Backflow Prevention Assemblies (backflow preventers) are required by municipalities and other governmental agencies to protect the public water supply from becoming contaminated by the reversal of flow of water and other liquids, gases, or other substances into the public water supply.

Backflow preventers are found on private property and typically found on the private side, downstream, of the water meter. It is the responsibility of the property owner to install and maintain the backflow preventer when one is required. If a backflow preventer is not installed, not installed properly, or not maintained, the utility has the right to stop service and/ or fine the property owner until the problem is corrected.

Backflow prevention assemblies vary in size depending on their intended use. The most common use for back flow preventers is for isolated private fire-line systems, landscape irrigation, and for fire sprinkler systems. A small backflow preventer would be used for an individual’s irrigation system and a large backflow prevention system contained in a vault would be used for a private commercial fire line. The District is encouraged to investigate other local requirements where a backflow preventer may be required.

The cost to cure (refer to the

ROW Appraisal and Review Manual

) a backflow prevention system, which is required to be adjusted due to highway construction, should be included in the appraisal of the parcel where the backflow preventer is located. The property owner is typically responsible for hiring a licensed plumber to install a new backflow preventer.