Cedar Hills residents need to winterize their sprinkler systems before the city's projected shutoff of pressurized irrigation water on Thursday, Oct. 15.

The city posted a notice on its website telling homeowners to leave their individual pressurized irrigation (PI) shut-off valves in the open position. That step allows the system to drain properly once the city cuts the water supply.

The valve must stay open.

Residents whose sprinkler systems are still running after Tuesday, Oct. 20, should contact the city. Cedar Hills said it will investigate any system still in service after that date for a possible cross connection, meaning the irrigation line may be tied into the home's culinary water supply.

The city also reminded residents that tampering with, opening, or obstructing any city meters, meter boxes, or meter cans, including irrigation meters, violates city code. All meter cans and boxes must be kept clear of landscaping and debris and remain visible and accessible.

The planned shutoff comes months after the Cedar Hills City Council approved rate increases for PI water usage exceeding 150% of a resident's allotment, citing drought conditions. Those higher rates appeared on May utility bills, which residents received in June.

What to do before Oct. 15:

• Leave your PI shut-off valve open so the line can drain.
• Clear any landscaping or debris from meter boxes.

After Oct. 20:

• If your system is still running, contact Cedar Hills to report it.