On September 22, 2015, the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners adopted a new landscape irrigation efficiency code to promote water conservation and improve water quality. The design standards took effect 4/1/2016.
Irrigation professionals installing or maintaining irrigation systems within Alachua County must register their business. The irrigation portal works best with Chrome.
All new irrigation systems installed in Alachua County after 10/1/2019 require County approval, which includes a review fee and site plan. All systems will then go through an inspection process. The inspection fee is waived for irrigation professionals who are certified for self-inspection (see training below). Starting 10/1/2019 all new systems must have a weather-based controller OR a soil moisture sensor.
Fees and site plans are waived for new construction that achieves Florida Water Star Certification.
Fees
Homeowners
If you are installing a new irrigation system (or modifying 50% of an existing system), you must comply with this ordinance. Please consult with Hollie Greer at 352-264-6827 if you plan to install it yourself, as we will help you navigate the approval process.
Training
The next Florida Water Star AP class in Alachua County will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at the UF/IFAS Alachua County Extension Office (22712 W. Newberry Road, Newberry, FL). View the flier here. To register, visit profile.fngla.org/upcoming-events.
For information on obtaining the State's voluntary Irrigation license, which also qualifies you for self-inspection, visit the Florida Irrigation Society.
Forms and Resources
Application Portal- This site allows irrigation professionals to request approvals, pay fees, and set up inspections on-line. HERE is a document explaining how to use the portal.
Approval Form- This form can be filled out on-line through the application portal. If you want to apply and pay in person or by mail, print this form and return to Rebecca Hoffmann at 408 W University Ave, Suite 106, Gainesville, FL, 32601.
Authorization to Access Property Form- This form must be filled out by the property owner and submitted with the Approval Form (either on-line through the application portal or with your paper application).
Self Inspection Checklist- This form lists all of the design standards required for passing EPD inspection and is a GREAT tool. For irrigation professionals qualified to self-inspect, it is recommended that you keep a copy of the signed checklist for your records, but this form is not currently required for submittal.
Sample Site Sketch- This sample illustrates what should be included in the irrigation site sketch. Providing a complete sketch expedites the review process.
Sample Calculations- Use this optional spreadsheet to tabulate required information. Copying and pasting the completed table on your irrigation sketch will speed up staff review.
Frequently Asked Questions- This document addresses common questions.
Temporary Irrigation Affidavit- This form is for documenting the use of temporary irrigation.
Click HERE to download a pamphlet explaining the code.
Questions or concerns, please contact:
Rebecca Hoffmann 352-264-6809
or
Hollie Greer at 352-264-6827