance 2025-32; Council member Blair seconded. The council approved the ordinance by roll call vote: Council member Chburka, Council member Graff, Council member Myers, Council member Ritchie, Council member Blair, Vice Chair Hyer and Chair White recorded “Aye.” Council members and staff said the ordinance is intended to bring Ogden’s code into alignment with current plumbing code and state requirements and to strengthen public-education and testing practices while preserving avenues for residents to seek assistance.
Staff said the ordinance will require ongoing public education, annual testing of assemblies where installed, and improved recordkeeping for backflow devices. Royer said the city will continue outreach and will assist residents with on-site reviews and recommendations to minimize costs while meeting safety requirements.
