April 09, 2022
The Town of Schererville Water Department wants to remind residents that all irrigation systems must be equipped with an approved backflow prevention assembly. Inspection and testing is required annually by an Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) certified backflow prevention device inspector in accordance with state law (327 IAC 8-10) and local Ordinance #1241.
Schererville Water Department policy requires that the owner of an irrigation system have their system tested each year and submit the results to the Town no later than June 30 of each year. The testing company is responsible to send test results to us. If the test fails, the tester must notify the owner/user of the assembly and the Town of Schererville Water Department within one (1) business day. That assembly must be repaired, replaced, isolated or disconnected from the Town’s water supply system within ten (10) business days or water service shall be terminated (327 IAC 8-10).
The most frequently asked question we receive is: I do not use my irrigation system, do I still have to test and maintain the backflow preventer? The answer is Yes, as long as the irrigation system is connected to the Town’s potable water supply the potential for backflow exists and you must have it tested annually in accordance with IDEM rules.
Certified backflow prevention device inspectors can be found at irrigation companies, plumbing outfits and landscaping companies. If you want to verify if the company is licensed please call our Planning & Building Department to verify at 219-322-2211 ext.4.
The protection of Schererville’s water supply is of critical importance to the Town of Schererville and its residents. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Chad Nondorf, Certified Water System Operator at 219-322-6688 or e-mail publicworks@schererville.org.