City introduces municipal code changes and fines for backflow prevention to meet state rules

Roseville staff asked the City Council on Dec. 17 to introduce for first reading an ordinance amending Chapter 14.10 of the municipal code and to adopt a fine and bail schedule to implement updated state cross‑connection control requirements.

Environmental Utilities Director Tom Bigley and EU compliance administrator Rachel Tooker said the California Water Resources Control Board updated backflow and cross‑connection guidance, which requires public water systems to assess hazards at all points of connection and to set inspector certification and compliance timelines. City staff reported there are roughly 4,500 privately owned backflow prevention assemblies in Roseville and another ~600 owned by the city.

Proposed code changes clarify city enforcement authority, require annual testing and updated hazard assessments, reserve rights of access for inspections, prohibit disconnecting or modifying assemblies without city approval, and authorize the city to charge owners for inspection costs. Staff plans to outsource annual inspections under city oversight, add a rare requirement for on‑site user supervisors where operations pose higher hazards, and create a 30‑day timeline for repairs or replacements consistent with the handbook. New first/second/third tier fines tied to violations within a 36‑month period were proposed along with an appeal route to the Environmental Utilities Director.

Council introduced the ordinance for first reading and approved amendments to the fine and bail schedules (subject to second reading). Staff said they will continue public outreach starting Jan. 1, including workshops and an information campaign to notify property owners of obligations and resources.