CENTREVILLE - The Queen Anne’s County Plumbing & HVAC Board is reaching out to neighborhood associations to assist in preventing a potential contamination of local wells and public water systems.
“We are aware that many lawn sprinkler systems are being installed in Queen Anne’s County, most of which have not been permitted,” said Michael Sipes, President of the county’s Plumbing/ HVAC Board. Improperly installed sprinkler systems can contribute to pesticides and fecal matter entering drinking water drawn from a well.
“We are aware that people may not know that there is a permit process in place to assure that all these lawn irrigation systems have backflow/back siphonage protection. It is required that prior to installing a lawn irrigation system a Zoning Certificate, a Plumbing Permit and a backflow/back siphonage test form be obtained and issued,” Sipes said.
These devices are required to protect any public water system and/or private well from hazardous contamination from lawn irrigation systems. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure all backflow, back siphonage devices are working properly by having them permitted, tested or replaced as needed by a certified Master Plumber. Failure to comply could cause property damage, personal injury or death. The property owner is solely responsible for all possible backflow, back siphonage and cross connection. Those with questions may contact the Plumbing Board at 410-758-1271
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