A cross connection is a point in a plumbing system where it is possible for a non-potable substance, such as a chemical, to come into contact with the potable (safe) drinking water supply. Most cross connections occur beyond the customer’s service connection, within residential, commercial, institutional or industrial plumbing systems.
Michigan’s Safe Drinking Water Act protects drinking water and prevents cross connections that may pose a hazard to the potable water supply. In the past, the Water Department has focused its efforts on addressing cross connections at commercial and industrial properties due to their greater risk for potential contaminants. While these inspections will continue, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) is now requiring inspections of potential cross connections with residential properties. Most residential cross connections are found at a home’s exterior hose bib connection (your outside hose connection), or with a residential irrigation system.
At the end of May Hydrocorp, the entity conducting the exterior residential inspections, will be sending letters to some residents to inform them when their property will be inspected. Residential inspections will be completed in phases over a multi-year process. Underground irrigation systems will likely need to have their backflow prevention device tested. If so, the property owner will be notified.
City of Mt.Pleasant 