Vernon Backflow Testing, Installation & Repair

1. Scope & Authority

The City of Vernon enforces backflow prevention measures to protect its potable water system from contamination. These measures are implemented under the authority of the California Code of Regulations, Title 17, and the Vernon Municipal Code, specifically Chapter 13.16, Sections 13.16.080 to 13.16.100. The City’s Public Works Department oversees the Cross-Connection Control Program to ensure compliance and safeguard public health.

2. Responsibilities of Property Owners

Installation & Maintenance: Property owners must install and maintain approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) at service connections where potential hazards are identified.

Annual Testing: BPAs must be tested at least once per year by a certified backflow prevention tester. Test results must be submitted to the City for record-keeping and compliance verification.

Repairs & Replacements: If a BPA fails the annual test, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. Repairs can only be performed by a licensed plumber or certified backflow prevention tester.

Designated User Supervisor: At each premises where the City deems it necessary, a user supervisor shall be designated by and at the expense of the water user. This supervisor is responsible for monitoring the backflow prevention devices and avoiding cross-connections. In the event of contamination or pollution of the drinking water system due to a cross-connection on the premises, the City shall be promptly notified.

3. Scenarios Requiring Backflow Prevention Assemblies (BPAs)

The City of Vernon requires BPAs in various scenarios to protect the public water supply: Irrigation Systems: To prevent contaminants from entering the potable water supply through irrigation lines.

Commercial and Industrial Properties: Facilities with potential cross-connections, such as those involving chemicals or pressurized systems, are required to install appropriate BPAs.

Fire Protection Systems: To prevent stagnant water from fire suppression systems from flowing back into the drinking water supply.

Auxiliary Water Sources: Properties with alternative water sources like wells or cisterns must install backflow prevention devices to prevent cross-contamination.

4. Testing & Maintenance Requirements

Annual Testing: All BPAs must be tested annually by a certified backflow prevention tester to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Test Report Submission: Test results must be submitted to the City for record-keeping and compliance verification.

Repairs & Replacements: If a BPA fails the test, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. Repairs can only be performed by a licensed plumber or certified backflow prevention tester.

5. Approved Devices & Certified Testers

Approved Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies that are approved by recognized standards agencies, such as the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research at USC, may be installed.

Certified Testers: Testing must be conducted by individuals certified by the City or a recognized certifying body. A directory of certified testers is available upon request from the City.

6. Enforcement & Penalties

Non-Compliance: Failure to install, test, and maintain the required BPAs may result in the disconnection of water service. Water service will not be restored until such conditions or defects are corrected to the satisfaction of the City.

Penalties: Late submission of test reports may result in penalties, including late fees or other enforcement actions as determined by the City. Vernon Water Authority Contact Info: City of Vernon – Public Utilities Department 4305 S. Santa Fe Avenue Vernon, CA 90058 Tel: (323) 583-8811 ext. 202, 297, or 269