Receive a report and hold a discussion regarding updates to the Cross Connection Control and Backflow Ordinance. [Estimated Presentation/Discussion Time: 45 minutes]

This item concerns updates to the City of Denton's Cross Connection Control and Backflow Ordinance. The original ordinance, approved in 1997, was never properly codified and is currently unenforceable due to a clerical error in 1998. Staff has rewritten the ordinance to align with current regulatory standards and industry best practices, ensuring compliance with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and protecting the public drinking water system from contamination.

Key Updates Include:

• Legal Authority: Provides clear legal authority and enforcement mechanisms.
• New Construction: Requires Backflow Prevention Assemblies (BPAs) for all new non-residential construction, installed just past the meter.
• Fire Systems: BPAs will be installed past the meter, not in the riser room.
• Irrigation Systems: Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers are no longer allowed; backflow components from the 2008 Irrigation Ordinance are repealed and consolidated into this new ordinance.
• Compliance & Enforcement: Defines hydrant meter requirements, expands staff inspection access, clarifies emergency shut-off procedures, and outlines service suspension for non-compliance. It also establishes clear enforcement procedures, including fines and water service interruptions.
• Tester Requirements: Revises requirements for certified testers to register with the City and updates insurance/training standards.

Timeline:

• City Council Work Session: February 17, 2026
• City Council Individual Consideration: March 3, 2026
• Notice Publication: March 3-13, 2026
• Effective Date: March 17, 2026