Check with the building department in your area before you start planning a sprinkler system. Research any installation restrictions or codes that might affect the design, including regulations for backflow preventers and the sizes of valves and pipes you’re allowed to use.

You’ll also need to call your utility companies to determine if there are gas, water, telephone, or cable lines on your property that might be broken or disrupted by trenching for sprinklers. Mark the location of all underground utilities on your garden layout.

To begin planning your irrigation system, first locate the water supply, which is usually your home water source. Next, find the point where you’ll connect your system to that water supply pipe.

It’s important to check and note your home’s water pressure and the flow rate of the water supply pipe that will serve the sprinklers. Water pressure lower than 40 pounds per square inch limits the sprinkler heads you can install. High water pressure can be a problem too: To prevent misting at the sprinkler nozzle, systems with between 80 and 100 psi may need pressure or flow regulation.