First let me say sorry for taking so long trying to post to this question. I tried to get in, but my old password wasn't working.
When I requested a new password, it took me a few days before I relalized the link I was emailed to follow did not include the ".com" in "sprinklertalk.com". Obviously there are a few bugs to shake out of the new forum here.
You do not necessarily need an additional backflow preventor as your main line to your house should contain one at the connection source from the city. On my installs I always install a check valve for the portion of the line supplying the sprinkler system, just as a precautionary to keep "dirty" water from backing into the main line to the house. The check valve only opens up to allow water to the sprinkler system when the system is on.
#1. You can't assume there is even a check valve between the mainline to the house and the mainline to the irrigation. After all, a properly installed system SHOULD contain a back flow preventer.
#2. A Check value is NOT a back flow preventer.
The problem with a simple check value is that it can easily get stuck "open" if there is any trash in the lines and allow water to back flow. And I can tell you from experience that there is trash in the lines, even on city water. Based on advice from
www.irrigationtutorials.com, I installed a fine mesh filter at the start of my irrigation system. The 1st year of use, I found a 1/2" long piece of something that looked like a part of a tooth pick (ON CITY WATER in a city that is considered to have very good water quality).
The other problem with a check valve (or even a double check) is that there is no way to test them to insure they are working.
What you really need is either a double check (DC) backflow preventer (it's basically just two check valves, but it includes test cocks so you can prove it is still working), Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ), Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) or Anti-siphon valves.
If you want to insure your instalation is legal, you need to check with your local building codes department and determine which ones meet codes in your area. Some places simply state any sort of back-flow preventer, others will go so far as to specify a part number (i.e. type, manufacture, and part) that must be used to meet code.
Here's a direct link for more information at the web site I mentioned before. It's got lots of great information and referened my many on these boards.
http://www.irrigationtutorials.com/sprinkler08.htm