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Ogden updates cross-connection (backflow) ordinance to align with state rules; residents ask about costs and enforcement
Summary
Council adopted updated cross-connection (backflow) ordinance (Title IX Chapter 4 / proposed ordinance 2025-32) to align with state and federal drinking-water rules; staff said the change clarifies definitions, removes grandfathering, and formalizes testing and enforcement. Residents expressed concern about costs and the city's ability to offer financial assistance before enforcement actions such as shutoffs.
The Ogden City Council adopted an update to the city's cross-connection control ordinance (Title IX Chapter 4) Oct. 21 to align local code with state rules (R309) and the Safe Drinking Water Act. Justin (cross-connection control administrator) reviewed backflow risks, the types of assemblies required, testing and inspection responsibilities, and the ordinance's public-education and enforcement provisions.
Justin said the update provides clearer definitions, more references to the current plumbing code, removes grandfathering language and sets enforcement steps for noncompliant backflow prevention devices. He explained that backflow is the undesirable reversal of water flow that can carry contaminants into the potable system and described common problem installations. The presentation emphasized the city's role as the local cross-connection authority, the requirement that backflow testers be ABPA-certified, and the need to keep annual test reports on file.
Residents in public comment asked whether the cost of required devices and repairs could be covered through the city's HELP home-loan program or other financial assistance, and raised a concern that the ordinance language could lead to water shutoffs for inability to pay. Travis (public commenter) warned that language allowing discontinuation of service for "failure, refusal, or inability" to install a device could disproportionately affect homeowners unless alternative financing or special-improvement mechanisms are offered.
Council and staff acknowledged the affordability concern. Justin said the HELP loan could qualify for some installations and encouraged residents to contact staff for guidance; councilmembers asked staff to outline compliance-assistance options before wide enforcement. The council adopted proposed ordinance 2025-32 by roll-call vote to bring city code into alignment with state-mandated cross-connection-control responsibilities.
Staff said the next steps include public outreach, technical assistance for residents, and implementation of the enforcement and annual-testing tracking required by state rules.
