Florida is the only state in the nation with a comprehensive rain-sensor statute, she notes. And that makes sense given the state?EUR??,,????'???s unpredictable seasonal rainfall.

Irrigation systems consist of two basic components, a controller and a rain sensor. A controller is a timing device that controls the frequency and length of time that watering occurs. A rain sensor prevents unnecessary irrigation during a rainfall and soon after a rainfall. It interrupts the cycle of an automatic irrigation system controller when a specific amount of rain has fallen. They are small devices wired to the irrigation system controller and mounted in an open area where they catch rain.

Florida is the only state in the nation with an overall rain- sensor statute. Before 1991, a controller was the only component needed for an automatic sprinkler system.

Since then, Florida Statute 373.662 states that “Any person who purchases and installs an automatic lawn sprinkler system after May 1, 1991, shall install, and must maintain and operate, a rain sensor device or switch that will override the irrigation cycle of the sprinkler system when adequate rainfall has occurred.” If your system was installed after 1991, you need to have an operating rain sensor. It’s the law.