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How to Use This Checklist

Work through each section before starting your irrigation project. Sections 1–3 should be completed before you submit your permit application. Sections 4–5 cover inspections and post-installation requirements. Use the Permit Checker Tool to confirm your state's specific requirements first.

① Before You Apply: Preliminary Research

  • Confirmed permit is required by contacting local building department
  • Called water utility to confirm required backflow device type (PVB or RPZ)
  • Confirmed whether homeowner/owner-builder permit is available (or licensed contractor required)
  • Checked if rain sensor is required in your state (required in TX, FL, GA, VA, CA, and others)
  • Called 811 — utility lines located and marked before any digging
  • Checked if irrigation extends into city right-of-way (parkway strip) — separate ROW permit may be required
  • Checked whether irrigation will use potable water, well water, or reclaimed water — each has different permit requirements

② Permit Application: Documents to Prepare

  • Property address, owner name, and contact information ready
  • Site plan prepared showing: property boundary, home footprint, zone layout, pipe routing, water connection point, backflow preventer location, controller location, rain sensor location
  • Number of irrigation zones identified and documented
  • Backflow device type confirmed (PVB or RPZ) — device make and model listed if required
  • Contractor information ready (license number, business name) — OR — owner-builder declaration/affidavit completed
  • Estimated project cost calculated (used for fee calculation in some jurisdictions)
  • Payment method ready for permit fee ($75–$300 typical range)

③ Before Final Inspection: Pre-Inspection Checklist

  • Backflow preventer is correct type (PVB or RPZ per utility requirement)
  • PVB is elevated at least 12 inches above the highest sprinkler head in the system
  • PVB is installed above grade (not buried, not in an enclosed vault)
  • Shut-off valves on both sides of backflow device are present and operational
  • Backflow device is accessible for inspection and future testing (not blocked by fencing or landscaping)
  • Rain sensor is installed in an exposed location (receives unobstructed rainfall)
  • Rain sensor is wired to controller SEN terminals and override function is working
  • All zones are operational and responding to controller commands
  • No spray heads and rotors mixed in the same zone
  • System matches site plan submitted with permit — if changes were made, amend permit before inspection
  • Permit number posted or available on site for inspector

④ After Inspection: Post-Permit Steps

  • Permit inspection passed — permit closed and documented
  • Backflow device registered with water utility (typically within 30 days of installation)
  • Initial backflow device test completed by certified backflow tester and results submitted to utility
  • Annual testing reminder set (most utilities require annual or biennial testing)
  • Permit documents retained for home records (needed for future sale or refinancing)

⑤ Annual Maintenance Reminders

  • Annual (or biennial) backflow preventer test scheduled with certified tester
  • Test report submitted to water utility before deadline (check your utility's annual notice)
  • System winterized before first freeze (drain or blow-out all zones)
  • Rain sensor function tested at spring startup — replace absorbent disc if it no longer swells when wet
  • Controller program reviewed and updated for seasonal watering schedule
  • Water management district irrigation schedule confirmed (Florida, Texas, and other regulated states)
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Permit Checker Tool

Use the Irrigation Permit Checker to get a state-specific summary of permit requirements, contractor rules, and backflow device requirements before filling out this checklist.

Related Guides: How to Get a Permit (Step-by-Step) · Backflow Device Types · What Inspectors Check · Annual Testing Guide