Staff seek to update backflow and cross‑connection rules, cite public‑health and code alignment

Justin Royer, the city’s backflow technician, told the council the backflow and cross‑connection ordinance needs updates to comply with state rule R309 and federal Safe Drinking Water Act requirements and to remove language that effectively grandfathered non‑compliant devices.

Royer explained that cross connections—direct or indirect links between potable water and an undesirable source—pose contamination risk. He showed examples encountered in the city: an illegal hydrant hookup, chemical dispenser connections in janitor closets, and dual‑source irrigation hookups. Royer said most assemblies must be tested annually by ABPA‑certified testers and that the city coordinates testing and inspections with building services and the Weber County Health Department.

Council members asked whether the changes affect residential, commercial and industrial connections; Royer said the ordinance applies across all sectors but that the department has focused first on larger commercial/industrial backflow devices. Asked about homeowner costs, staff estimated many residential corrections (for irrigation connections) could be in the order of several hundred dollars—Royer and colleagues suggested about $500 is common for typical residential fixes, though complex installs can be more expensive.

Staff emphasized public education, printable handouts and on‑site assistance for residents and said the updated ordinance text clarifies enforcement authority and references current plumbing code adopted by the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). The proposed update removes grandfathering language to bring installations into compliance going forward.

Councilors asked about notification and inspection triggers; staff said inspections commonly arise from plumbing permits, remodels and complaint follow‑ups and that city inspectors can flag backflow requirements during plan review.