FAQs | Tahoe City Public Utility District

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General Water and Sewer
Does the TCPUD add any chemicals to the water? Yes, chlorine, in the form of 12.5% sodium hypochlorite (liquid bleach) is added to most TCPUD water sources. This is added to maintain a safety barrier for the customer in the unlikely event some type of pathogenic organism contamination occurs. Although the chlorine is often noticeable by taste and smell, we maintain very low chlorine residuals (0.2 to 0.3 parts per million) to provide an adequate safety barrier while minimizing the effect on the taste and odor of the water. Occasionally, higher levels of chlorine are required during system maintenance; however these levels should return to normal within 2-48 hours, and do not pose a health threat. ADDITIONAL CHLORINE FAQs
Does the TCPUD add flouride to my water? Currently the TCPUD does NOT add flouride to its drinking water.
How can I locate my water service box in the winter time? There are several different water providers within the TCPUD service area. Please refer to the Water Service Area Map located in the maps link under Your Government.
How do I winterize the water system in my house? The most convenient and popular way to winterize your home is by the customer installing a stop and drain valve in a location accessible year round. This valve allows the customer to conveniently shut off their water, and when closed allows the internal house piping to drain out, preventing freezing pipes in cold temperatures. In addition it provides the customer an easy location to shut off their water for repairs to their plumbing, without having to call out the TCPUD for a water turn off/on, which has a service charge minimum of $35.00. Running bleeders to prevent frozen pipes is NOT an acceptable practice, and is an enforceable violation of the TCPUD Ordinance No. 263. Contact a local plumber for more information on stop and drain valves. If you plan to install a stop and drain valve, it must be done correctly to ensure the drinking water won't become potentially contaminated. Contact the Compliance Services Division at (530) 580-6281 for more information and assistance.
I have a sewer easement on my property, what does this mean? Sewer line easements allow the TCPUD to operate and maintain sewer facilities on property other than State or County right of ways. This easement area is to remain free from the erection or placement of any structures such as fences, outbuildings and decorative rocks. In addition, landscaping in these areas is hightly discouraged. The TCPUD will not be responsible for damage to any structures or landscaping which are located within the easement boundaries, should access for operation, maintenance or repair be required.
My sewer backed up, and the plumber who came out and cleared it said I have roots in my line. What can I do about that? It is important to ask the plumber to inform you of approximately where the root blockage was. If the blockage occured on the house sewer service line between the property line and the home, it is the customer's responsibility to repair. If the blockage appears to be between the property line and the street, please notify the TCPUD and we will investigate if repairs are necessary.
My water pressure is too low, can you increase it? The TCPUD water system pressure is based on elevation change between the water storage tank and the point of delivery. In some instances, homes with an elevation close to that of the tank (within 80 feet) will have a normal pressure of 35 psi or less, with even less pressure in upper level facilities. This is normal and for the most part can't be improved. In some cases, customers have installed small booster pumps in their home to increase the operating pressure. If your pressure has decreased over time and you suspect a problem please call the TCPUD for assistance.
What does the TCPUD do to ensure that my drinking water is safe? All of the TCPUD water sources and distribution systems are operated in compliance with the California Safe Drinking Water Act. These regulations provide all guidelines to ensure the customer receives water that is safe and pleasant for consumption. These regulations include a water quality monitoring schedule which requires the TCPUD to perform periodic sampling of the water to ensure its safety and quality. Results of this sampling are provided to the customer on an annual basis in a report known as the Consumer Confidence Report. Click here to view the current version of this report. For more specific questions please contact the TCPUD.
What is the TCPUD responsible for? The TCPUD is responsible for maintenance and repair of all water mains and service extentions. The service extentions begin at the distribution main and end at the curb stop or valve located on the street or easement side of the service box.
Where are my sewer cleanouts located? Typically, there are a minimum of two cleanouts. One is located within 5 feet of the property line, and the other within 5 feet of the building foundation. Maintenance of, and keeping cleanout boxes exposed is the customer's responsibility. It is a good idea to snow stake your cleanouts in the winter time and make sure the boxes are exposed and visible in the spring. If you have trouble locating your cleanouts, the TCPUD may be able to provide you with a map which may assist you.
Where does my water come from? Currently, the majority of the water provided by the TCPUD comes from deep groundwater wells located in various locations in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Water for the McKinney/Quail water system is also supplemented in the summer months from a surface water treatment plant that treats water from Lake Tahoe.
Where does the sewer flow from my house end up? Sewage collected from the North and West shores of Lake Tahoe converges in Tahoe City and flows in a 36" pipe along the Truckee River corridor to the Tahoe-Truckee Sanitation Agency (TTSA) wastewater treatment plant located on the eastern side of Truckee.
Where is my water meter/shutoff box located? The location of the customer's water meter/shutoff box varies, but is typically located at one of the front property corners. Many areas in the Highlands subdivision have their water meter/shutoff box located behind their homes within well-defined public utility easements.
Who is my water provider? There are several different water providers within the TCPUD service area. Please refer to the Water Service Area Map.
Who is responsible for locating and maintaining my water meter/shutoff box and the water line from the box to the house? The customer is responsible for locating and maintaining the water meter/shutoff box and the water line from the box to the house. The TCPUD may, at the request of the customer, field locate water lines and facilities if TCPUD personnel and equipment are available. The customer shall reimburse the District a standard service charge plus any additional charges for this request. When the District record drawings do not show locations for water services, the District will locate and identify services, including field locations, at no expense to the customer.
Why do I get two sewer bills? You are billed by the TCPUD for sewer collection costs, and by TTSA for sewer treatment costs separately.

Water Quality and Safety
How do I know what the results of these tests are? The numerous and ongoing tests for contaminants such as; lead, arsenic, copper and bacteria are summarized in an annual water quality report. This report, known as the Consumer Confidence Report, must be published and made available to all customers by June 30th each year. Notices that the Consumer Confidence Report is available are mailed to each customer (owner of record) and posted to our website. We encourage customers to view the report on our website. However, we can provide hard copies by mail upon request. Please call (530) 580-6325 if you would like a copy mailed to you.
How many and how often are tests performed? As part of our overall Water Quality Program, TCPUD water utility staff regularly collect water over 300 samples annually throughout the District. All water samples are evaluated by certified, third party environmental laboratories accredited by the State of California, Environment Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP). Distribution system bacteriological monitoring is required by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and by the US EPA through the Total Coliform Rule. The objective of this testing is to monitor for the presence of certain bacteria which may be an indicator of other pathogens in the drinking water. TCPUD takes total coliform samples weekly, totaling approximately 240 per year, to ensure all water going through the distribution system is absent of bacteria and complies with the Total Coliform Rule. Source water bacteriological monitoring is also required by SWRCB. Samples are taken quarterly at each of the District’s active water sources to monitor the source water, like the distribution system, for bacterial activity. Additionally, these tests are required monthly at the water treatment plant that serves the Chamberlands/McKinney area during summer operation. Disinfectant residual and disinfection byproducts monitoring are required by the US EPA Disinfection ByProducts Rule. Monitoring is performed regularly and reports are provided to SWRCB quarterly. The purpose of this testing is to ensure the trace amounts of chlorine used to keep the system disinfected and any possible byproducts generated by the disinfectant both remain below the maximum allowable levels. Lead and Copper Rule monitoring is also performed every three years for each TCPUD system. These tests are ideally performed at residences which were typically built after 1982 and before 1986 which have a higher likelihood of having internal plumbing consisting of copper pipes that were joined using lead containing solder. Lead containing solder was banned in 1986 by the State of California. Samples are taken within individual residences under strict guidelines to ensure test accuracy. It was this testing and the resulting issues that put Flint, MI in the news.
Is TCPUD water at risk for lead contamination? The TCPUD is not aware of any lead service pipes in our water system or in our customers pipes and the amount of lead containing solder used to join copper pipes in our area’s households is very low. However, we routinely test for lead and copper using a strict protocol and the cooperation of homeowners to properly obtain samples from their homes. For more information, contact the TCPUD Utilities Department at (530) 580-6278.
Is TCPUD water tested? Yes, TCPUD water is tested regularly to ensure your water meets or exceeds all State and Federal drinking water standards. Much of this testing is required by law and includes State oversight, but additional tests or increased testing frequency are routinely performed by TCPUD as internal measures to ensure an even higher standard in water quality and safety.
What do these test results really mean? We recognize that the there is a lot of information contained in the consumer confidence report. However, in its basic form the consumer confidence report presents customers with the levels of detected contaminants in your water, what the acceptable levels of these contaminants are, and what the potential health effects of the detected contaminants might be. We are pleased to report that all standards are currently met or exceeded by TCPUD water. If you have specific questions or want a more detailed explanation of the test results please contact Dan Lewis, Utilities Superintendent, at (530) 580- 6330.
What if I want my water tested? The test the TCPUD commissions uses an independent lab for Lead and Copper evaluation and costs about $60 per sample. If you would like to have your tap water independently tested, TCPUD is happy to assist you in obtaining your own test and results. To request assistance call the utilities department at (530) 580-6325. Other steps you can take to protect your family, include purchasing a certified water filter, making sure you flush out the lines after a period of stagnation (and use it to water plants) in order to get fresh water that is coming from the main, and avoiding consuming water from the hot water tap, where lead or other contaminants are more likely to be present. To find a listing of certified water filters please visit the NSF website: nsf.org or the State water Resources Control Board website at: waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/certlic/device/watertreatmentdevices.shtml You can also find more guidance at: DrinkTap.org. The situation in Flint highlights that our job as a water provider is to protect the families we serve. We at TCPUD take very seriously our obligation to protect our public’s health. Please contact us at (530) 580-6325 if you have any questions or concerns regarding your water quality and safety.
Why was Flint’s water so high in Lead? We do not have firsthand information about Flint, however, it has been reported that Flint’s water infrastructure includes a significant amount of lead service pipes. This is not, in and of itself a problem, unless the water passing through lead pipes has corrosive properties. Corrosive water will leach lead (and copper) from the piping and joints, thereby raising the amount of lead and/or copper in the water to above acceptable levels coming out of the tap. It has been reported that when Flint changed their source of water, the new source was much more corrosive and was not properly treated for that condition, thereby leading to lead contamination issues.
Why wasn’t Flint’s lead contamination caught sooner? Consistent and proper testing methods are critical to obtain accurate test results. For lead and copper tests, water is taken from residential faucets rather than at the source or distribution points (as is the case for most testing). To have an accurate test, the water MUST sit in the piping for between 6- 12 hours without any flushing of the home’s water system. Furthermore, samples MUST be taken immediately when a tap is turned on, also known as “first draw”. If water does not sit in the pipes for the specific 6-12 hour window or if a faucet is allowed to “flush” prior to obtaining a sample, the water analysis will not yield accurate results. If the testing methods in Flint were not properly administered, the high lead content could go undetected.

Water Meter
How can I estimate what my water bill will be? Your monthly bill will have a breakdown of your water consumption and base rate charges. You can visit the District's water rate calculator on our website, then select the “Rate Calculator” hyperlink. For tips reading your water bill, view this information on our website. The District’s rates are located here.
How can I tell how much water my irrigation system is using? If you are familiar with how to read your water meter (see Q4 or How to Read Your Water Meter), then try this technique: Open the lid and make your meter register visible. Activate one of your irrigation zones, and return to the meter. Wait a couple of minutes to insure your sprinklers are free from air and steady. Use a stopwatch to time how many gallons are being used in one minute. You can do this by starting your stopwatch when the large pointer on the meter dial passes 0. When your timer reaches one minute, immediately check the position of the pointer. If the pointer started at 0 and ended up at 6, then that irrigation zone is using 6 gallons per minute. If the pointer passed 0 again before one minute was up, it would be 10 gallons, plus the number the pointer was at when one minute is up. Once you establish how many gallons per minute that zone is using, check to see how many minutes that zone is running, multiply the number of minutes and the number of gallons per minute observed above. This will give you the total gallons used for that particular zone per cycle. Repeat for all of the remaining zones to determine how much water one full irrigation cycle uses. Multiply this by the number of days per month your irrigation is running to determine how much water will be used by irrigation each month. Refer to Q6 to see what the cost for this water will be.
How do I check for water leaks? Even if you don't see any obvious leaks around the house, it is helpful to occasionally check for leaks using your meter. The best time to do this is when your household has few people around and you can leave or not use any water for about an hour or more. First, locate your meter box, open it up and view your meter register. Walk through your house and outside areas and make sure nothing is leaking, or using any water, and turn off all hose bibs, etc. If you are confident there is no water use, return to your meter and check the reading. Record the meter odometer reading and record the location of the big red pointer. Make sure until you return to read the meter that nobody uses any water indoors or out. Return to your meter after at least an hour and perform the same readings as above. If the pointer did not move and the numbers on the odometer are the same, you do not have a leak. If the pointer or odometer has advanced, you may have a leak. The next step is to isolate where the leak might be. If you have a shutoff valve under your house, shut off the valve and perform the same test as above. If the meter continues to advance, your leak is most likely somewhere between the meter box and your shutoff valve. If the meter stops advancing, the leak is most likely somewhere in your house. View our How to Check for a Water Leak and our Leak Repair Checklist informational materials online.
How do I know how much water I am using? Your monthly bill will show how much water you used for the previous month. Your bill also includes your monthly usage during the previous 12 months for comparison. You can read your water meter periodically and record the reading and date. For information on how to read your meter see Q6 below.
How do I know if my meter is accurate? Today's meters are extremely accurate. Most meter inaccuracies are due to age and wear and yield a reading that is less than what was actually used. If you suspect your meter reading is too high, there are a few things to check. Take your last monthly bill and look at the current meter reading on the bill. Compare it to your meter read today. (See How to Read Your Water Meter informational materials online for more information). If today's meter read is less than what your bill says, please contact us to investigate. If there are two meters in your meter box, run a hose bib at your house to observe which meter is yours. You can also check your meter accuracy by simply running water until your meter pointer is at zero. Insuring that nothing else is using water in the house, accurately fill a one or two gallon container and return to your meter to see if the pointer moved the appropriate amount. Each number on the clock face of the meter dial represents one gallon. If you accurately dispensed one gallon, the pointer should have increased by approximately one gallon.
How do I monitor my water meter and water usage? TCPUD's new cellular smart meters allow customers to track water usage and set leak alert notifications through the EyeOnWater app. Learn how to set up your account here.
How do I read my water meter? Find your meter box. Carefully remove the water box lid using a large screwdriver or other tool. Take great care not to damage the meter, transmitter or associated wires. Those with the 18” diameter round meter box must carefully remove the bracket holding the transmitters and then remove the large green foam plug to view the meters. These items must be properly replaced to avoid freeze damage or improper operation. Once you have the box open, you will see the top of the meter. Lift the protective cover to expose the meter face. On the face of the meter you will see a large dial, a small red star wheel and a set of numbers similar to a car’s odometer. The large dial typically reads gallons, the small star wheel is used to detect leaks and minor usage, and the odometer reads total gallons used. Read the odometer left to right, including the fixed zero on the far right. This is your total gallons used. Record the reading and then compare it to your latest bill, or re-read your meter within the next day or two to determine your daily consumption. If you suspect you have a leak, you will notice constant or intermittent movement in the small red star wheel. Inspect all your fixtures, toilets, faucets, hose bibs and irrigation and isolate or repair as needed. If the star wheel continues to move, you may have a leak underground. View our How to Read Your Water Meter informational materials online.
I hear water running in my pipes, what do I do? You may have a potential leak somewhere on your property. View our How to Check for a Water Leak and our Leak Repair Checklist informational materials online.
I need to find my water meter box, where is it located? Your meter box is typically located in the front of your property near one of the shared property lines with your neighbor. Homes in the Highlands subdivision may have their boxes located in the easement behind the home. The meter box will typically be a rectangular concrete box with a concrete/cast iron lid marked “water”. In some areas the box may be identified by a round 18” diameter cast iron lid marked “water meter”. The District maintains records of your water box location and can be contacted for further assistance if you cannot find your box.
My bill says I have a potential leak, what do I do? First, check your water meter for any indications of a leak. See Q2 and Q4 for more information. If you determine your leak is inside your home, check all of your toilets, faucets, showers and under your home for any leaks. If you determine the leak is outdoors, check your irrigation, and remote hose bibs. If you do not find anything, you may have a leak underground. Contact a local licensed plumber to investigate. View our Leak Repair Checklist informational materials online.

Parks and Recreation

Are my rates used to provide parks and recreation services?

The State of California mandates that revenue from water service may ONLY fund water service and revenue from sewer service may ONLY fund sewer service. No revenue from either water or sewer rates can be used to fund Parks and Recreation or any other expense of the district not directly related to providing water/sewer services.

Do I need to make a reservation at Lake Forest campground?

No - sites are available on a first come, first served basis. If you're interested in other campground reservations, please see the table below.

California State Park	(800) 444-7275
US Forest Service	(800) 280-2267
National Park	(800) 365-2267
Tahoe Camping	(530) 544-5994

Is my family eligible to participate in the Parks and Recreation activities if we do not live in the TCPUD District?

Yes, anyone may participate in Parks and Recreation activities. Nevertheless non-residents typically pay more for goods and services since they don't contribute to the District's property tax fund which subsidizes recreation programs.

Where can I pick up the Tahoe Rim trail in Tahoe City?

There are two locations. The Fairway Community Center is one, which is located at 330 Fairway Drive. The trail can be picked up right across the street from the community center.

64-Acres Park is another. The park is located 100 yards past the "Y" and fanny bridge on the right side of Highway 89.

Water and Sewer Rates

How do I know my rates are fair?

Designing water rate structures is a complicated process and this question requires a somewhat lengthy explanation. Since the voter-approved Proposition 218 changes to the California Constitution, most public water systems retain outside consultants to ensure that they fairly and equitably establish the rates, meeting all the legal requirements. This ensures that all the rate-payer protections are met and that the water system does not collect more than it needs to provide the service. TCPUD just completed such a study with HDR Engineering, Inc. Here is a link to that study.

How do you use the funds I pay for water and sewer?

All revenue from water rates goes to fund operations and maintenance, debt service and capital expenditures for the water system. The same holds true for sewer. The average age of the District’s water and sewer infrastructure is over 40 years old. The District Capital Plan anticipates significant improvements and rehabilitation over the next 5 years. Rate revenue will cover only about 50% of these capital expenditures. The remainder will be paid for by a mix of grants, reserves, tax revenues, and long-term financing. The table below illustrates the Water and Sewer Capital Budgets from 2016-2020

	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	TOTAL
Water Capital Plan	$4,745,562	$5,439,742	$6,229,342	$6,076,004	$9,593,423	$32,084,073
Sewer Capital Plan	$1,874,896	$2,247,041	$1,929,819	$1,324,555	$1,493,094	$8,869,405
Total	$6,620,458	$7,686,783	$8,489,161	$7,400,559	$11,086,517	$40,953,478

Why do TCPUD water and sewer rates seem higher than other areas?

Many people express concern and have questions about water and sewer rates at Lake Tahoe as compared to other areas in California or Nevada. There are numerous factors that contribute to TCPUD’s rate structure as described below. More importantly, customers are protected by revisions to the California Constitution voters approved under Proposition 218. These provisions prevent public water and sewer agencies from collecting higher rates than what is needed to provide the service. Below are descriptions of some of the cost factors that affect TCPUD rates.

Cost Factors:

Environmental costs – the Lake Tahoe Basin is one of the most highly regulated areas in the world. These regulations increase the effort and costs associated with all repair work, new construction, reporting and permitting. It is critical to the protection of Lake Tahoe that all utilities follow these procedures, but they are often costly and time-consuming as compared to other areas in the state
Winter climate costs - TCPUD pipelines and facilities are designed and installed to withstand freezing temperatures and often extreme winter conditions. Standard operations must include snow removal and access to remote sites, 365 days a year. Most areas of the state do not have these added costs.
Mountainous terrain costs – utility systems with significant elevation changes require many more pump stations to deliver water to neighborhoods, and to export sewage from the Basin. These mechanical systems and the electrical charges to operate them can add significant cost in both water and sewer rates.
Fragmented water systems – TCPUD serves water to only 5,715 of the 7,711 homes and businesses in the District. The water system is fragmented into 5 service areas, stretched along a long narrow strip of Lake Tahoe’s shoreline. The 5 service areas are separated by 9 independent mutual, private, and other public systems in-between. Each service area has its’ own water sources, tanks and delivery systems to meet the state’s mandates for water supply and fire protection. The inability to share these resources between service areas results in considerable redundancy and higher expense.
Lack of new development revenue - most water and sewer utilities depend upon some level of revenue growth as a result of new development and utility connections. That revenue source helps to lower costs on all customers in the system. The lack of new subdivisions and development within the Tahoe Basin is seen by many as a positive for the environment and the type of community we all enjoy. As a result, a higher burden is placed on the water and sewer rates for existing customers to keep up with infrastructure rehabilitation and replacement.
High labor costs – the cost of living and housing at Lake Tahoe is higher than many other areas of the state and yet we compete with these areas to recruit and retain qualified employees that meet all the required state certifications to operate our water and sewer system.

All of these factors contribute incrementally to the higher overall cost of providing service to our customers. Your elected Board Members and TCPUD’s management team constantly evaluate every possible cost-savings and efficiency factor. We partner with other agencies and organizations to achieve the maximize benefits for the least cost. In addition we routinely run comparisons with other Districts in our region to ensure our rates are very comparable with those in the region.

Comparison Chart

Why is so much of the water rate I pay “fixed” in the base charge so I pay even when I am not there?

In designing water rate structures there are two competing objectives:

under the voter-approved Proposition 218 changes to the California Constitution, rates must be based on the actual system costs to serve that class of customers; and,
the state has prioritized achieving increased water conservation through pricing of consumption rates – the more water you use, the more you pay for each gallon (increasing tiers).

Public agencies across California balance these two factors in setting their rates, based on their own specific circumstances and type of population. They create a mixture of fixed or “base” rates along with consumption or “volumetric” rates in order to collect the revenues necessary to provide the service.

91% = FIXED COSTS: The vast majority of costs for delivering potable water anywhere in the state are fixed, meaning they only vary slightly based on actual water use. Maintaining millions of dollars of infrastructure and meeting increasing state and Federal water quality/consumer protection requirements are 91% of our total costs. This is similar to most other water agencies in the State.

9% = VARIABLE COSTS: These costs fluctuate on the amount of water used and are made up of pumping and treatment costs only.

Water System Cost Breakdown

If these percentages were put into a formula, TCPUD would bill 91% of its water service cost in the base rate and only 9% in consumption. However, in to better comply with conservation objectives and provide customers an opportunity to control the level of their bill, TCPUD uses a formula that receives only 75% of the revenue from base rates and 25% from consumption (variable) rates. This rate structure works towards the competing objectives established by the State and fully funds the cost of providing you water.

Consumer Rate Structure

WIDELY FLUCTUATING POPULATION MAKE THE BASE RATE CRITICAL: Other areas of the state with stable year-round populations can depend upon collecting more of their fixed costs through their consumption rates, as customer usage characteristics are more uniform and predictable. They know that if people are in a home, they can depend on them using some amount of water.

Within TCPUD, over 80% of our homes are not occupied year-round. However, we must be staffed and able to provide water service to our customers whenever they arrive. In addition, we must operate our water system to provide full fire protection whether they are occupying their residence or not. In areas such as Tahoe, widely fluctuating occupancies can leave a water system unable to support itself if too much of the revenue is dependent on the consumption rate. The base charges provide a method to equitably collect a portion of the fixed costs on the system, which benefit all customers regardless of consumptive use, while still maintaining a conservation-oriented rate to reflect the cost of increased consumption.

State Mandated and TCPUD Water Conservation
Are water restrictions over? The TCPUD is currently in Water Conservation Stage Two (Moderate Water Shortage). In addition to individual conservation efforts, the following restrictions are in place: Designated irrigation days - three days per week Hosing off sidewalks, driveways, and hardscapes (except for pavement resurfacing or sealing, construction services, and/or public health and safety Washing automobiles with hoses not equipped with a shut-off nozzle Using non-recirculated water in a fountain or other decorative water feature Watering in a manner that causes runoff, or within 48 hours after measurable precipitation The State of California is serious about protecting our water resources, continuing efforts towards drought resiliency, and making water conservation a regular way of life. Simple steps such as not letting water run when brushing your teeth or doing the dishes, ensuring your toilets aren’t stuck running, and fixing water leaks right away make a big difference. Be sure to take advantage of the TCPUD water efficiency rebate program for water efficient toilets, dishwashers, clothes washers and smart irrigation controls. Rebates up to $100 are available per appliance/fixture and water conservation kits are free for District customers.
How can I reduce water consumption while having a landscaped yard? Water during the early parts of the day; avoid watering when it's windy Early watering and late watering reduce water loss to evaporation. Try not to water when it's windy; wind can blow sprinklers off target and speed evaporation. Use efficient watering systems for shrubs, flower beds and lawns You can greatly reduce the amount of water used for shrubs, beds and lawns with strategic placement of soaker hoses, rain barrel water catchment systems and simple drip-irrigation systems. A watering meter can be easily added to your hose to monitor water usage to required needs. Avoid over-watering plants and shrubs, as this can actually diminish plant health and cause yellowing of the leaves. For long-term water savings, consider adding moisture-retaining lassenite to your soil for lawn and shrub beds. Plant native, drought-resistant shrubs and plants Many beautiful shrubs and plants thrive with far less watering than other species. Replace herbaceous perennial borders with native plants. Native plants will use less water and be more resistant to local plant diseases. Consider applying the principles of xeriscape for a low-maintenance, drought resistant yard. Plant slopes with plants that will retain water and help reduce runoff. Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants Adding organic material to your soil will help increase its absorption and water retention. Areas which are already planted can be 'top dressed' with compost or organic matter. Mulch will slow evaporation of moisture while discouraging weed growth. Adding 2 - 4 inches of organic material such as compost or bark mulch will increase the ability of the soil to retain moisture. Don't water hard surfaces Position your sprinklers so water lands on the lawn or garden, not on paved areas. Also, avoid watering on windy days. Water your lawn only when it needs it A good way to see if your lawn needs watering is to step on the grass. If it springs back up when you move, it doesn't need water. If it stays flat, the lawn is ready for watering.
How much water does a lawn need? A well maintained lawn typically requires an average of 1-inch of water per week. This is approximately 62 gallons per week per 100 square feet of lawn. The cooler spring and fall will require less than this and mid-summer may typically require a little more.
How much water use is normal indoors? According to the American Water Works Association, before implementing basic water conservation techniques, the average indoor use is approximately 60 to 70 gallons per day per person. That translates into approximately 3,600 to 4,200 gallons per month for two people or 7,200 to 8,400 gallons per month for a family of four. Simple conservation measures can typically result in a 15-20 percent reduction in this number. The District is asking our customers to aim for a goal of 50 gallons per day per person, as an important part of our water conservation efforts. What can I do to conserve water indoors? Check your toilets for leaks Leaking toilets make up more than 75% of the total indoor water leaks in the average home. Put a little food coloring or dye tablets in your toilet tank. If, without flushing, the color begins to appear in the bowl within 15-30 minutes, you have a leak that should be repaired immediately. Most replacement parts are inexpensive and easy to install. The District Water Conservation Kit, which is free for all District customers, has dye tablets in it. Stop by the District’s main office to pick up your free kit, or just a packet of dye tablets! Replace your toilet with a high-efficiency model For new installations, current plumbing and building codes require high efficiency toilets, which use 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf). Consider purchasing and installing a dual-flush toilet, which has two flush options; a half-flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste. Replacing your existing toilet with a new, WaterSense toilet can reduce water usage from toilets by 20% to 60%. Visit: map-testing.com for more information on low flow toilets. The District offers a rebate for replacement toilets which use 1.28 gpf or less. More information about the District’s Water Conservation Rebate Programs can be found online at: tcpud.org/utility-services/water/water-conservation. Put plastic bottles or float booster in your toilet tank To cut down on water waste, put an inch or two of sand or pebbles inside each of two plastic bottles to weigh them down. Fill the bottles with water, screw the lids on, and put them in your toilet tank, safely away from the operating mechanisms, or buy an inexpensive tank bank or float booster. This may save 10 or more gallons of water per day. Be sure enough water remains in the tank so it will flush properly. Install a hot water recirculation system and/or insulate your hot water pipes Instead of running the hot water and waiting for it to get hot, install a hot water recirculation system. Hot water will always be available immediately. It saves water as well as the cost of heating the water. It's also easy and inexpensive to insulate your water pipes with pre-slit foam pipe insulation. You'll get hot water faster plus avoid wasting water while it heats up. Install water-saving shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators Inexpensive water-saving shower heads or restrictors are easy for the homeowner to install. A low-flow showerhead can save up to 2.5 gallons every time you shower. All household faucets should also be fit with aerators. This home water conservation method is also one of the cheapest! The District Water Conservation Kit, which is free for all District customers, has a low-flow 1.5 gpm shower head, two 1.0 gpm faucet aerators, and Teflon tape in it to facilitate installation. Stop by the District’s main office to pick up your free kit! Take shorter showers Long, hot showers can use 5 to 10 gallons every unneeded minute. Limit your showers to the time it takes to soap up, wash down and rinse off. One way to cut down on water use is to turn off the shower after soaping up, then turn it back on to rinse. With a low-flow shower head, a 5-minute shower saves anywhere from 12.5 to 25 gallons of water per shower. The District’s Water Conservation Kit, which is free for all District customers, has a low-flow 1.5 gpm shower head as well as a 5-minute shower timer in it. Stop by the TCPUD main office to pick up your free kit. Take a shower instead of a bath Take a 5-minute shower instead of a bath. A bathtub can use up to 70 gallons of water, plus all of the energy to heat that additional water. Turn off the water after you wet your toothbrush There is no need to keep the water running while brushing your teeth. Just wet your brush and fill a glass for mouth rinsing. Or turn the water on to rinse out your mouth and your toothbrush after your teeth are clean. Rinse your razor in the sink Fill the sink with a few inches of warm water, then turn off the faucet. This will rinse your razor just as well as running water, with far less waste of water. Save water when washing hands Turn the water off while you lather your hands. Check faucets and pipes for leaks A small drip from a worn faucet washer can waste up to 20 gallons of water or more per day. Larger leaks can waste hundreds of gallons. Repair your leaks! Your monthly bill from the District will indicate whether or not a leak may be present at your property. View our How to Check for a Water Leak and our Leak Repair Checklist informational materials online. Use your dishwasher and clothes washer for only full loads Automatic dishwashers and clothes washers should be fully loaded for optimum water conservation. Most makers of dishwashing soap recommend not pre-rinsing dishes, which is a big water savings. With clothes washers, avoid the permanent press cycle, which uses an added 5 gallons for the extra rinse. For partial loads, adjust water levels to match the size of the load. Replace old clothes washers with an Energy Star certified clothes washer. New Energy Star rated washers use approximately 40% less water and 25% less energy per load. New Energy Star certified rated dishwashers can save up to 10 gallons of water per cycle. If you're in the market for a new clothes washer, consider buying a water-saving frontload clothes washer with a low water factor. The TCPUD offers rebates for replacement Energy Star Clothes Washers and Dishwashers. Don't use the toilet as an ashtray or wastebasket Every time you flush a cigarette butt, facial tissue or other small bit of trash, gallons of water is wasted. View our What Not to Put Down Your Toilet or Drains FAQs online, for more information. Minimize use of kitchen sink garbage disposal units Garbage disposals require lots of water to operate properly, and also add considerably to the volume of solids into a sewer system which can lead to maintenance problems. Start a compost pile or scrape plates into the garbage as alternate methods of disposing food waste. View our What Not to Put Down Your Toilet or Drains FAQs online, for more information. Dry-wipe pots, pans, and dishes Use a paper towel or squeegee to remove excess food, grease and oil from your pots, pans and dishes, and dispose of it in the garbage, rather than down the drain. Many items can be put directly into the dishwasher after dry-wiping, avoiding wasteful pre-rinse. Do this before washing your dishes or putting them in the dishwasher to save water. View our What Not to Put Down Your Toilet or Drains FAQs online, for more information. When washing dishes by hand, don't leave the water running for rinsing If you have a double-basin sink, fill one basin with soapy water and one basin with rinse water. If you have a single-basin sink, gather washed dishes in a dish rack and rinse them with a spray device or a panful of hot water. If using a dishwasher, there is usually no need to pre-rinse the dishes. Keep a bottle of drinking water in the fridge Running tap water to cool it off for drinking water is wasteful. Bonus; by filling a water pitcher and letting it sit out, any chlorine in the water will off-gas and you will have better tasting water! Defrost food in the refrigerator Rather than using running water to thaw food, defrost it in the refrigerator. Water houseplants with left-over water or ice cubes Use any left-over water from your water bottle, or ice cubes to water plants with.
How much water use is normal outdoors? It is extremely difficult to determine how much outdoor water use is normal. It varies greatly depending on amount of turf, types of plants, type of irrigation system, soil type and weather. There are many resources on the internet to assist you with proper landscape maintenance. You may also contact any qualified landscape contractor in the area for further assistance.
How often should I water my lawn or landscaping? It is recommended to only irrigate three times per week. This will allow water to saturate deeper and promote deeper root depths. Deeper root depths provide better protection from heat stress, and disease, and greatly improve the appearance of a plants and lawn.
How should I take care of my established lawn? The District strongly recommends native plants instead of lawns and turf. However, if you have an existing, established lawn and want to keep it, the following tips are recommended to save water and to make your lawn healthier: Aerate annually to relieve soil compaction and allow water and oxygen to penetrate into the root zone as well as allowing roots to penetrate deeper as well. Consider adding a light top-dressing of mulch after you aerate. Thoroughly rake or dethatch your lawn every spring to remove dead grass. Let the grass grow to a height of 3 inches to promote water retention in the soil, as well as to increase the turf density. Water between 2am and 5am during the summer months, for saturation of the root zone and less evaporation. Don't over irrigate just to green up isolated dry spots. If the majority of your lawn is getting enough water, consider hand watering dry spots using a hose nozzle with an automatic shutoff versus increasing irrigation times for the whole lawn. Do not overwater your lawn. This leads to surface rooting, which causes the lawn to dry out more quickly. Try watering in 2-6 minute cycles to promote thicker and deeper roots for healthier plants. Water in 6 minute cycles, twice a week or in 4 minute cycles, three times a week to use less water and make your lawn healthier. Do not irrigate turf every day. Don’t try to make your lawn weed-free, unless the “weeds” are an invasive species. Harvest weeds, if necessary. To reduce water loss from your sprinkler irrigation system, operate it manually, once per week to check for leaks in the system, correct sprinkler orientation, make sure all sprinklers pop up, and/or replace any emitters that have blown off. Replace the screw-top emitters on your sprinkler heads to use less water. These emitters cost very little (typically less than $0.25), but can save a lot of water. Add a smart controller to your irrigation system, with irrigation efficiency controls, such as a rain sensor, a soil moisture sensor and a temperature sensing gauge. The District offers rebates for these irrigation efficiency controls. More information about the District’s Water Conservation Rebate Programs can be found online. These controllers can be purchased through Truckee suppliers, such as Mountain Hardware, Western Nevada Supply, Ferguson, and Sierra Mountain Pipe and Supply. They can also be purchased at big box stores, such as Home Depot and Lowes. Check with your favorite local nursery or landscaper; they may also have these controllers available.
I like to water my yard to keep the threat of fire down, is that a good idea? Simply watering your yard is not the answer to protecting your home from a wildfire. To reduce the fire risk around your home, use basic defensible space techniques. For more information on Defensible Space, please contact your local fire protection district (North Tahoe Fire Protection District or Meeks Bay Fire Protection District) or visit the following website: http://www.livingwithfire.info/tahoe/
What can I do to save water outdoors? Don't run the hose while washing your car. Clean your car using a pail of soapy water and a sponge. Use an automatic shutoff spray nozzle when rinsing for more efficient use of water. The District’s Water Conservation Kit, which is free for all District customers, has an automatic shutoff spray nozzle in it. Stop by the District’s main office to pick up your free kit! Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks. Using a broom instead of a hose can save 8 to 18 gallons per minute of water. Check for leaks in pipes, hoses, faucets and couplings. Leaks outside the house may not seem as bad since they're not as visible. But they can be just as wasteful as leaks indoors. Check frequently to keep them drip-free. Use hose washers at spigots and hose connections to eliminate leaks. View our How to Check for a Water Leak and our Leak Repair Checklist informational materials online.
Who can help me create a landscaped yard with low water usage? Contact your local nurseries for more information on the types of landscapes and plants that use less water. There are many qualified local landscape contractors who can assist you with design and installation of water friendly landscape designs. You can also contact the Tahoe Resource Conservation District for a free site-specific visit and assistance in creating a landscape with low water usage.
Why are my water rates so high? For answers to this question and others regarding the District’s rates, please view our Water and Sewer Rates FAQs.
Won’t watering at night create disease in cold-weather turf? No. Fungus or turf diseases will occur when conditions are ideal, regardless of when you water. Using the smallest amount of water needed for your turf will prevent overwatering and keep your turf healthier.

Sewer
Are garbage disposals allowed? Commercial garbage disposals that discharge into the public sewer system are not allowed. Screens should be installed in all sinks receiving food waste, and all collected material shall be placed into the garbage.
Can I use chemical or biological agents to reduce grease? No; the use of chemical and/or biological agents to dissolve FOG is not allowed. These additives simply move the grease into the sewer system; they don’t actually eliminate it. If you have been using these materials, you must discontinue their use. Contact the District to learn about alternative grease control measures.
How can an FSE limit FOG discharge into the sewer system? By using Kitchen Best Management Practices, also known as “Kitchen BMPs,” these are practices, procedures and maintenance activities performed by Food Service Establishments to reduce FOG in their wastewater discharge. They include: Collecting all cooking grease and liquid oil from pots, pans and fryers in covered grease and oil containers for recycling Scraping or dry-wiping excess food and FOG from dishes, pots, pans and fryers This method uses less water, which conserves a precious resource and saves you money on your water bill! Installing drain screens on all kitchen drains Having spill kits readily available Properly maintaining and cleaning exhaust filters, grease traps and interceptors An on-going employee training program The District has a FOG BMP Chart that we can provide to you. Additionally, the District has bilingual laminated posters for display in the cooking area of your FSE, and dish squeegees to wipe plates and cooking dishes before they are washed. Please contact us for these FREE materials.
How do I dispose of the FOG? Grease traps can be cleaned by the FSE, and you may either contract with a grease hauler to remove the waste or, once properly bagged and mixed with kitty litter, the sanitary landfill may accept it. Grease interceptors must be pumped by a pumping service that you contract with. The District has a list of companies that perform pumping services in this area. This list is shown on the following page.
How do I keep FOG from going down the drain? There are some simple ways to deal with FOG used or generated during cooking. Drain excess grease and oil from cooking into a used or empty glass jar or metal can. If not full, save the can in the refrigerator or freezer for the next time, or simply throw the container into the garbage. For pots, pans and dishes, dry wipe them with a paper towel prior to rinsing, washing, or placing in the dishwasher. The paper towel can then be thrown into the garbage. These procedures will greatly reduce the amount of FOG that you discharge into the sewer system. Additionally, you can stop by the District’s Administrative Office on Fairway Drive to pick up your FREE reusable cooking grease and oil disposal container, complete with directions and heat-resistant liners to use instead of a glass jar or metal can.
How does FOG from FSEs cause sewer spills? When wastewater from FSEs contains grease, the hot water and soap used in washing dishes emulsifies (breaks up) the grease, allowing it to flow freely through the sewer. As the wastewater cools, the grease congeals (hardens) causing blockages, which can lead to backups and overflows of sewage. Regardless of whether the blockage occurs within the FSE’s plumbing, the FSE’s sewer line, or the District’s sewer main, a costly and environmentally damaging sewer spill or backup may occur within your building or outdoors. Grease removal devices like traps and interceptors are designed to prevent FOG-related overflows.
How does FOG from residences cause sewer spills? When wastewater from residential kitchens contains grease, the hot water and soap used in washing dishes emulsifies (breaks up) the grease, allowing it to flow freely through the sewer. As the wastewater cools, the grease congeals (hardens) causing blockages, which can lead to backups and overflows of sewage. Regardless of whether the blockage occurs within your residential plumbing, your sewer line, or the District’s sewer main, a costly and environmentally damaging sewer spill or backup may occur within your home or outdoors.
How much is a FSE License Fee and what is the money used for? The FSE license fee for 2015 is $25.58 per month ($76.74 per quarter) and will appear on your regular billing statement. This fee is required per District Sewer Ordinance, Section 8 for all FSEs, as FSEs can contribute FOG to the District’s sewer system. FOG in the sewer system requires additional District time and resources to keep sewer lines and sewer lift stations operating correctly, in order to prevent sanitary sewer overflows from occurring. Additionally, the fees collected help to cover District costs for providing staff to assist you with Kitchen Best Management Practices, assist you with sizing and installing new grease reduction devices, perform discharge sampling, perform routine televised inspections of the building sewer laterals, and perform monthly grease interceptor inspections.
How often should I clean my grease trap or interceptor? Our staff will help you determine the optimum frequency for grease trap and interceptor service based upon your specific facility. As a reference, grease traps are often cleaned once a week and grease interceptors pumped out once per month. The cleaning frequency will vary due to the type of cuisine, number of meals served and size of your FOG control device. The equipment manufacturer may also have recommendations on the frequency of cleaning and maintenance required.
Is my existing grease trap or interceptor adequate? The size of your FOG control device depends upon the number of fixtures connected to it and the maintenance schedule. District staff will help you to determine if your existing trap(s) or interceptor is properly sized. If properly sized and frequently cleaned, you should be able to meet the discharge limit of 400 mg/L of FOG. If your discharge exceeds this limit, you may be required to install alternative or additional FOG control devices.
What are Kitchen Best Management Practices? Also known as “Kitchen BMPs,” these are practices, procedures and maintenance activities performed by commercial establishments and residential customers to reduce FOG in the wastewater discharge. They include: Collecting all cooking grease and liquid oil from pots, pans and fryers in covered grease and oil containers for recycling or disposal Get your FREE reusable cooking grease and oil disposal container at the District’s Administrative Office on Fairway Drive Scraping or dry-wiping excess food and FOG from dishes, pots, pans and fryers into the garbage Installing drain screens on all kitchen sink drains
What is FOG? FOG is the acronym used to collectively refer to Fats, Oils and Grease. FOG can be defined as, “Any substance such as a vegetable or animal product that is used in, or is a byproduct of, the cooking or food preparation process, and that turns or may turn viscous or solidifies with a change in temperature or other conditions".
What is the difference between a grease trap and an interceptor? An interceptor is a large concrete box partitioned off to remove FOG and food waste by trapping particles that float to the top and particles that settle to the bottom. A grease trap is a smaller unit, often stainless steel, which works by the same principles. Typically, interceptors are installed in the ground outside of an FSE, and grease traps are installed indoors, often under a sink or counter. Grease traps, if approved through a District variance, are usually reserved for small establishments with low FOG output. Because grease traps are smaller, they are less efficient and require more frequent servicing.
What types of businesses are considered to be FSEs? Any commercial business that prepares food or washes any equipment, dishes, etc. that comes in contact with food is considered to be a Food Service Establishment (FSE). Some examples of FSEs include: restaurants, fast food establishments, convenience stores with food preparation, butcher shops, hotels, motels, bed & breakfast establishments, coffee shops, ice cream shops, commercial kitchens, delis, catering facilities, etc.
What types of waste or household items should or should not be disposed of in the sewer system? Only bodily wastes, and single-ply toilet paper should go into the toilet and then into the sewer system. Soap residue from dishwashers, kitchen and bathroom sinks, showers, bathtubs and washing machines can also go into the sewer system. Things that should NEVER be put into the sewer system include: “Flushable” Wipes – these are not actually flushable Dryer sheets Paper Towels Cooking oils, cooking fat, cooking grease Food and food waste, including: Egg shells Coffee Grounds Lemon Peels Vegetable Trimmings Meat Scraps Leftovers Cigarettes Cotton swabs and cotton balls Diapers Feminine hygiene products of any sort (including sanitary napkins and tampons) Hair, human or pet Vitamins or medicines Expired or unused prescription drugs can be disposed of at the Placer County Sheriff’s Office, 2501 N. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA, (530) 581-6301 http://www.ttfwdd.com/rx-drug-abuse-prevention.php “Disposable” toilet wipes and bowl brush heads Condoms Dental floss Insects Kitty litter Dirt, rocks, pebbles, or sand Oils Flammable or toxic liquids/substances Acidic substances or liquids Paint Clothing materials Any other solid which may impede flow in the sewer lines. Did you know? Many items are falsely advertised as “flushable”. Remember, toilets are made for toilet paper and human waste ONLY. Dental floss is not biodegradable and can quickly lead to clogs as it can easily snag on rough pipes. Dryer sheets are commonly flushed down the toilet, but they belong in the trash. Not only are dryer sheets full of toxic chemicals, but they can quickly lead to clogs. Better to not use them, but if you do use them, don’t flush them! If you flush a cigarette down a toilet, it never breaks down. Two-thirds of all sewer backups occur in the homeowner’s (your) sewer line rather than the District’s sewer mains. Sewer backups are frequently caused by things that were flushed down the homeowner’s (your) toilets or ground up in the garbage disposal. By watching what you put down the toilet, you’ll save money, time and help the environment! Flushing the wrong thing down the toilet damages your household plumbing, the environment and the sewer treatment system.
When is a sample port required? All FSEs must have a sample port located just outside of their structure. New or remodeled FSEs must install the sample port as a part of the permit process. Discharge collected from sample ports will be analyzed to determine if existing FOG control measures are keeping kitchen wastewater below the limit of 400 mg/L of FOG, as set by District Sewer Ordinance 255, Section 8.
When is FOG control equipment required? FOG control is required on all facilities that may introduce FOG into the sewer system. If FOG control is warranted, based on the Uniform Plumbing Code and the California Plumbing Code, District Sewer Ordinance 255, Section 8 requires that a grease trap or interceptor be installed under the following conditions: When a FSE sells On all new or remodeled FSEs Following a wastewater backup or discharge due to FOG When samples of wastewater discharge exceed 400 mg/L of FOG After receiving written notice from the District
Why do I need a FSE license? The license, issued annually, will identify the contact person for the FSE, and by their signature on the license, the District can ensure that they are informed of these FOG control requirements. Annual renewal will ensure that both the property owner and FSE are aware of any change in District regulations. The license application will provide information to District staff that will help us ensure that your FOG control measures are adequate and current.
Why is FOG control necessary? Why should FOG not be put into the sewer system? Fats, Oils, and Grease can gather in the sewer system causing blockage of sewer flows, resulting in sanitary sewer overflows. The California State Water Resources Control Board requires sewer utilities to develop and enforce a FOG control program to help prevent these types of sewer spills. District Utility Department staff members’ time is frequently spent using costly hydraulic equipment to remove built-up grease from the sewer system.

Backflow Prevention/Cross-Connection Control
Are there different types of backflow prevention assemblies? Yes, there are several different types of backflow prevention assemblies, which are listed below: Air Gap (AG) Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly (RP) Double Check Valve Backflow Prevention Assembly (DC) Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) Spill-Proof Pressure Vacuum Breaker (SVB) The Tahoe City Public Utility District (District) recognizes all of these as acceptable forms of crossconnection control. However, each assembly must be approved prior to installation to ensure that the assembly is on the approved list and that the type of assembly used shall be based on the existing or potential degree of hazard.
Can my backflow prevention assembly be installed in an underground box or vault? Backflow prevention assemblies are designed to be installed above-ground. However, because of our severe winters, the District may approve the installation of a DC within an underground box, on a case-bycase basis. RPs and vacuum breakers may never be installed in a box or vault, as this installation would subject the assembly to potentially becoming submerged in the underground box or vault, rendering it ineffective. (RPs and vacuum breakers are open to the atmosphere, which, if submerged, would create another cross-connection).
Can my backflow prevention assembly freeze? Yes! Backflow prevention assemblies, particularly irrigation assemblies, will freeze if left exposed. They must be kept from freezing by providing insulation and by providing a heat source, if needed. Irrigation assemblies are recommended to be installed with unions on either side, which will allow them to be removed during the winter months. Other assemblies can often be installed within the building in a heated area. District staff will help determine what location is appropriate for the assembly. We will endeavor to allow you to install the assembly within the building to prevent it from freezing
Do I need to install a backflow prevention assembly on my residential irrigation system? Yes, even if it is a drip irrigation system. Weed killers, fertilizers and animal waste may enter the water supply through an irrigation system that is not properly protected with a backflow prevention assembly, contaminating the water. District staff will help you determine which assembly is the right one for your particular needs.
Does a fire sprinkler system need a backflow prevention assembly? Yes. In our cold climate, fire sprinkler systems are typically charged with a glycol solution. Additionally, systems constructed out of black iron pipe typically contain a rust inhibitor. Even systems that are charged only with water may be hazardous to the water supply. Bacterial growth can occur in the stagnant water, which sits undisturbed in the pipes for many years. A loss of system pressure can draw this polluted or contaminated water into your own system and potentially into the District’s water supply. Systems that are charged only with air, but include a Fire Department Connection (FDC) also pose a hazard to the water supply; if the FDC is connected to a fire truck during a fire situation, the potential exists for water that may contain other substances to backflow into the drinking water supply.
Does my backflow prevention assembly have to be installed immediately behind my meter? Not for most hazards. However, when there is an auxiliary water supply, medical facility, lethal hazard, failure to allow the District to perform a cross-connection inspection, or other circumstance, as determined by the District, backflow prevention assemblies must be installed immediately behind the meter, on private property. RP backflow prevention assemblies installed at the meter must be installed in an above-ground, continually heated enclosure. DC backflow prevention assemblies installed at the meter may be installed in an underground box or vault, but must be approved on a case-by-case basis. In general, the District has taken the approach of requiring internal protection with regards to the installation of backflow prevention assemblies, in order to protect the drinking water within the property as well as the public water system. This approach has been determined to be the best method for the protection of public health and safety. Furthermore, requiring internal protection, at the point of potential cross-connection, typically allows our customers to install smaller backflow prevention assemblies within their structure, and generally eliminates the need to house these assemblies in an above-ground, continually heated enclosure.
How can I prevent contamination of my own home and the public water system? You can determine if your property has any potential cross connections by completing a CrossConnection Survey on our website at http://www.tcpud.org/download/general/15ccs.pdf or by calling the Compliance Services Division to schedule a Cross-Connection Control inspection. Please note that you are also required to install an approved backflow prevention assembly on any identified cross-connections per District requirements and to test this assembly annually.
How do I get a copy of the District’s test form? This form is available on the District’s website: TCPUD Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report (January 2015). Alternatively, you can call the District and request that a copy be emailed, faxed or mailed to you, or stop by the office to pick one up.
How do I know when my backflow prevention assembly needs to be tested? The District maintains a database containing all of the permitted backflow prevention assemblies within our water system. We will notify you when your assembly is due to be tested, and we will provide you with a test form accompanied by a list of certified Backflow Prevention Assembly General Testers. It is the customer's responsibility to schedule the test with the tester. These notifications are typically sent out in March of every year, with a typical test due date of the end of May. Mark your calendars to have your assembly tested every spring!
How do I know which assembly I need? The District can tell you which type of assembly is appropriate for your particular need. You may then choose the specific model from a list of approved assemblies available at the District office, or you can work with a Backflow Prevention Assembly General Tester or Cross-Connection Control Specialist to select a specific assembly.
Is the Tahoe City Public Utility District required to comply with these same regulations? Yes. The District owns and maintains 42 backflow prevention assemblies throughout our service area. We test all irrigation assemblies prior to first use each season, and test the remaining assemblies by the same due date as our customers.
My backflow prevention assembly is installed. Now what? The installation of the assembly must be inspected and approved by the District. Call the Compliance Services Division to schedule an inspection. After the installation has been inspected and approved, the assembly must be tested. Per California State Law, all backflow prevention assemblies must be tested upon installation. A District-approved, certified Backflow Prevention Assembly General Tester must test the assembly to ensure that it is operating correctly and will complete the District’s “Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report”, available on our website or at our office. The tester will then mail, fax, or email the completed form back to the District.
What causes backflow? There are two conditions that can cause backflow: Backsiphonage – occurs due to a loss of pressure in the public water system providing your water. This can be caused by a rapid withdrawal of a high volume of water from the system due to a system shutdown, a break in the supply mains, or active fire protection. This reduction of pressure creates a vacuum in the piping which draws water back into your home from your irrigation lines, hot tub, or any plumbing fixture with a submerged inlet. These sources of water can contaminate your home’s drinking water and even enter the public system contaminating others’ potable water. Backpressure – is created when the source of pressure, such as a household pump, creates pressure greater than that supplied through the public water system. A pump from a landscape pond, pool, hot tub, hydronic heating system, fire sprinkler system or other system containing non-potable water, pumps that water into the potable water supply affecting your home, and even the entire public drinking water system.
What happens if I don't install a required backflow prevention assembly? Failure to install the required type of assembly could result in termination of water service as described in the District’s Water Ordinance 263. The District will work with you to ensure that you are able to install the assembly, by selecting a location that would allow for the smallest size and fewest amount of assemblies, if more than one assembly is required. The District will also work with you to select a due date that is reasonable given your budget and schedule, while still addressing this matter in a timely fashion.
What is "backflow"? Water normally flows in one direction, from the public water system through your water service, to your plumbing fixtures. However, under certain conditions water can flow in the reverse direction – creating “backflow”. Backflow can contaminate the water supply and cause serious health issues. Backflow is the reverse flow of non-potable water or other substances through a cross-connection hazard into the piping of the consumer's potable water system or the public water system.
What is a "cross-connection"? A cross-connection is an actual or potential connection between a public water system or consumer's potable (drinking) water system and any source or system containing non-potable water or other substances. (Non-potable water is water that is unfit or unsafe to drink.)
What is a backflow prevention assembly? A backflow prevention assembly is a mechanical device that prevents water from "backflowing" into a potable water system (either the consumer’s internal system, the public water system, or both).
What is a stop and waste drain/valve? Why is it a potential cross-connection? A stop and waste drain and a stop and waste valve are the same thing. A stop and waste valve is used to drain the piping above or beyond it, when it is in a closed position. These are typically used on irrigation lines and for domestic water service lines. These can be a potential cross-connection if the stop and waste valve is installed below the ground surface; the water (including any contaminants, such as chemicals, dirt, bacteria, fertilizer, etc.) can pool up and then enter your internal plumbing and potentially the drinking water system through the valve when it is opened back up. The California Plumbing Code and the District requires that “Combination stop-and-waste valves…shall not be installed underground.”
What is a yard hydrant or frost-free hose bibb and why is it a potential cross-connection? Are there “approved” yard hydrants? A yard hydrant and a frost-free/freeze proof hose bibb are the same thing. A yard hydrant is an outdoor water supply outlet that has a valve and outlet above ground and a drain opening below the frost level. When the valve is opened, water flows. When the valve is closed, the water supply to the hydrant is shut off below the frost level and a drain hole is opened that allows the water in the yard hydrant pipe to drain into a gravel bed. This drains the yard hydrant and its riser so that the hydrant will not freeze. A yard hydrant can be a potential cross-connection through the drain hole; when a backsiphonage condition occurs, contaminants (such as chemicals, dirt, bacteria, fertilizer, etc.) can potentially enter your internal plumbing and the public drinking water system through the drain hole. The District requires that yard hydrants have an RP assembly installed upstream of them, or that they are replaced with a sanitary yard hydrant. A sanitary yard hydrant still has a drain hole, but the water drains into a sealed tank. When the hydrant is turned on again, the water in the tank is expelled; there is no crosscontamination with the yard hydrant and the soil.
What is an auxiliary water supply and why is it a potential cross-connection? An auxiliary water supply is a water source on your property in addition to the public drinking water service. An auxiliary water supply can be any one of the following: well, lake intake, stream/river intake, spring, rainwater cistern, grey water, etc. When there is an auxiliary water supply on a property, it can be a potential cross-connection if that auxiliary supply accidentally gets connected to the public drinking water supply. For example, if your property has a lake intake or a private well that feeds your irrigation system, but your irrigation system is also fed from the public water system, the water from the auxiliary supply could get into the public drinking water system. For properties with an auxiliary water supply, the District requires an approved backflow prevention assembly to be installed at the meter.
What kinds of hazards do appropriate backflow prevention assemblies protect from? Backflow prevention assemblies protect against two types of hazards: pollutants and contaminants. A Pollutant is any substance which affects the aesthetic quality of the water (taste, color or odor), but does not pose a health hazard. A Contaminant may cause illness or death when ingested, and is considered to be a health hazard. Some common examples of hazards or systems requiring backflow prevention assemblies are: Fire Sprinkler Systems Hydronic Heating Systems Irrigation Systems Boilers/Water Heat Exchangers Auxiliary Water Supplies (e.g., lake intakes, wells)
Who can install and test the assembly? A plumber, fire sprinkler contractor, landscaper, Backflow Prevention Assembly General Tester, or anyone with plumbing expertise can install an assembly. However, only Backflow Prevention Assembly General Testers holding current certification by the California-Nevada Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) can test, maintain and repair backflow prevention assemblies. The tester must provide the District with evidence of AWWA certification and proof that the test equipment he or she will use is currently calibrated. Click here for the TCPUD certified backflow tester list: http://www.tcpud.org/download/general/bft15.pdf
Why do I have to test my backflow prevention assembly every year? Title 17 of California state law and District Water Ordinance 263 requires annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies to ensure that they are functioning properly. With the exception of the air gap, backflow prevention assemblies are mechanical units with internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are subject to fouling, wear, or fatigue. The annual test ensures a properly functioning assembly, and certifies that the assembly has not been removed or had a by-pass line installed around it. Air gaps are “tested” by conducting a visual inspection.
Why do I need to install a backflow prevention assembly? In order to protect your family’s health and the public drinking water system, the State of California requires all water suppliers to maintain ongoing backflow prevention and cross-connection control programs so that your water is protected from hazards that originate on private property. The California Department of Public Health requires the District to eliminate cross-connections by maintaining these programs. The backflow prevention and cross-connection control program mandates the installation of backflow prevention assemblies by the consumer where the District determines they are needed, in accordance with Title 17 of California state law and District Water Ordinance 263.