Dallas Steps up Sensor Requirements

The City of Dallas has increased city water ordinance requirements for automatic irrigation systems. It is now mandatory that all systems, including existing systems, have both rain and freeze sensors installed prior to Jan. 1. Previously, any system installed in 2002 or later was required to have the devices. In making this ruling,

Dallas Water Utilities cited both increased water savings and reduced repairs due to freezing. The utility recommends homeowners contact an irrigation professional to determine if their system is in compliance and, if not, to make the necessary upgrades. As an incentive, Dallas will offer rebates to help offset a portion of the cost of retrofitting the system to bring it into compliance. A homeowner will receive a water bill credit of up to $50 if the unit is installed by a professional. If a homeowner elects to make the installation themselves, the city will provide a free rain and freeze sensor.

--From The Irrigation Association