PUBLIC NOTICE- Backflow prevention policy change

PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY OF CARLTON BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE POLICY

DISCONTINUANCE OF CITY PERFORMED TESTING

Backflow prevention devices protect the City of Carlton’s public water supply from other liquids, gases, or substances being drawn back up into the system. These devices are any place where potable water connects with non-potable water or substances. All owners of backflow prevention devices must comply with ORS §448.278 and §448.279 and OARs Chapter 333, Division 61 when installing and testing devices. City Ordinance No. 609 states that owners of the devices shall be responsible for testing costs.

Previously, the City performed the annual device tests and charged the cost of this service to the property owner. The city will no longer be providing the backflow testing service to customers. It is the property owner's responsibility to ensure that the backflow is tested, operational and that a test result is submitted to the city at a minimum once a year.

Per City code 13.16.220, the consequences of not completing and reporting a backflow report are:

1. A person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall:

A. Upon the first conviction thereof, be punishable by a fine not to exceed the sum of one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00);

B. Upon the second conviction thereof, be punishable by a fine not to exceed the sum of three hundred dollars ($300.00);

C. Upon the third or further conviction thereof, be punishable by a fine not to exceed the sum of three hundred dollars ($300.00) or by imprisonment for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days, or both.

        2.    Each day's violation of any provision of this chapter shall constitute a separate offense, punishable as set forth in this section.

 13.16.230 - Termination of service.

Failure on the part of a customer to comply with any portion of this chapter is sufficient cause for the immediate discontinuance of public water service to the premises. (OAR Chapter 333-61-0070, (1)(b))

More information about the State of Oregon’s statutes and rules on backflow prevention devices can be found at oregonlaws.org and www.oregon.gov/oha. City Ordinances are available for public viewing at City Hall during regular business hours and on the city’s website (www.ci.carlton.or.us).

For additional comments, concerns, or questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with City Hall at (503) 852-7575.  Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Please see below for Notice.