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Texas Sprinkler System Laws, Regulations & Requirements

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State & City Irrigation System Regulations, Permits & Requirements.

The Ultimate Guide to Sprinkler System Installation with State & City Regulations, Permits & Requirements.

If you're considering installing a sprinkler system for your lawn or garden, there are a few things you need to know before you get started. From understanding state and city regulations to obtaining the necessary permits, this ultimate guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully install a sprinkler system.

The State of Texas

TITLE 30        ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

PART 1        TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

CHAPTER 30        OCCUPATIONAL LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS

SUBCHAPTER D    

  LANDSCAPE IRRIGATORS, IRRIGATION TECHNICIANS AND IRRIGATION INSPECTORS

RULE §30.111        Purpose and Applicability

(a) The purpose of this subchapter is to establish qualifications for issuing and renewing licenses to individuals who:

  (1) sell, design, install, maintain, alter, repair, or service an irrigation system;

  (2) provide consulting services relating to an irrigation system;

  (3) connect an irrigation system to any water supply; or

  (4) inspect irrigation systems and perform other enforcement duties as an employee or as a contractor.

(b) An individual who performs any of the tasks listed in subsection (a) of this section must meet the qualifications of this subchapter and be licensed according to Subchapter A of this chapter (relating to Administration of Occupational Licenses and Registrations), unless they are exempt under §30.129 of this title (relating to Exemptions); and must comply with the requirements in Chapter 344 of this title (relating to Landscape Irrigation).

Source Note: The provisions of this §30.111 adopted to be effective December 17, 2001, 26 TexReg 10330; amended to be effective September 27, 2007, 32 TexReg 6523; amended to be effective June 26, 2008, 33 TexReg 4886

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

 

  (1) Irrigation technician--A person who works under the supervision of a licensed irrigator to install, maintain, alter, repair, service, or supervise installation of an irrigation system, including the connection of such system in or to a private or public, raw or potable water supply system or any water supply.

  (2) Irrigator--A person who sells, designs, offers consultations, installs, maintains, alters, repairs, services, or supervises the installation of an irrigation system, including the connection of such system to a private or public, raw or potable water supply system or any water supply.

Source Note: The provisions of this §30.117 adopted to be effective December 17, 2001, 26 TexReg 10330; amended to be effective September 29, 2016, 41 TexReg 7489

Research State and City Regulations.
Before you begin installing your sprinkler system, it's important to research the regulations in your state and city. Make sure your contractor is a Licensed Irrigator and is Registered with the City of San Antonio as an approved contractor in good standing. Each state and city may have different requirements for sprinkler system installation, such as the type of backflow prevention device required or the distance between sprinkler heads. You can typically find this information on your state or city's government website or by contacting your local water department. It's important to follow these regulations to ensure your sprinkler system is installed safely 
and legally.

The City of San Antonio

San Antonio Water Systems

Bexar County

 


Obtain Necessary Permits.
Once you have researched the regulations in your state and city, you may need to obtain permits before you can begin installing your sprinkler system. The requirements for permits may vary depending on your location and the scope of your project. Some cities may require a permit for any type of sprinkler system installation, while others may only require a permit for larger projects. It's important to check with your local government to determine if you need a permit and what the process is for obtaining one. Failure to obtain necessary permits can result in fines or other penalties.


Choose the Right Sprinkler System.
Before you can install a sprinkler system, you need to choose the right one for your needs. There are many different types of sprinkler systems available, including rotary, spray, and drip systems. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to do your research and choose the one that will work best for your lawn and garden. Consider factors such as the size and shape of your lawn, the type of soil you have, and the plants you want to water. You may also want to consult with a
professional landscape irrigation specialist to help you make the right choice.


Plan Your System Layout.
Once you have chosen the right sprinkler system for your needs, it's time to plan the layout of your system. This involves mapping out where each sprinkler head will be placed and determining the best locations for the control valves and water source. It's important to consider factors such as the slope of your lawn, the location of any obstacles such as trees or buildings, and the water pressure and flow rate of your water source. You may want to use a professional irrigation designer or contractor to help you with this step to ensure that your system is designed for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.

Useful Links:

The City of San Antonio
Irrigation Standards were implemented on January 7, 2002, and amended
April 4, 2002, and is enforced by the Development Services Department. 
Recently Amended again November 22, 2022

 Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Occupational Licensing
Find requirements for training providers; for a renewal, a new, or replacement license or registration. Register to take an exam, and find training and continuing education courses.

San Antonio Water Systems
Stage 2 Rules in Effect
Once-a-week watering on designated day from 7-11 a.m. and 7-11 p.m.

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