Trusted Sprinkler Experts in Herriman, UT

What Homeowners Need to Know About Irrigation Systems in Herriman

• Local Soil and Water Conditions

  Herriman sits along the western Salt Lake Valley with soils typical of arid foothill environments. Most native soils are light-colored, alkaline loams or sandy loams with gravel and rock fragments. State soil surveys note that subsurface calcium carbonate layers (lime or hardpan) are common in this area. These layers can slow deep drainage and cause water to perch closer to the surface. Overall, drainage is generally good, but properties with hardpan or clay lenses may require longer, deeper watering cycles to move moisture below the root zone. Soil amendments (compost, organic matter) help improve infiltration and root penetration.

• Irrigation Water Information

  Herriman provides two separate water systems. Culinary water (drinking and indoor use) is supplied by the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District in winter and by local wells and reservoirs in summer. Secondary (pressurized irrigation) water is available in much of the city and is intended for outdoor irrigation only. Both systems are metered and billed separately. Culinary water is the more expensive supply, with Tier-1 usage generally around $2–$3 per 1,000 gallons, depending on meter size and service zone. Secondary irrigation water starts lower (around $1.70 per 1,000 gallons at Tier-1) and increases by tier at higher usage levels, but remains cheaper than culinary water. Rates have increased recently (a 16.3% increase in 2024 and another increase in 2025), so customers should reference the City’s Master Fee Schedule or online bill calculator for exact current pricing.

• When to Turn Sprinklers On and Off

  In areas served by secondary water, Herriman typically turns irrigation on in early May and shuts it off by mid-October each year. This aligns with the local growing season. Average freeze dates reinforce this schedule: the last spring freeze usually occurs around mid-May, and the first fall freeze around early October. After secondary water is shut off, irrigation should stop to avoid freeze damage. In spring, watering should generally wait until freezing risk has passed.

• Watering Schedule Regulations

  Herriman emphasizes conservation but does not currently enforce a strict citywide watering schedule. Residents are strongly encouraged to water during cooler hours (before 10:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m.) to reduce evaporation. While an odd/even watering pattern is commonly recommended by regional water providers, Herriman has not adopted a mandatory odd/even ordinance. Instead, the City promotes efficient irrigation, Localscapes landscaping, and compliance with state lawn-watering guidance. New developments must meet Herriman’s Water Efficiency Standards, including smart controllers and water-wise plantings.

• Rebates & Incentives for Conservation

  Herriman does not offer city-specific rebates. Residents and businesses participate in the Utah Water Savers (formerly Slow the Flow) program. Available incentives typically include a $100 smart controller rebate and another for roughly $0.50 per square foot for converting sprinkler zones to drip irrigation. These programs apply citywide and represent the primary rebate opportunities for Herriman properties.

• Backflow Prevention Rules

  Herriman requires approved backflow prevention assemblies on all irrigation connections to protect the drinking water system. Any property using culinary or secondary water for irrigation must install a code-approved device at the meter or property line. Properties with both culinary and secondary services typically require a reduced-pressure zone (RPZ) backflow preventer and proper separation so only one source operates at a time. All backflow devices must be tested annually by a certified tester and maintained in working order. Non-compliance can result in water service interruption for both residential and commercial properties.