The 1-2-3’s of Backflow Prevention Testing

SPU’s Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control Policy requires annual testing of irrigation backflow devices. This is for the safety of all users, preventing the risk of backflow contamination to our drinking water.

Annual Testing (60 Day Window)

Each year your backflow prevention device (attached to your irrigation system) must be tested by an ASSE Certified Backflow Tester and a successful test submitted. (List of testers is provided below.)

You will be notified a month in advance of your testing due date via US Mail.

Your tester can submit a successful test up to 30 days after your test due date without incident (grace period). After 30 days and no successful test a penalty of $150 will be applied to your utility billing account.

Alternative to Testing (Voluntary Lockout)

You can avoid backflow device testing by requesting to have your irrigation system locked out. This means you will not be able to use your irrigation system for the season. It cannot be unlocked without the submission of a successful test.

Contact SPU to request this lockout.

Failure to Comply

In a given season, if no successful test is submitted – or you fail to proactively request a system lockout – within the the timeframe noted above, the $150 penalty is non-refundable AND your irrigation system could be involuntarily locked out by SPU. Your system cannot be unlocked or used without the submission of a successful test.