HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-10-13 - Resolution No. 2021-39RESOLUTION NO. 2021-39
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF THE YORBA LINDA WATER DISTRICT
ADOPTING THE RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR WATER SERVICE
AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NOS. 06-04 AND 16-15
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors have, from time to time, amended the Rules and
Regulations for water service, most recently of which was by Resolution No.
16-15.
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors previously adopted Resolution No. 06-04
establishing policies and procedures for the provision of water service to
developments that include housing units affordable to lower income
households.
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Board of Directors to amend these Rules and
Regulations to reflect current practice and incorporate previously adopted
policies and procedures into one comprehensive document.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Directors of the Yorba Linda
Water District as follows:
SECTION 1. That the Rules and Regulations for Water Service, attached as Exhibit A
and by this reference incorporated herein, are hereby adopted.
SECTION 2. That Resolution Nos. 06-04 and 16-15 are hereby rescinded immediately
upon adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 13th day of October 2021 by the following called vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST:
Annie Alexander, Board Secretary
Yorba Linda Water District
Reviewed as to form by General Counsel:
��
Resolution No. 2021-39 Adopting the Rules and Regulations for Water Service
Directors DesRoches, Hawkins, Jones, Lindsey and Miller
None
None
None
RULES AND REGULATIONS
FOR WATER SERVICE
Revised October 13, 2021
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS .............................................................................. 3
SECTION 2. SERVICE CONNECTIONS ................................................................................... 6
SECTION 3. FEES AND CHARGES FOR NEW SERVICE CONNECTIONS ............................ 7
SECTION 4. BILLING PROCEDURES .....................................................................................10
SECTION 5. FINAL BILL, CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND METER FAILURE ..........................16
SECTION 6. WATER USAGE REGULATED ...........................................................................17
SECTION 7. MAINS, METERS AND FIRE HYDRANTS ...........................................................17
SECTION 8. BACKFLOW PREVENTION PROGRAM .............................................................20
SECTION 9. POLICY ON WATER MAIN AND SERVICE EXTENSIONS .................................28
SECTION 10. PROTECTION FROM DAMAGE ........................................................................30
SECTION 11. POWERS AND AUTHORITY OF INSPECTORS ...............................................30
SECTION 12. VIOLATIONS .....................................................................................................31
SECTION 13. VALIDITY ...........................................................................................................31
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 3
DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS
Unless otherwise specifically defined herein and the context requires a different meaning, all
words, terms, and phrases shall be construed according to their ordinary meaning. Unless the
context specifically indicates otherwise, the meaning of terms used in these Rules and
Regulations shall be as follows:
1.1 ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (ADU): A dwelling unit located on the same lot as a
primary single-family dwelling unit, either attached or detached from the primary
residential dwelling unit, and which provides living facilities for one or more persons. An
ADU shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and
sanitation on the same parcel on which a primary single-family dwelling is situated or is
proposed to be situated.
1.2 ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE (AMI): An integrated system of “smart”
water meters, other infrastructure, communications networks, and data management
systems that enable transmission of information between the customer meter connection
and the District’s office.
1.3 BILLING DATE: The date upon which a bill or notice is mailed or electronically delivered
to the Customer.
1.4 BOARD OF DIRECTORS or BOARD: The Board of Directors of the Yorba Linda Water
District.
1.5 CAPACITY FEE: A fee imposed by the District for: (a) public water facilities in existence
at the time the fee is imposed; or (b) new public water facilities to be acquired or
constructed in the future that are of proportional benefit to the person or property being
charged. This includes supply or capacity contracts for right or entitlements, real
property interests, and entitlements and other rights of the District involving capital
expense relating to its use of existing public facilities as set forth in California
Government Code Section 66013(b)(5). This is commonly referred to as the Customer’s
“buy-in” to the public water system.
1.6 CONNECTION FEE: The fee imposed by the District to obtain water service from the
District. This fee may include, depending on the type of connection, Single Service Fee,
a Capacity Fee, or such other fees as set forth herein depending on the type of service.
1.7 CUSTOMER OR CONSUMER: A person/business/institution or other receiving water
service from the District.
1.8 DISTRICT: The Yorba Linda Water District.
1.9 DOMESTIC WATER: Water for household residential purposes (drinking, bathing,
cleaning and the like), including water for outdoor use such as irrigating landscaping,
providing drinking water for animals, washing vehicles, filling pools, and other similar and
customary purposes.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 4
1.10 EASEMENT: A property right for the District to use and/or enter onto the real property of
another to install, construct, reconstruct, remove, inspect, operate, maintain, repair,
replace, improve, or relocate a pipeline or pipelines, or other District improvements.
1.11 EMPLOYEE: Any person employed by the District and designated by the General
Manager of the District to perform work and labor for the District, excluding contractors,
consultants, and their employees.
1.12 FEE SCHEDULE: The most recently adopted Resolution of the Board of Directors
Establishing Water Development and Customer Service Fees (or similar).
1.13 FIRE HYDRANT(S): Connections to the District’s water system through a device, usually
at street level, for the primary purpose of fire suppression and the occasional purpose of
temporary construction as set forth herein.
1.14 GENERAL MANAGER: The person (or their designee / authorized representative) hired
or appointed by the Board of Directors of the District as the executive officer of the
District.
1.15 MAINS : Distribution pipelines located in streets, highways, District Easements, and/or
public ways or private rights-of-ways, which are used to serve the general public.
1.16 METER: Water use measuring device approved and installed by, or at the direction of,
the District.
1.17 MWDSC: Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.
1.18 MWDOC: Municipal Water District of Orange County.
1.19 OCWD: Orange County Water District.
1.20 OFFSITE FACILITIES: Facilities including but not limited to water Mains, wells,
reservoirs, booster pump stations, Fire Hydrants, vaults, valves, connections, supply
interties, treatment facilities, and other appurtenances and property up to the Meter or
point of connection with the Customer’s facilities. Offsite Facilities are owned and
maintained by the District.
1.21 ONSITE FACILITIES: Facilities including but not limited to residential, commercial, and
industrial building water systems. For water service, the Onsite Facilities shall be those
downstream of the Service Connection, which shall normally be the downstream end of
the Meter. For fire service, the Onsite Facilities shall be immediately downstream from
the isolation valve connected to the existing water Main. Onsite Facilities are owned and
maintained by the Customer.
1.22 PERSON: An individual, corporation, company, association, partnership, municipality,
public utility, or other public body or institution.
1.23 PLANS: Design sheets with a plan and profile of proposed water system construction
shown in sufficient detail so that it can be constructed after District approval.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 5
1.24 PREMISE: Any and all areas on a Customer’s property which is served, or has the
potential to be served, by the public water system.
1.25 QUITCLAIM: A release by the grantor, or conveyor of the deed (typically the District), of
any interest the grantor may have in the property described in the deed.
1.26 RAW WATER (PERMANENT UNTREATED WATER SERVICE): Non-potable untreated
water, used exclusively for outdoor commercial/landscaping uses such as golf course
irrigation, outdoor commercial/industrial uses, or construction grading. Raw Water may
be supplied by the District from its groundwater production facilities or purchased from
MWDSC through the District.
1.27 SECTIONS: The parts into which these rules are divided.
1.28 SERVICE CONNECTION: This includes the tapping connection, the pipe, valves, Meter,
and other facilities by means of which water is conveyed from the distribution main to the
outlet side of the Meter and the beginning of the Consumer’s pipe.
1.29 SHALL/MAY: “shall” is mandatory, “may” is permissive.
1.30 SPECIFICATIONS: The Standard Plans and Specifications for the Construction of Water
Facilities in the District.
1.31 TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION METERS: Measuring devices with proper Backflow
prevention devices attached, which are installed on Fire Hydrants by the District to
provide temporary water service for construction or related purposes during a period of
actual construction under an active building permit issued by a city or the County of
Orange.
1.32 TEMPORARY SERVICE: Water service provided by the District for a finite period of
time; not permanent.
1.33 TERMS AND CONDITIONS: A document produced by the District setting forth the terms
and conditions for the provision of water service to new developments or modifications to
existing developments.
1.34 TRAFFIC RATED METER BOX: A meter box that will withstand traffic load forces of
16,000 lbs. per wheel, as defined by the American Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials.
1.35 TRANSMISSION MAIN: A water pipe, typically large in diameter, that delivers water to
an Offsite Facility or between facilities and pressure zones.
1.36 UNDERGROUND SERVICE ALERT: “USA” is an information center that notifies its
members of impending excavation at or near their underground installations. California
law makes it mandatory for all those who plan to do any digging or excavating to inform
a regional notification center such as USA at least two days in advance. USA can be
contacted at 1-800-422-4133.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 6
SECTION 2. SERVICE CONNECTIONS
2.1 APPLICATION FOR SINGLE SERVICE CONNECTION: An application for a single
Service Connection shall be made at the District office. The applicant shall specify the
property to be served and the purpose for which the water is to be used. Upon review
and approval of the application, the District reserves the right to determine the final
connection and Meter size (minimum 1-inch meter and service line). The applicant shall
be charged for the installation and material costs pertaining to the service connection in
accordance with the latest adopted Fee Schedule. The information supplied by the
applicant in such application shall be considered as authoritative and final. If any error in
such application, from information provided by the applicant, causes the installation of a
Service Connection that is improper in size or location, the cost of all changes required
shall be borne by the applicant. Billing for water service shall commence once the
Service Connection is installed and approved for use.
2.2 FIRE PROTECTION SERVICE LINES: These lines are water service lines dedicated to
onsite fire suppression systems. Application, Terms and Conditions, and a ‘water
development deposit’ are required to establish a Fire Protection Service Line.
2.3 SEWER SERVICE: The connection of a private sewer line (lateral) into the District’s
sanitary sewer system. Water service may not be established or maintained, subject to
state law, unless compliance with the District’s Rules and Regulations District for Sewer
Service is demonstrated.
2.4 SERVICES TO SEPARATE PARCELS: Each house or building on separate parcels
must be provided with its own Service Connection(s). A separate Service Connection
must be installed for each building, subject to California law governing water service to
ADUs.
2.5 NUMBER OF BUILDINGS ON SINGLE SERVICE: The District reserves the right to limit
the number of houses, buildings, area of land, and living or business quarters, to be
supplied by one (1) Service Connection, subject to California law regarding ADUs.
2.6 SERVICE OWNERSHIP WHEN PROPERTY IS SUBDIVIDED: When property provided
with a single Service Connection is subdivided, the Service Connection shall be
considered as belonging to: (a) the lot or parcel of land which it directly enters; or (b) the
property which is first served in the event the Customer’s pipe crosses other property to
reach the property to be served. The District shall require new developments, or
structures, within the subdivided lots, requiring potable water service, to install a
separate Service Connection(s) at the property owner’s expense.
2.7 SERVICE CONNECTION SUPPLYING DIFFERENT/ADJOINING PROPERTY: A
Service Connection shall not at any time be used to supply water to a different or
adjoining property.
2.8 INTERFERING WITH WATER FACILITIES: No Person shall, without the permission of
the District, remove, change, disturb, or in any way tamper with or interfere with any of
the facilities, apparatus, appliances or property used or maintained for the production,
storage, distribution or supply of water by the District to Consumers. Nor shall any
Person without the permission of the District install any pipe, apparatus, appliance or
connection to any part of the District’s system. Tampering with Meters and other water
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 7
service facilities is a criminal offense and may be subject to all civil penalties, costs of
remediation, and such other fees and costs that may apply in accordance with the latest
adopted Fee Schedule.
2.9 NEW DEVELOPMENT - SINGLE WATER SERVICE CONNECTION OR “TERMS AND
CONDITIONS”: Developments with one (1) lot shall apply for a Single Water Connection
Application and Permit, with a Service Connection to that lot and a separate Service
Connection to each additional (more than one (1)) habitable dwelling unit thereon
including ADUs to the extent permitted by California law. Developments with two (2) or
more lots shall apply for Terms and Conditions, with a separate Service Connection to
each lot and to each additional dwelling unit per lot (more than one (1)) including ADUs
to the extent permitted by California law. Capacity Fees shall be calculated for each
dwelling unit individually to the extent permitted by California law.
2.10 COMPLIANCE WITH HOUSING ELEMENT REQUIREMENTS: In accordance with
California Government Code Section 65589.7(b), the District shall adopt written policies
and procedures for provision of water and sewer service, which shall include granting
priority for the provision of water and sewer service to proposed developments that
include affordable housing. [California Government Code Section 65589.7(a).]
SECTION 3. FEES AND CHARGES FOR NEW SERVICE CONNECTIONS
Pursuant to the Fee Schedule, the District shall collect the following fees at the time of
application:
3.1 METER CONNECTION FEE: Each applicant for a new Service Connection shall pay the
District the applicable Meter Connection Fees pursuant to the latest adopted Fee
Schedule.
3.1.1 METERS UP TO 2 INCHES: The minimum meter size for new water Service
Connections is one (1) inch. A Traffic Rated Meter Box and lid shall be required
for Meter placements where, in the District’s sole opinion, the box and lid will be
subjected to vehicle traffic, e.g. in driveways or parking lots. The extra cost, if
any, for a Traffic Rated Meter Box, lid, and if also required, a downstream shutoff
valve shall be paid by the Customer. The District requires the installation of AMI
Meters. The fee for AMI Meters shall be as identified in the latest Fee Schedule.
3.1.2 METERS LARGER THAN 2 INCHES: Meters larger than two (2) inches shall be
installed for a sum equal to the actual cost of labor, including employer paid
benefits (“fully burdened”), and materials to install such meter and
appurtenances. The District shall estimate the cost of such installation and the
applicant shall pay such estimated cost to the District before the Meter is
installed. Should payment of the estimated cost be insufficient to cover the total
expense for installation of the Meter, the remaining balance shall be paid by the
applicant prior to the Service Connection being approved for use. If the estimated
cost exceeds the cost of installation of the Meter, any excess payment shall be
returned to the applicant within 60 days. A Traffic Rated Meter Box and lid shall
be required for Meter placements where, in the District’s sole opinion, the box will
be subjected to vehicle traffic, e.g. in driveways or parking lots. The extra charge
for a Traffic Rated Meter Box, lid, and, if also required, a downstream shutoff
valve shall be paid by the Customer.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 8
3.1.3 The District requires the installation of AMI Meters. The fee for AMI Meters shall
be stated in the latest Fee Schedule.
3.2 TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION METERS: When a Temporary Construction Meter is
requested, and service can be provided by a standard Fire Hydrant type of construction
Meter with an approved Backflow prevention device, the applicant shall deposit the
amount of funds set forth in the latest adopted Fee Schedule. For any temporary service
other than a Fire Hydrant type of construction Meter, the applicant shall be responsible
for installation and removal of all pipes, valves, fittings, appurtenances, and Backflow
prevention device required for installation of a non-standard Fire Hydrant Temporary
Construction Meter, the type and design of which is subject to District approval. A
separate fee, pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule, shall apply for movement or
relocation of the Temporary Construction Meter to a new location. Construction Meters
issued shall be used in conjunction with the attached and approved applicant provided
portable Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention device (RP) in accordance with the
latest adopted State of California Administrative Code, Title 17. The Temporary
Construction Meter shall be secured, by District staff, with a District-provided chain and
lock, at a location approved by District staff. Tampering with a Temporary Construction
Meter shall result in the immediate removal of the Temporary Construction Meter by the
District and the assessment of all applicable penalties for tampering with a water system
device as set forth above and outlined in the Fee Schedule.
3.2.1 When use of the Temporary Construction Meter is completed, the applicant shall
notify District staff to remove the Temporary Construction Meter from the Fire
Hydrant. District staff shall then assess the condition of the construction Meter
and the Fire Hydrant and the Customer shall be responsible for any rehabilitation
costs of either the Meter of the Hydrant. If there is no damage to the construction
Meter or the Hydrant, District shall prepare the final bill and net the initial deposit
amount against the amount due. Should there be damage to the construction
Meter, District staff shall notify and inform the applicant of: (a) the damage and
the cost to repair or replace the Temporary Construction Meter; and (b) the
amount of the applicant’s final bill. If the balance due exceeds the amount on
deposit, the Customer must pay the difference. If the amount of deposit exceeds
the balance due, then the deposit balance shall be refunded to the Customer.
3.2.2 Temporary Construction Meters are permitted only for a limited duration during a
period of actual construction under an active building/construction permit or
public works contract issued by a City or the County of Orange within the service
boundaries of the District. Water received through a Temporary Construction
Meter shall be used only within the service area boundaries of the District and
may not be exported outside such boundaries for any purpose. Water received
from a Temporary Construction Meter may only be used for purposes directly
related to the active construction and may not be resold, redirected for another
use, used for any permanent purpose that would ordinarily require a Service
Connection, or used for any commercial purpose. Because a Temporary
Construction Meter renders the Fire Hydrant unusable for fire suppression in
many cases, the District shall limit the duration of use of a Temporary
Construction Meter as much as possible. Requests by other public agencies
and/or utilities providing service within the District service area shall be
considered on a case-by-case basis and shall be limited to the shortest duration
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 9
possible not to exceed six (6) months. Temporary Construction Meters shall be
tested by District at the time of installation.
3.3 ADDITIONAL SERVICE FEES: To the extent that any Additional Service Fees apply to
a particular application, they shall be assessed in accordance with the Fee Schedule.
3.3.1 SINGLE SERVICE FEE: A Single Service Fee shall be imposed on a Service
Connection, to a single lot where the water Main already exists. The Single
Service Fee shall be pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
3.3.2 CAPACITY FEE: A Capacity Fee shall be charged for all new Service
Connections in accordance with the Fee Schedule.
3.4 INSTALLATION BY APPLICANT: The applicant shall be responsible for installation
costs of all pipe, valves, fittings, Fire Hydrants, service lines and appurtenances required
to obtain water service from the District. District staff shall install the Meter. Applicant
shall indemnify and hold the District, its Directors, officers, District Consultants and
Contractors, and employees harmless from any loss or damage that may arise from
installation of the water facilities. All materials and installation shall conform to the
District’s Specifications and shall be subject to the inspection and acceptance by the
District.
3.5 WATER RATES: All Water Rates shall be charged and collected monthly or annually
pursuant to the latest adopted Water Rates Resolution.
3.5.1 DOMESTIC WATER: Domestic Water shall be billed at the current rate for
treated water in accordance with the latest adopted Water Rates Resolution.
3.5.2 PERMANENT UNTREATED WATER SERVICE (RAW WATER): Permanent
untreated water service is only available in accordance with the latest adopted
terms and conditions for “untreated full” water service as adopted by MWDOC.
To qualify for this class of water, the Customer shall: (a) pay all costs to connect
to MWDOC’s untreated water supply; (b) own and operate their own,
independent, water system that is completely separate and apart from the
District’s Domestic Water system; (c) comply with the latest adopted version of
the District’s Water Rules and Regulations, including any Water Management
Programs; and (d) implement all reasonable and available reliable water use
efficiency methods, as determined by the District.
3.5.3 RAW WATER FROM GROUNDWATER SOURCES: Raw Water from
groundwater sources shall be billed at the current rate for treated water in
accordance with the latest adopted Water Rates Resolution.
3.6 TEMPORARY SERVICE (IN CONJUNCTION WITH A TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION
METER): Application shall be made to the District for temporary service desired by
licensed contractors/municipalities/utilities providing service within the District service
area for water to be used within the District’s service area for limited, temporary needs,
such as street rehabilitation work. Upon receipt of a completed application and payment
of the applicable construction Meter deposit, a construction Meter shall be made
available for use. The deposit shall be pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule as
stated above in Section 3. At the request of the applicant, the temporary construction
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 10
Meter may be moved to a new location by District staff only. The fee for movement of the
Meter, as defined in Section 3, is pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
Applicants on file shall receive a monthly invoice for the rental of the Temporary
Construction Meter and metered water usage at the rates prescribed in the District’s
latest approved Resolution Setting Water Rates. Unauthorized and unmetered water
usage and tampering with potable water facilities is a Federal offense in accordance with
U S Code Title 42 Section 300i-1. All other penalties set forth elsewhere herein apply to
any tampering with devices or theft of water. The application for temporary service may
be denied (a) in the event of water shortage, water rationing, or a general emergency, or
(b) in the determination of the District, the setting of a Meter is impracticable or
uneconomical.
3.7 TEMPORARY UNTREATED WATER (RAW WATER): Application shall be made to the
District for all temporary untreated water received directly through MWDSC and the
MWDOC for construction only. The fee for Temporary Untreated Water shall be pursuant
to the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
3.8 PRIVATE FIRE SERVICE RATES: The monthly rates for private fire service protection
shall be pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule
3.9 PRIVATE FIRE PROTECTION: The applicant shall furnish and install all piping, valves,
regulators, appendages, fire detector check (commercial applications) Backflow
prevention device, and/or other approved devices, in accordance with the latest
Specifications, and in accordance with the Backflow Prevention Program section herein.
The bypass Meter and line shall be specified by the District.
3.10 CHANGE OF METER LOCATION: Any person desiring to change the location of a
Service Connection/Meter, which has already been installed, shall make application to
the District. The District, in its sole discretion, may approve or deny the application.
Should the District approve the application, the District shall relocate the Meter as
requested upon the applicant’s payment in advance for all estimated costs of labor (fully
burdened) and materials. Should the estimate of costs be greater than the actual cost, a
refund shall be issued to the applicant. However, should the estimate of costs not cover
the actual costs, the applicant shall be notified and invoiced for the amount due to the
District.
3.11 CHANGE OF FIRE HYDRANT OR AIR VACUUM/AIR RELEASE VALVE LOCATION:
Fire Hydrants and Air Vacuum/Air Release Valves shall be installed in the location
specified by the District. If a property owner or other party desires a change in the size,
type, or location of such Fire Hydrants or Air Vacuum/Air Release Valves, they shall file
a written application with the District and comply with these Rules and Regulations. Any
change in the location of a Fire Hydrant or Air Vacuum/Air Release Valve must be
approved by the District and must not adversely impact surrounding properties or the
operation of the District water system. New or replaced Fire Hydrants shall be wet barrel
type; newly installed or replaced dry barrel fire hydrants are not permitted. All costs
associated with relocation shall be borne by the requesting party.
SECTION 4. BILLING PROCEDURES
4.1 GENERAL: All accounts are billed at monthly intervals. Applicants desiring to establish
water service shall make applications for water service with District office during regular
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 11
business hours. The District accepts applications for service verbally, via the telephone,
or in person. The applicant shall be required to provide the following information per
account:
4.1.1 Name of applicant(s) (Indicate whether owner or tenant).
4.1.2 Each applicant’s Social Security number, valid state issued driver’s license
number, and date of birth.
4.1.3 Date service is required.
4.1.4 Address of service location.
4.1.5 Applicant’s mailing address, email address, and customer authorized telephone
number(s).
4.1.6 Commercial accounts shall provide adequate business documentation such as
federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), business license, Dunn &
Bradstreet identifier, and/or the personal data of the business owner as the
District, in its sole discretion, deems reasonable for the establishment of a
commercial account.
4.1.7 Other information as the District may reasonably require.
4.2 NEW ACCOUNT SETUP FEE: The District shall charge a new account setup fee for any
service or services established at a service location. The new account setup fee is
assessed each time an account is opened, including a turn on of water service, a
change in residents, a change in property or business ownership, or a change of name,
among other events, which requires opening a new account.
4.2.1 Twenty-four hour notification is required for all service requests. The service
request shall be processed and scheduled. If the request for service is made less
than twenty-four (24) hours prior, a service fee(s) may be assessed. All fees are
pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
4.2.2 Applicants who contact the District after normal business hours to turn on water
service without an active application shall be assessed an after-hours fee and
are required to complete an application as stated above and meet all
requirements for the establishment of service by the next regular business day or
the District may suspend water service until such requirements are met. The
charge for callouts of District representatives for the purpose of reestablishment
of water service, after normal business hours and on holidays, shall be pursuant
to the latest adopted Fee Schedule This provision does NOT apply to
reestablishing service that has been disconnected or suspended due to non-
payment, which is instead described in the District’s Policy for Discontinuation of
Residential Water Service for Nonpayment in accordance with Senate Bill No.
998.
4.3 WATER BILLS, BILLING PERIOD, DUE DATES AND ADDITIONAL SERVICES: The
billing period, charges for additional services, and required deposits are as follows:
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 12
4.3.1 BILLING PERIOD: This is to be based on monthly Meter reads, normally
between 28 and 35 days apart. All invoices are due and payable upon mailing
and shall become delinquent if not paid within 27 days from the Billing Date.
4.3.1.1. If, due to reasons beyond the District’s control, the District is unable to
read the customer’s Meter on the scheduled reading date, the District
may bill the Customer for estimated consumption during the bill period
and make any necessary corrections once the actual Meter read is
obtained. Estimated consumption shall be calculated based on the
Customer’s prior usage history and seasonal changes.
4.3.1.2. Customers who are enrolled in online bill presentment are notified via
email or text (SMS/MMS) when their bill is ready to view. It is the
Customer’s responsibility to view their emails, keep their account profile
updated, and provide a current email address. The District is not
responsible for notifying the Customer of rejected email or text
(SMS/MMS) deliveries.
4.3.1.3. District accepts cash, cashier’s check, money order, personal check,
business check, credit card, or electronic forms of payments. Enhanced
online services are offered by the District through its enhanced online
payment system.
4.3.1.4. All returned forms of payment shall be considered as non-payment and
subject to a returned item fee. The District shall deliver notification of
the returned item to the service location, requiring that payment of the
full value of the item, along with the returned item fee and deposit, if
required, be made within five (5) days from the date of the notice. If
payment is not received by the due date specified on the returned item
notice, the account shall be subject to disconnection of service in
addition to all applicable disconnection fees in accordance with the
District’s Policy for Discontinuation of Residential Water Service for
Nonpayment. The referenced account shall be placed on a “cash only”
(payment by cash, debit or credit card only) status upon notification
from the banking institution of a third returned item within a consecutive
12-month period. The referenced account shall retain the “cash only”
status for a period of one (1) full year (12 full months).
4.3.1.5. The District shall apply all received payments to the oldest debt due.
4.3.1.6. No two party checks are accepted.
4.3.2. DELINQUENT PAYMENTS: An account shall be considered delinquent if
payment of a water bill is not received by the 27th day from the Billing Date. A
Late Payment Fee (as set forth below) shall be immediately assessed on the
past due amount if the account is not paid in full by the 27th day after the bill is
generated. This fee shall be pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
Payments dropped off after normal business hours, after the passing of the 27th
day, shall be considered delinquent. As detailed in the District’s Policy for
Discontinuation of Residential Water Service for Nonpayment, accounts
remaining unpaid 91 days from the Billing Date shall be subject to discontinuance
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 13
of service. All bills are considered delivered after mailing via US Postal Service or
Internet email and the District is not responsible for non-receipt or non-delivery.
Any payment envelope received by the District without a payment enclosed or
with an unsigned check, shall be considered as non-payment.
4.3.3. LATE PAYMENT FEE: A charge equal to ten percent (10%) of current charges
shall be levied against any account if payment is not received by the District on
the 27th day from the Billing Date. Customers shall receive notification of levied
late fee(s) and past due balance. The customer shall be provided with a 62-day
written notice of delinquency and impending disconnection of service by mail.
The notice shall be in conformance with Sections 116900 – 116926 of the
California Health & Safety Code, which is known as the Water Shutoff Protection
Act (California Government Code Sections 60370 – 60375.5 and Senate Bill No.
998) and the District’s Policy for Discontinuation of Residential Water Service for
Nonpayment. The Policy is available on District’s website at
www.ylwd.com/sb998policy. The Policy and all written notices issued under the
Policy are provided in English, Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and
Korean. Late fees may be waived at the discretion of District management, as a
one-time courtesy, due to a life-changing event, within a 12-month period.
4.3.4. NOTICE OF DISCONTINUANCE: Notice of discontinuance and termination of
water service shall be in conformance with Sections 116900 – 116926 of the
California Health & Safety Code, which is known as the Water Shutoff Protection
Act (California Government Code Sections 60370 – 60375.5 and Senate Bill No.
998) and the District’s Policy for Discontinuation of Residential Water Service for
Nonpayment. The charge for this service shall be pursuant to the latest adopted
Fee Schedule.
4.3.5. AMORTIZATION OF UNPAID CHARGES: At the General Manager’s discretion,
a Customer’s payment of their unpaid balance may be amortized in accordance
with the District’s Policy for Discontinuation of Residential Water Service for
Nonpayment.
4.4. METER TESTING: Upon Customer request, a Meter may be tested to determine its
accuracy. The Customer charge for testing the Meter for accuracy, either at the source
or through an independent laboratory, after payment of all other outstanding charges,
shall be pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule. Should the test find the Meter to
be outside the limits of American Water Works Association standards, the charge of the
test shall be credited back to the Customer account and a billing adjustment made on
the next billing cycle, based on the Customer’s average consumption for no more than
twelve (12) months. Testing the Meter for accuracy may require an appointment.
4.5. DEPOSITS: All deposit requirements shall be in conformance with the latest California
Public Utilities Code. Deposits may be required from each new or returning Customer
pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule. A soft credit check shall be conducted to
determine a deposit requirement and to validate the identity of the applicant. Any former
Customer returning to the District and applying after a 6-month period shall be subject to
a soft credit check. A deposit shall be required from a Customer account that holds a
poor payment history with the District, which is defined as containing:
4.5.1. Three (3) or more delinquent payments within a 12-month period;
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 14
4.5.2. Two (2) or more non-sufficient funds (NSF) or ACH rejection fee occurrences
within a 12-month period;
4.5.3. A single NSF or ACH rejection from a payment made on a delinquent account
after a Notice of Discontinuance has been posted; or
4.5.4. A single shut-off.
New residential Customers who have no valid State of California or United States of
America issued identification shall be required to pay the full amount of the deposit at the
time of service application, either in cash or cashier’s check only. A commercial or
irrigation Customer shall be required to pay deposits based on Meter size. Deposits shall
not bear interest. A deposit on file shall be refunded to the Customer’s account after 12
months of continuous on-time payments. If the Customer’s account is delinquent within
the 12-month period, the District shall retain the deposit on hand and start a new 12-
month period. If the District determines the applicant was a previous Customer of the
District and their credit history dictates a deposit and any unpaid balances on prior
account(s), the deposit shall be due and payable before service can be initiated. Such
application signifies the applicant’s willingness and intention to comply with all applicable
District Water Rules and Regulations and to submit full payment of fees and charges on
all subsequent Customer account billings that pertain to the location of service on
record.
4.6 BILLING ERRORS: If a billing error occurs in which the District is found to be at fault,
the account may be adjusted accordingly, pursuant to the District’s Claims Ordinance. If
a billing error occurs and the Customer has been undercharged, or not charged at all,
and the customer has a legal Service Connection, the District may collect up to 12
months of fees and charges upon notice to the Customer.
4.7 WATER THEFT, OBSTRUCTION, AND ENCROACHMENT:
4.7.1 UNAUTHORIZED USE OF SERVICES: Any Person using water and/or sewer
services without an approved application for service and a proper Service
Connection shall be held liable for all water delivered or taken and for any
damages to District property, including locks and angle stops, and for any
associated charges. In no event shall anyone have access to water service that
has not been approved by the District. Tampering with District facilities is illegal,
in accordance with California Penal Code Section 498. Anyone engaged in the
unauthorized use of services as set forth herein shall also be subject to all civil
penalties, costs of remediation, and such other fees and costs that may apply in
accordance with the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
4.7.2 OBSTRUCTING DISTRICT FACILITIES PROHIBITED: Nobody shall in any
way restrict or obstruct access to District facilities which include, without limitation
Meters, pipes, pumps, valves, Hydrants, buildings, access points, air vacuum
devices, pressure regulators, or any other equipment or facility connected to or in
support of the District’s water system. If anybody restricts or obstructs access to
a District facility and does not provide District immediate access, the District
reserves the right to remove obstruction by whatever means reasonably
necessary and bill the customer for all costs associated with removal of the
obstruction. Additionally, above ground structures, above ground landscaping,
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 15
and any other above ground improvements, including a reduction or raising of
grades over District facilities or Easements is prohibited without prior written
consent of the District. Written consent shall include a Declaration of Restrictive
Covenants.
4.7.3 EASEMENTS AND ENCROACHMENTS
It shall be the policy of the District to preserve and enforce its rights under all
Easements within the District and to prohibit encroachment of those Easements.
No non-district owned or constructed facilities of any type, including but not
limited to, pools, structures, hardscape features, or any other feature, monument
or other appurtenance shall be permitted within Easements owned by the District.
In the event of an encroachment, the District may take immediate steps to
remedy the encroachment, including immediate entry onto the property, and the
removal of the encroachment. The District shall not be liable for any damage
caused to the real or personal property of the property owner during the removal
of the encroachment. The property owner shall reimburse the District for all
costs of remedying the encroachment.
4.7.4. ILLEGAL CONNECTIONS: No individual shall connect to the District’s Domestic
Water facilities without application and approval. Tampering with District facilities
is illegal, in accordance with California Penal Code Section 498. Additionally,
anyone illegally connecting to the system shall also be subject to all civil
penalties, costs of remediation, and such other fees and costs that may apply in
accordance with the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
4.7.5. TAMPERED LOCKS: The District may place a lock on a water Meter to prevent
unauthorized use. A tampered lock shall result in a charge pursuant to the latest
adopted Fee Schedule. Tampering with the locks is illegal, in accordance with
California Penal Code Section 498. Additionally, anyone tampering with a lock
shall also be subject to all civil penalties, costs of remediation, and such other
fees and costs that may apply in accordance with the latest adopted Fee
Schedule.
4.7.6. METER REMOVAL: The District may remove a Meter if it is used without
authorization of the District. The charge for removal and resultant replacement,
after payment of any other outstanding charges shall be payable by the account
holder pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule. Meter tampering, which is
illegal, in accordance with California Penal Code Section 498, additionally,
anyone tampering with a lock shall also be subject to all civil penalties, costs of
remediation, and such other fees and costs that may apply in accordance with
the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
4.8 ONE-TIME ADJUSTMENT OF WATER BILL (ONSITE LEAKS)
4.8.1. A Customer request for a one-time adjustment to a water bill for units billed may
be considered if it is determined that a domestic or irrigation leak has been
discovered on the Customer side of the Meter and the following conditions are
met:
4.8.1.1. Proof of the repair of such leak must be provided;
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 16
4.8.1.2. YLWD staff has checked the Meter to ensure the read was accurate
and that the average usage has been returned to normal for that period
of year; and
4.8.1.3. It has been at least five (5) years since a request for a one-time
adjustment has occurred for the Customer connection in question.
4.8.2. If the conditions above are met, the General Manager may approve the
adjustment pursuant to the following formula:
4.8.2.1. Determine what the Customer’s bill would have been had the leak not
occurred by averaging the Customer’s normal usage trend;
4.8.2.2. Determine which water source was utilized (imported or groundwater) to
serve our community for the billing period on the Customer’s bill;
4.8.2.3. Calculate the extra water billed, in units (748 gallons per unit), which
was above the Customer’s determined average and charge the
Customer utilizing the following rate:
A. For Imported Water, the treated rate of the MWDSC (as
identified in the Annual Operating Budget for the time period in
question) shall be used to calculate the per unit cost;
B. For Groundwater, the OCWD Replenishment Assessment and
the treatment/energy charge (as identified in the Annual
Operating Budget for the time period in question) shall be used
to calculate the per unit cost.
4.8.2.4. The Customer shall be charged the raw cost, above their average
usage, for the number of units consumed and measured by the bill.
4.8.3. Any potential assessed penalties or fees which may have accrued during this
process shall be waived provided the adjustment is sought and offered within 30
days from which the billing in question has been received. All decisions of the
General Manager may be appealed to the Board of Directors by filing a written
notice of appeal with the District Secretary at bodsecretary@ylwd.com within 30
days from receipt of the General Manager’s decision.
4.8.4. Filling of swimming pools is specifically excluded from consideration of a one-
time adjustment to a water bill.
SECTION 5. FINAL BILL, CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND METER FAILURE
5.1 Section 5 shall only apply to Customer connections.
5.1.1. FAILURE TO PAY “FINAL BILL” PROCESS: Under the authority of California
Government Code, Section 12419.8, any unpaid balance due on a closed
account, beyond the due date, shall be submitted to 3rd party collection agency
and/or the Franchise Tax Board for interagency intercept collection.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 17
5.1.2. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Failure to receive mail shall not be recognized as a
valid excuse for failure to pay water service charge(s) when due. Change in
occupancy of property supplied with District water and/or changes in mailing
addresses of Customers must be filed at the District office, in writing, by fax, mail,
or online, as available.
5.1.3. METER FAILURE: If a Meter fails to register during any period or is suspected to
have registered inaccurately, the Consumer shall be charged an estimated
consumption calculated based on the Consumer’s prior usage history and
seasonal changes. The Meter shall be replaced or repaired as determined by the
District in its sole discretion.
SECTION 6. WATER USAGE REGULATED
6.1 SUPPLYING ANOTHER PERSON/LOCATION: Water supplied through a Service
Connection shall only be used on the Premises served by the Service Connection and
shall not be supplied to any residence or business other than those located on the
Customer’s own Premises.
6.2 IRRIGATION, SPRINKLING, ETC.: The use of water for irrigation, sprinkling, wetting,
construction, or industrial uses shall be restricted if and when such use is contrary to the
public safety or welfare, or during mandatory water conservation drought conditions, as
determined by the District.
6.3 SHUTTING OFF WATER FOR REPAIRS: The District reserves the right to shut off
water in its Mains without notice to make repairs or for any other purpose deemed
necessary. The District shall not be responsible for any damages which may occur due
to water shut-offs. The owner and/or Consumer shall be conclusively presumed to have
taken all necessary precautions in compliance with the building and plumbing codes in
anticipation of emergency shut-offs. Where a planned shut-off is made every effort shall
be made by the District to notify the Customers.
6.4 WATER PRESSURES: The District shall endeavor to maintain such pressures as
recommended by State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water Title
22 California Code of Regulations (normally 20 to 80 psi). In the event any Consumer
deems that pressures are inadequate, the Consumer shall furnish at their own expense,
devices necessary to boost the pressure for their Premises. If the Customer chooses to
add a booster type device, the District shall require compliance with the Backflow
Prevention Program section of these rules. In the event water pressures are in excess of
any Consumer’s normal requirements, it shall be the responsibility of such water
Consumer to install such devices on their own Premises to protect their plumbing and/or
to reduce the pressure for their normal needs.
SECTION 7. MAINS, METERS AND FIRE HYDRANTS
7.1 CHANGES AND/OR DAMAGES TO MAINS AND FITTINGS: Any street improvements
that will cause the relocation of existing water Mains, fittings, Meters or other water
equipment must have the approval of the District. The District shall be given a written
notice, a minimum of ten (10) working days, prior to start of construction of the approved
project. Any changes which are required or any damages which may occur to such
Mains, fittings, Meters or other water equipment without fault or negligence of the District
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 18
shall be chargeable to the person or agency requiring said work to be done. Any
underground digging shall be in conformance with the Underground Service Alert
described above in Section 1.36.
7.2 SHUT-OFF VALVES: All shut-off valves and angle stops are for use of the District. Such
shut-off valves or angle stops shall not be used or altered in any way or manipulated by
the Consumer except in extreme emergency. A valve shall be installed immediately
downstream from the water Meter and in accordance with the latest District Standards
W-1 and W-2. Irrigation Service Connections are excepted.
7.3 METERS:
7.3.1 SIZING METERS: The District shall determine the size of the Meter required.
Where service conditions change, the District, through the General Manager,
shall at the District’s discretion, have installed a Meter of proper size to meet the
present conditions. The District shall then bill or refund as required.
7.3.2 RIGHT TO METER: The District reserves the right to Meter any service and
apply the latest adopted established rates.
7.3.3 SEALING METERS: All Meters shall be sealed by the District and no seal shall
be altered or broken except by one of its authorized employees or agents.
7.4 CHANGE OF METER:
7.4.1 CHANGE IN SIZE OF METER: Meter resizing shall be in accordance with: (a)
the latest Meter Sizing Resolution; (b) the latest adopted version of the District’s
Policies and Procedures; and (c) Elective Water Meter Resizing Policy. The
minimum size Meter is 1-inch.
7.4.2 CURRENT COST OF METER: The current cost of a Meter as used above shall
be pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule.
7.4.3 CHANGE OF METERS WHERE CHANGE OF SERVICE LINE IS REQUIRED: If
the change of Meter, either an increase or decrease in size requires a change in
service line size, it shall be the Consumer’s responsibility to construct the new
service line.
7.5 METERS, PROPERTY OF DISTRICT: All water services and water Meters installed or
required to be installed by the District shall remain at all times the property of the District
and shall be maintained, repaired, and renewed by the District when rendered
unserviceable by normal wear and tear. Where replacements, repair, or adjustments of
any Meter are caused by: (a) an act of malice or neglect of the Consumer or Person on
Consumer’s property; or (b) any malfunction of any appliance, equipment or operation
on the Consumers property, such replacement, repair, or adjustment shall be charged to
and paid by such Consumer to the District on presentation of a bill therefore. If such bill
is not paid, the Meter shall be shut off from such Premises and shall not be turned on
again until all charges are paid. No Person shall interfere with or remove from any
service any water Meter where it has been so attached.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 19
7.6 METER LOCATION: All Meters of the District shall be: (a) placed at the curb line of the
street, or near the property line in alleys, or as close to the water Main in all other cases
whenever and wherever practicable; and (b) protected and maintained as a part of the
operation of the District. In some instances and circumstances, the Meter may be
relocated by the District in its sole discretion. Where the District, in its sole discretion,
determines that a Meter must be placed upon a Customer’s private property, the District
may do so as a condition of providing or continuing to provide water service.
7.7 METERS INSIDE PREMISES: Where a water Meter is placed inside the Premises of a
Consumer, provisions shall be made by the property owner for convenient Meter reading
and repairing by representatives of the District by granting an Easement to the District,
as close as possible to the public right-of-way, and accessible at all times to District staff
(i.e. not within a gated or inaccessible location). Failure to make provisions by the
Consumer shall be sufficient cause for removal of such Meter at the option of the District
and the withholding of service until installation is made at the curb line as herein
provided. Meters shall not be located inside any structure, home, or building.
7.8 CONSUMER’S RESPONSIBILITY: The District shall not be responsible for any: (a)
damage to person or property arising from any leakage, breakage, or seepage from, or
accident or damage to any Meter or pipe situated within any private Premises; (b)
leakage, breakage, or seepage from any pipe situated between any Meter properly
installed at the curb and the private Premises served thereby; or (c) damage, injury, or
loss occasioned directly or indirectly by the existence of any Meter or pipe situated upon
private property.
7.9 USE OF FIRE HYDRANTS: Public Fire Hydrants shall be located, maintained, and
repaired by the District. Any damage thereto by Persons other than representatives of
the Fire Department or the District shall be a claim against the Person committing such
damage and the District may take action to collect the costs to repair the damages. Fire
Hydrants are provided primarily for the purpose of extinguishing fires and: (a) shall not
be used otherwise unless provided for herein; and (b) shall be opened and used only by
the District and Fire Department or such persons as may be authorized to do so by the
Chief of the Fire Department or the General Manager of the District.
7.10 FIRE HYDRANTS, PERMIT FOR: All unauthorized use of water through a Fire Hydrant
is a violation of these Rules and Regulations. All Persons desiring to use water through
Fire Hydrants, or other hydrants owned or controlled by the District, are required to
complete an application from the District for a temporary construction Meter permit and
pay a deposit. The District shall issue no such permit to any Person who has violated
any of the provisions of these Rules and Regulations or whose indebtedness to the
District for water used, or damage to Hydrants or equipment, is delinquent. All such
Persons having a permit for use of water from the Fire Hydrants shall use hydrant
wrenches for the operation of such Fire Hydrants. The main valve of the Hydrant shall be
used only to: (a) turn the service on and off at the beginning and end of service from the
Hydrant; and (b) to turn the Fire Hydrant off at the end of each work day. The control
valve and Meter shall be removed so as to leave the Fire Hydrant ready for use by the
Fire Department during the night. The main valve shall be either completely open or
closed at all times.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 20
7.11 FIRE HYDRANTS, CANCELLATION OF PERMIT: Permit for the use of water through
the Fire Hydrants of the District may be canceled at the discretion of the District on
evidence that the holder thereof is or has violated the privileges conveyed thereunder.
Such notice of cancellation shall be in writing delivered or mailed to the Persons to be
notified and shall be immediately effective and enforced.
7.12 OBSTRUCTING FIRE HYDRANTS: No Person shall obstruct the access to any Fire
Hydrant by placing around or thereon any stone, brick, lumber, dirt or other material or
willfully or carelessly injure the same, or open or operate any Fire Hydrant, or draw or
attempt to draw water therefrom, except when used with a District installed temporary
construction meter, as discussed in section 3.1.3. Fire Hydrants must have a minimum
clearance radius of five (5) feet.
7.13 NEW OR REPLACED FIRE HYDRANTS: New or replaced Fire Hydrants shall be wet
barrel type; newly installed or replaced dry barrel fire hydrants are not permitted.
SECTION 8. BACKFLOW PREVENTION PROGRAM
8.1 DEFINITIONS OF TERMS
8.1.1 AIR-GAP SEPARATION: A physical break between a supply pipe and a
receiving vessel. The air-gap shall be at least double the diameter of the supply
pipe measured vertically above the top rim of the vessel, in no case less than
one (1) inch.
8.1.2 APPROVED BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE: Devices which have passed
laboratory and field evaluation tests performed by a recognized testing
organization which has demonstrated their competency to perform such tests to
the Health Agency (as defined herein).
8.1.3 APPROVED WATER SUPPLY: Any water supply whose potability is regulated
by a State or local Health Agency.
8.1.4 AUXILIARY WATER SUPPLY: Any water supply on or available to the Premises
other than the Approved Water Supply.
8.1.5 BACKFLOW: A flow condition, caused by a differential in pressure, which
causes the flow of water or other liquids, gases, mixtures or substances into the
distributing pipes of a Potable supply of water from any source or sources other
than an Approved Water Supply source. Back-siphonage is one cause of
Backflow. Backpressure is the other cause.
8.1.6 CONTAMINATION: A degradation of the quality of Potable W ater by any foreign
substance which creates a hazard to public health or which may impair the
usefulness or quality of the water.
8.1.7 CROSS-CONNECTION: Any unprotected (actual or potential) connection
between a Potable W ater system used to supply water for drinking purposes and
any source or system containing unapproved water or a substance that is not or
cannot be approved as safe, wholesome, and Potable. By-pass arrangements,
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 21
jumper connections, removable sections, swivel or changeover devices, or other
devices through which Backflow could occur, shall be considered to be Cross-
Connections.
8.1.8 DOUBLE CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLY: An assembly of at least two (2)
independently acting check valves including: (a) tightly closing shut-off valves on
each side of the check valve assembly; and (b) test cocks available for testing
the water tightness of each check valve.
8.1.9 HEALTH AGENCY: The State Water Resources Control Board, Department of
Drinking Water, or the Local Health Agency with respect to a small water system.
8.1.10 LOCAL HEALTH AGENCY: The county or city health authority.
8.1.11 POTABLE WATER: Water deemed safe for drinking as determined by the
Health Agency and District.
8.1.12 PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM: A system for the provision of piped water to the
public for human consumption which has five (5) or more service connections or
regularly serves an average of 25 individuals daily at least 60 days out of the
year.
8.1.13 RECLAIMED WATER: Wastewater which, as a result of treatment, is suitable for
uses other than Potable use.
8.1.14 REDUCED PRESSURE PRINCIPLE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE: A
device incorporating: (a) two (2) or more check valves and an automatically
operating differential relief valve located between the two (2) check valves; (b) a
tightly closing shut-off valve on each side of the Double Check Valve Assembly;
and (c) equipped with necessary test cocks for testing.
8.1.15 WATER USER: Any person obtaining water from an Approved W ater Supply
system.
8.2 PURPOSE: The purpose of this Backflow Prevention Program (“Program”) is: (a) to
protect the Public W ater System against actual or potential Cross Connection by
isolating within the Premises Contamination that may occur because of some
undiscovered or unauthorized Cross-Connection on the Premises; (b) to eliminate
existing connections between Public W ater Systems and other sources of water that are
not approved as safe and Potable for human consumption; (c) to eliminate Cross-
Connections between Public W ater Systems and sources of Contamination; (d) to
prevent the making of Cross-Connections in the future. The purpose of this Program
complies with the latest adopted State of California Administrative Code, Title 17,
(Commencing with Section 7583) - Public Health entitled “Regulations Relating to Cross-
Connections”.
8.3 CROSS-CONNECTION PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS: It is unlawful for any Person
at any time to make or maintain or cause to be made or maintained, temporarily or
permanently, for any period of time whatsoever: (a) any Cross-Connection between
plumbing pipes or water fixtures conveying water by the District and any other source of
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 22
water supply; or (b) to maintain any sanitary fixture or other appurtenances or fixtures,
which by reason of their construction may cause or allow Backflow of water or other
substances into the Public W ater System of the District and/or the service of water pipes
or fixtures of any Consumer.
8.3.1 GENERAL PROVISIONS:
8.3.1.1 Unprotected Cross-Connections with the District Public W ater System
are prohibited.
8.3.1.2 Whenever Backflow protection has been found necessary, the District
shall require the W ater User to install an approved Backflow prevention
device by and at his/her expense for continued services or before a new
service shall be granted.
8.3.1.3 Whenever Backflow protection has been found necessary on a water
supply line entering a Water User’s Premises, then any and all water
supply lines from the District’s Mains entering such Premises, buildings
or structures shall be protected by an approved Backflow prevention
device. The type of device to be installed shall be in accordance with
the requirements of this Program.
8.3.1.4 Each time there is a change of Customer (either owner or tenant) on
any commercial or industrial Premises, the new or previous owner or
Customer shall notify the District immediately. The District shall then
reassess the level of protection required. In addition, any alterations to
existing Onsite Facilities that may affect the level of protection required
must be reported immediately to the District. Failure to report shall
result in termination of water service.
8.3.1.5 These provisions shall be in addition to and not in lieu of the controls
and requirements of other regulatory agencies, such as Health
Agencies and Local Health Agencies. These provisions are intended to
protect the District’s Potable Water supply and are not intended to
provide regulatory measures for protection of Water Users from hazards
of Cross-Connections within their own Premises. Notwithstanding these
provisions, the District accepts no responsibility for Cross-Connections
or resulting hazards or Contamination.
8.3.2 WHERE PROTECTION IS REQUIRED:
8.3.2.1 Each Service Connection from the District Public W ater System to
Premises having an Auxiliary W ater Supply shall be protected against
Backflow of water from the Premises into the Public W ater System
unless the Auxiliary Water Supply is accepted as an additional source
by the District, and is approved by the Health Agency having
jurisdiction.
8.3.2.2 Each Service Connection from the District Public W ater System to any
Premises on which any substance is handled in such fashion as may
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 23
allow its entry into the Pubic W ater System shall be protected against
Backflow of water from the Premises into the Public Water System. This
shall include the handling of process waters and waters originating from
the District Public W ater System, which have been subjected to
deterioration in sanitary quality.
8.3.2.3 Backflow prevention devices shall be installed on the Service
Connection to any Premises having: (a) internal Cross-Connections that
cannot be permanently corrected and controlled to the satisfaction of
the Health Agency or Local Health Agency and the District; or (b)
intricate plumbing and piping arrangements where entry to all portions
of the Premises is not readily accessible for inspection purposes,
making it impracticable or impossible to ascertain whether or not Cross-
Connections exist.
8.3.3 TYPE OF PROTECTION REQUIRED:
8.3.3.1 The type of protection that shall be provided to prevent Backflow into
the Approved Water Supply shall be commensurate with the degree of
hazard that exists on the Consumer’s Premises. The type of protective
device that may be required (listing in an increasing level of protection)
includes: (a) Double Check Valve Assembly (DC); (b) Reduced
Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Device (RP); and (c) an Air-Gap
Separation (AG). The Water User may choose a higher level of
protection than required by the District. The minimum type of Backflow
protection required to protect the Approved W ater Supply at the Water
User’s Service Connection to Premises with varying degrees of hazard
are provided in Table 1 of the latest adopted State of California
Administrative Code, Title 17. Additionally, two (2) or more services
supplying water from different street Mains to the same building,
structure, or Premises through which an inter-street Main flow may
occur, shall have at least a standard check valve on each Service
Connection to be located adjacent to and on the property side of the
respective Meters. Such check valve shall not be considered adequate
if Backflow protection is deemed necessary to protect the District’s
Mains from pollution or Contamination. In such cases, the installation of
approved Backflow devices at such Service Connections shall be
required. Situations which are not covered in Table 1 of the latest
adopted State of California Administrative Code, Title 17, shall be
evaluated on a case by case basis and the appropriate Backflow
protection shall be determined by the District or Health Agency.
8.4 BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES
8.4.1 APPROVED BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES: Only Backflow prevention
devices which have been approved by the District shall be acceptable for
installation by a W ater User connected to the District’s Public Water System. The
District shall provide, upon request, a list of approved Backflow prevention
devices.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 24
8.4.2 BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE INSTALLATION: Backflow prevention
devices shall be installed in a manner prescribed in Section 7602 and 7603 of the
Title 17 California Administrative Code. Per District Standard Drawings, location
of the devices should be as close as practical to the Water User’s Service
Connection and shall be installed above-grade in a manner where it is readily
accessible for testing and maintenance. The District shall have the final authority
in determining the required location of a Backflow prevention device. All Backflow
prevention device installations shall be in accordance with the District Standard
Specifications for Construction of Water Mains, latest edition. Maintenance and
repair of Backflow prevention devices are the responsibility of the W ater User
and not the District.
8.4.3 BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE TESTING AND MAINTENANCE:
8.4.3.1 The owners of any Premises on which, or on account of which,
Backflow prevention devices are installed shall have the devices tested
by a Person who has demonstrated their competency in testing of these
devices to the District. Backflow prevention devices must be tested at
least annually and immediately after installation, relocation, or repair.
The District may require a more frequent testing schedule if it is
determined to be necessary. No device shall be placed back in service
unless it is functioning as required. A report in a form acceptable to the
District shall be filed with the District each time a device is tested,
relocated, or repaired. These devices shall be serviced, overhauled, or
replaced whenever they are found to be defective and all costs of
testing, repair, and maintenance shall be borne by the Water User.
8.4.3.2 The District shall supply affected Water Users with a list of Persons
acceptable to the District to test Backflow prevention devices. The
District shall notify affected Customers by mail when annual testing of a
device is needed and also supply Water Users with the necessary forms
which must be filled out each time a device is tested or repaired.
8.4.3.3 The District may randomly test various Backflow prevention devices at
no cost to the Customer. This testing shall in no way relieve the
Customer from responsibility for maintaining functional devices, but
shall serve to help assure that the Program is serving its intended
purpose.
8.4.4 BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE REMOVAL: Approval must be obtained
from the District before a Backflow prevention device is removed, relocated, or
replaced.
8.4.4.1 REMOVAL: The use of a device may be discontinued and the device
removed from service upon presentation of sufficient evidence to the
District to verify that a hazard no longer exists or is not likely to be
created in the future.
8.4.4.2 RELOCATION: A device may be relocated following confirmation by the
District that the relocation will continue to provide the required
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 25
protection and satisfy installation requirements. A retest shall be
required following the relocation of the device.
8.4.4.3 REPAIR : A device may be removed for repair, provided the water use is
either: (a) discontinued until repair is completed and the device is
returned to service; or (b) the service connection is equipped with other
Backflow protection approved by the District. A retest shall be required
following the repair of the device.
REPLACEMENT: A device may be removed and replaced provided the
water use is discontinued until the replacement device is installed. All
replacement devices must be approved by the District and must be
commensurate with the degree of hazard involved. A device that is
located in a below grade vault, which has failed certification and parts
for repairs are no longer available, shall be replaced and relocated
above grade and the vault abandoned in accordance with District
Standard Drawings W-16 and W -16A.
8.4.4.4 EXISTING ASSEMBLY: If an assembly in service is not an approved
Backflow prevention device based on the latest standards, but was
approved when installed, it may remain in service, provided it functions
properly and passes testing. An assembly not recognized as an
approved Backflow prevention device shall be removed and replaced
with a currently approved Backflow prevention device.
8.4.5 USER SUPERVISOR: At each Premise, where it is necessary, in the opinion of
the District, a user supervisor shall be designated by and at the expense of the
Water User. This user supervisor shall be responsible for the monitoring of the
Backflow prevention devices and for avoidance of Cross Connections. In the
event of Contamination or pollution of the Public W ater System due to a Cross-
Connection on the Premises, the District shall be promptly notified by the user
supervisor so that appropriate measures may be taken to remedy the
Contamination. The Water User shall inform the District of the user supervisor’s
identity on, as a minimum, an annual basis and whenever a change occurs, in
accordance with Title-17 Public Health, California Administrative Code.
8.5 ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
8.5.1 WATER SYSTEM SURVEY:
8.5.1.1 The District shall review all requests for new services to determine if
Backflow protection is needed. Specifications must be submitted to the
District upon request for review of possible Cross-Connection hazards
as a condition of service for new Service Connections. If it is determined
that a Backflow prevention device is necessary to protect the Public
Water System, the required device must be installed before service
shall be granted.
8.5.1.2 On-Premise inspection to evaluate Cross-Connection hazards is a
requirement under Title-17 Public Health, California Administrative
Code, regulations relating to Cross Connections, Section 7584 (b), (c)
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 26
and (d). The District shall transmit a written notice requesting an
inspection appointment to each affected Water User. Any Customer
which cannot or will not allow an on-Premise inspection of their piping
system shall be required to install the Backflow prevention device the
District considers necessary.
8.5.1.3 The District may, at its discretion, require a re-inspection for Cross-
Connection hazards of any Premises to which it serves water. The
District shall transmit a written notice requesting an inspection
appointment to each affected W ater User. Any Customer which cannot
or will not allow an on-Premise inspection of their piping system shall be
required to install the Backflow prevention device that the District
considers necessary.
8.5.2 CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION — DEVICE INSTALLATION:
8.5.2.1 The District shall notify the Water User of the survey findings, listing
corrective action to be taken if required. A period of 60 days shall be
given to complete all corrective action required including installation of
Backflow prevention devices.
8.5.2.2 A second notice shall be sent to each W ater User which does not take
the required corrective action prescribed in the first notice within the 60
days period allowed. The second notice shall give the Water User a 2-
week period to take the required corrective action. If no action is taken
within the 2-week period, the District may terminate water service to the
affected W ater User until the required corrective actions are taken.
8.5.3 CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION — TESTING AND MAINTENANCE:
8.5.3.1 The District shall notify each affected Customer when it is time for the
Backflow prevention device installed on their Service Connection to be
tested. This written notice shall give the Water User 30 days to have the
device tested and supply the Water User with the necessary form to be
completed and resubmitted to the District.
8.5.3.2 A second notice shall be sent to each Customer which does not have
their Backflow prevention device tested as prescribed in the first notice
within the 30-day period allowed. The second notice shall give the
Customer a 2-week period to have their Backflow prevention device
tested. If no action is taken within the 2-week period the District may
terminate water service to the affected W ater User until the subject
device is tested.
8.5.4 BACKFLOW DEVICE MONITORING FEE: For each Service Connection where
a Backflow device is required pursuant to these Rules and Regulations, a
“Backflow device Monitoring fee” shall be imposed. The fee shall be levied
pursuant to the latest adopted Fee Schedule, and shall be included on the
Customer’s water bill.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 27
8.6 WATER SERVICE TERMINATION:
8.6.1 GENERAL: When the District encounters water uses that represent a clear and
immediate hazard to the Public Water System that cannot be immediately
abated, the District shall institute the procedure for discontinuing the District
water service.
8.6.2 BASIS OF TERMINATION: Conditions or water uses that create a basis for
water service termination shall include, but are not limited to, the following items:
8.6.2.1 Refusal to install a required Backflow prevention device.
8.6.2.2 Refusal to test a Backflow prevention device.
8.6.2.3 Refusal to repair a faulty Backflow prevention device.
8.6.2.4 Refusal to replace a faulty Backflow prevention device.
8.6.2.5 Direct or indirect connection between the Public Water System and a
sewer line.
8.6.2.6 Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the Public W ater
System and a system or equipment containing contaminants.
8.6.2.7 Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the Public W ater
System and an Auxiliary Water system.
8.6.2.8 Intentional or accidental interference with or intrusion into the Public
Water System.
8.6.2.9 A situation which presents an immediate health hazard to the Public
Water System.
8.6.3 WATER SERVICE TERMINATION PROCEDURES:
8.6.3.1 If one or more of the conditions defined in Sections 8.7.2.1 to 8.7.2.4
are found, the District shall terminate service to a Customer’s Premises
after two (2) written notices have been sent specifying the corrective
action needed and the time period in which it must be done. If no action
is taken within the allowed time period, water service may be
terminated.
8.6.3.2 If one or more of the conditions defined in Sections 8.7.2.5 to 8.7.2.8
are found, the District shall take the following steps:
A. Make reasonable effort to advise the Water User of intent to
terminate water service;
B. Terminate water supply and lock service valve. The water
service shall remain inactive until correction of violations has
been approved by the District.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 28
8.6.3.3 Should a water service termination be determined and executed by the
District, as defined in this section, the Customer shall be subject to the
shut-off and re-establishment of service fees found in the latest adopted
Fee Schedule.
SECTION 9. POLICY ON WATER MAIN AND SERVICE EXTENSIONS
9.1 APPLICATION: Anyone who, as owner or sub-divider of a single lot, subdivision or tract
of land, desires the extension of water Mains and/or connection of water service to such
lot, subdivision or tract of land, shall file a written application with the District. All
applicants for water service shall also comply with the District’s Rules and Regulations
for Sewer Service.
9.2 FEES, CHARGES AND EASEMENTS: Prior to the General Manager signing the
Improvement Plans or approving an application for water service, the applicant shall
dedicate all Easements deemed necessary by the District and pay to the District all fees
in the amount set forth in Section 3 herein. Non-District improvements (permanent,
temporary, or mobile) are not permitted within Easement area, unless approved by the
Board of Directors and/or the General Manager as appropriate.
9.3 EASEMENT QUITCLAIM: The District shall consider a Customer’s request to quitclaim
an existing Easement to the property owner provided that:
9.3.1 No existing District facilities are within the Easement; or
9.3.2 All District facilities have been abandoned, and no active facilities, are within the
Easement; and
9.3.3 The District has no future plans to install District facilities within the Easement;
and
9.3.4 General Manager provides approval.
9.3.4.1 If the issuance of a Quitclaim is approved by the District: (a) the
Quitclaim shall not include the rights, whatever they may be, described
in the District’s 1911 Easement if the land subject to the Quitclaim is
burdened by (i.e., partially described in) the 1911 Easement; and (b) the
Customer shall pay for all fees required to develop and execute the
quitclaim documents, up-to 8-hours of District staff or consultant’s time,
based on the current rate schedule.
9.4 INSTALLATION: If and when applicant has complied with all requirements of the District
and such other provisions of the subdivision ordinance or ordinances dealing with public
improvements as may be applicable, the applicant shall install, in accordance with these
Rules and Regulations and the District’s Specifications, such Mains and services which
are required to provide service to the property described in the application. Applicant
shall indemnify and hold the District, its Directors, officers, employees, and District
Consultants and Contractors harmless from any loss or damage that may arise from the
installation of the water facilities. All Main extensions shall be installed across the entire
frontage of the parcel of land to be served. Main extensions are extensions of
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 29
distribution pipelines, exclusive of Service Connections, beyond existing Offsite
Facilities.
9.4.1 COSTS: The cost of said installation shall be paid by the applicant, and shall
include the cost of engineering, construction, land acquisition and legal services
paid by applicant in connection with said installation. The applicant shall report
such cost of said installation to the District in a form approved by the District, and
all items, such as cost of installation, reported shall be supported by invoices or
statements verified to the satisfaction of the District.
9.4.2 TITLE: Upon completion and acceptance of facilities, the applicant shall transfer
title of said water facilities to the District where they shall become and remain the
property of the District.
9.5 LOCATION, SIZE AND TYPE OF WATER MAIN AND SERVICE FACILITIES: The
applicant’s design engineer shall: (a) be a civil engineer licensed by the State of
California, who shall directly supervise and check the Specifications and sign their name
and registration number thereto; and (b) under direction of the District’s Engineering
Manager, shall use the latest adopted District Master Plan and the latest version of the
District’s computer hydraulic model to determine the size, type and location for all water
Mains in streets, alleys, and Easements. The type and make of valves, Fire Hydrants,
fittings, consumer services and all other appurtenances deemed necessary for supplying
water to the property served shall conform to District Specifications.
9.6 NUMBER OF APPLICANTS. Either an individual may file an application or two (2) or
more persons may join in an application for the extension of water Mains.
9.7 APPROVAL OF WATER MAIN, FIRE SERVICE LINE AND /OR SERVICE
EXTENSIONS: Each application for water Main, fire service line and/or service
extension shall be given a job number, and shall require Terms and Conditions approved
by the District’s Board of Directors and Specifications approved by the General
Manager. A sketch showing the extent of the facilities necessary for water service shall
be prepared and the application shall identify the number of Service Connections and
estimated fees required for service.
9.8 APPROVAL TO CONSTRUCT WATER FACILITIES: When said applicant has complied
with all requirements of the District, including payment of all fees required in Section 3
and the posting of a Guarantee Bond, and such other provisions of the subdivision
ordinance or ordinances dealing with public improvements as may be applicable, the
District shall approve construction of the water facilities.
9.9 CONDITION AS PREREQUISITE TO INSTALLATION OF MAINS: Water Mains and
Fire Hydrants shall not be installed until after the curbs and gutters have been
constructed, excepting that an initial Hydrant may be set upon the approval of the
General Manager to provide construction water in compliance with Section 3 herein.
Under no conditions shall the applicant install water Mains and Fire Hydrants unless
streets are well defined by lot stakes, curb stakes, or visible center line stakes properly
set at the landowner’s expense. If, after any water facility has been installed and it has to
be adjusted, raised, lowered, or relocated because of incorrect information as to grade of
curbs, property lines, etc., all expense incurred by making the changes shall be borne by
the applicant.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 30
9.10 WATER RIGHTS DEEDED: Whenever land is to be subdivided or annexed to the
District and served by District facilities, any water right which may be appurtenant to said
land shall be deeded to the District in consideration of the District approving any
application for District water to be accessed by such tract or subdivision. Said deed to
the District shall be executed before any such application shall be approved by the
District.
9.11 WATER IMPROVEMENTS: Customers shall install water improvements in accordance
with the latest version of the following District documents and in accordance with all
laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations pertaining to the conduct of the work:
9.11.1 Standard Specifications and Drawings for Construction of Domestic Water and
Sewer Facilities
9.11.2 Will Serve Letter for Water Service
9.11.3 District Terms and Conditions for Water and Sewer Service
9.11.4 Water Service Agreement between the District and the Customer
SECTION 10. PROTECTION FROM DAMAGE
10.1 No unauthorized Person shall maliciously, willfully, or negligently remove, change,
disturb, break, damage, destroy, uncover, deface, or in any way tamper, or interfere with
any facility, apparatus, appliance, property, structure, appurtenance, or equipment which
is used or maintained as a part of the water works. Any Person violating this provision
shall be subject to immediate arrest under charge of disorderly conduct. Tampering with
potable water facilities is a Federal offense, in accordance with U.S. Code Title 42
Section 300i-1.
SECTION 11. POWERS AND AUTHORITY OF INSPECTORS
11.1 The General Manager and other duly authorized employees of the District, bearing
proper credentials and identification, shall enter Premises for the purposes of inspection,
observations, measurement, sampling and testing in accordance with the provisions of
these Rules and Regulations, provided that the property owner, or their designated
representative, provides an invitation to enter Premises.
11.2 The General Manager and other duly authorized employees of the District, bearing
proper credentials and identification, shall be permitted to enter all private properties
through which the District holds an Easement for the purposes of, but not limited to,
inspection, observation, measurement, sampling, repair, operation, and maintenance of
any portion of the water and sewerage works lying within said Easement, which shall be
done in full accordance with the terms of the Easement pertaining to the private property
involved.
11.3 An official District issued identification card shall be carried by all District employees, and
shall be available upon request of property owner or the designated representatives, if
required to enter private Premises.
YLWD Rules and Regulations for Water Service 2021 31
SECTION 12. VIOLATIONS
12.1 Any Person found to be violating any provision of these Rules and Regulations
shall be served by the District with written notice stating the nature of the
violation and providing a reasonable time limit for the satisfactory correction
thereof. The offender shall, within the period of time stated in such notice,
permanently cease all violations.
12.2 Any Person who continues any violation beyond the time limit provided for shall
have their water service subject to discontinuance. Reinstatement of water
service shall be made only on correction of the violation and payment of all
applicable fees.
12.3 Any Person violating any of the provisions of these Rules and Regulations shall
become liable to the District for any expense, loss, or damage occasioned by the
District by reason of such violation.
SECTION 13. VALIDITY
13.1 The invalidity of any section, sentence, clause, or provision of these Rules and
Regulations shall not affect the validity of any other part of these Rules and Regulations
which can be given effect without such invalid part.