The City of Anaheim has established guidelines for backflow prevention and cross-connection control to protect the public water supply.
Anaheim property owners are responsible for ensuring that backflow prevention devices are properly installed, tested annually, and maintained in good working order. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to penalties, civil liabilities and the interruption of water service.
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Backflow Test Pros Turn-key Backflow Maintenance includes:
Because backflow devices are critical to maintaining clean, safe water supplies, California State Water Districts, County Health Boards and Local Municipalities regulations mandate that only licensed and certified backflow technicians and plumbers who have the expertise, training, have the legal authority to perform repairs or replacements in compliance with regulations and with the necessary quality control to protect the public water system.
Failing to comply with the regulations may result in fines or suspension of water service. It is important for Anaheim homeowners and businesses to stay up-to-date with local regulations and to ensure that their backflow devices are tested annually by a certified tester.
Anaheim, like many cities, is committed to ensuring the safety and quality of its public drinking water. The city's Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention regulations are designed to prevent contamination or pollution of the public water supply due to backflow from private water systems. These regulations are based on the California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 17 and enforced by Anaheim Public Utilities (APU).
Anaheim property owners are responsible for ensuring that backflow prevention devices are installed properly and meet local and state regulations. Backflow prevention devices must be installed following Anaheim's Plumbing and Building Code as well as California's State Building Standards. The Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) provides guidance and specifications for the correct installation.
Anaheim property owners must also hire a certified backflow tester to perform annual tests on their devices. All backflow prevention devices must be tested annually by a certified backflow prevention tester to ensure that they are working correctly. Only individuals with a valid Certified Backflow Prevention Device Tester (C.B.P.D.T.) certification can conduct these tests. Aslo, backflow test results must be submitted to Anaheim Public Utilities. If the test results are not submitted on time, a penalty fee may be charged, and water service may be temporarily suspended.
Backflow device maintenance is also an important element of Anaheim property owner's responsibilities. Anaheim homeowners and businesses are required to keep backflow prevention devices in good working order. If a backflow device fails the test, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. Once repairs are made, the device must be retested and the new results submitted to APU. Backflow prevention devices that are beyond repair or obsolete may need to be completely replaced.
Failing to comply with the regulations may result in fines or suspension of water service. It is important for property owners to stay up-to-date with local regulations and to ensure that their backflow devices are tested annually by a certified tester.
For more information, to schedule testing, or to submit reports, property owners should contact Anaheim Public Utilities (APU)
The City of Anaheim enforces backflow prevention regulations to protect its public water supply from contamination. These regulations aim to prevent backflow, the unwanted reverse flow of water that can introduce pollutants or contaminants into the potable water system by implementing:
- Backflow Prevention: The main goal is to protect Anaheim’s drinking water from contamination due to backflow, which is the reversal of water flow into the public system. This could happen when there is a drop in pressure in the water supply.
- Cross-Connection Control: Cross-connections occur when a potable water supply is directly connected to a non-potable water system, such as irrigation, fire suppression, industrial processes, or swimming pools. The purpose of these regulations is to eliminate or control cross-connections to prevent backflow.
Anaheim’s regulations require the installation of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) in specific scenarios to protect the water supply.
Anaheim's water system is managed by the City's Public Utilities Department, which enforces backflow prevention measures in accordance with:
- California Code of Regulations Title 17: Outlines the requirements for backflow prevention and cross-connection control.
- Anaheim Municipal Code Chapter 10.24: Provides detailed guidelines for implementing cross-connection control programs.
Backflow prevention devices must be installed in compliance with the Municipal Code and California Plumbing Code.
Anaheim’s regulations require the installation of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) in specific scenarios, including:
- Anaheim Property Irrigation Systems: To prevent contaminants from entering the potable water supply through irrigation lines.
- Anaheim Commercial and Industrial Properties: Facilities with potential cross-connections, such as those involving chemicals or pressurized systems, are required to install appropriate backflow prevention assemblies.
- Anaheim Property Fire Protection Systems: To prevent stagnant water from fire suppression systems from flowing back into the drinking water supply.
- Anaheim Property Auxiliary Water Sources: Properties with alternative water sources like wells or cisterns must install backflow prevention devices to prevent cross-contamination.
Failure to Install: Failure to install the required backflow prevention assemblies for properties in Anaheim CA may result in the city discontinuing water service until compliance is achieved.
To ensure the continued effectiveness of backflow prevention assemblies, the following backflow testing and maintenance protocols are required in Anaheim:
- Anaheim Backflow Installation Responsibility: Anaheim property owners are responsible for installing backflow prevention assemblies as required by the city's regulations.
- Anaheim Backflow Compliance: Anaheim backflow installations must adhere to the city's standards, including specific device types and installation procedures.
- Anaheim Annual Backflow Testing: All backflow prevention assemblies must be tested at least once a year by a certified tester.
- Anaheim Post-Installation or Repair Backflow Testing: Any new installation, relocation, or repair of a backflow device requires immediate testing to confirm correct operation.
- Anaheim Backflow Record Keeping: Test results must be submitted to the appropriate regulatory agency to maintain compliance records.
- Anaheim Approved Backflow Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies listed by recognized testing agencies are permitted. The USC-FCCCHR provides a comprehensive list of approved devices.
- Anaheim Certified Backflow Testers: Testing must be conducted by individuals certified by the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA). A directory of certified testers is available on the County's official website.
Failure to comply with Anaheim backflow testing requirements can result in water service termination until compliance is achieved.
Types of Backflow Prevention Devices:
- Reduced Pressure (RP) Assemblies: Used for high-hazard situations. These devices contain two check valves and a relief valve that prevents backflow even under varying pressure conditions. RP Assemblies are typically required for industrial facilities or other high-risk systems.
- Double Check Valve (DC) Assemblies: Used for medium to low-risk hazards. These devices have two check valves and are generally required for residential and light commercial properties, such as irrigation systems.
- Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB): Commonly used for irrigation systems, these devices prevent back-siphonage by allowing air to enter the system if the pressure drops, preventing water from flowing back into the potable system.
- Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers (AVB): Similar to PVBs but typically for smaller irrigation systems or low-risk installations. All devices must be approved by recognized testing organizations such as the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research at the University of Southern California or similar bodies.
These backflow devices must be installed immediately downstream of the water meter and must be approved by recognized testing agencies. The University of Southern California’s Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCCHR) provides a comprehensive list of approved devices.
Backflow prevention devices must be installed following Anaheim's Plumbing and Building Code as well as California's State Building Standards.
The appropriate device is determined based on the degree of hazard present at the property.
Proper testing and maintenance of backflow devices are essential for compliance with local regulations and for safeguarding community health. The City of Anaheim has the following requirements for testing, certification, and documentation of backflow prevention assemblies:
Backflow Annual Testing:
- All backflow prevention devices must be tested annually by a certified backflow prevention tester to ensure that they are working correctly.
- Certified Testers: Only individuals with a valid Certified Backflow Prevention Device Tester (C.B.P.D.T.) certification can conduct these tests.- Test Reports:
- After testing, the results must be submitted to Anaheim Public Utilities (APU). This is typically done through a backflow test report. The report should include:
- The date of the test
- Tester’s certification number
- Device information (make, model, serial number)
- Test results (whether the device passed or failed)
The report must be submitted to APU within 10 days of testing. Failure to submit the test report on time could result in penalties or service interruption.
Backflow Maintenance and Repair:
- If a backflow device fails the test, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. A licensed plumber or certified backflow tester must perform the repairs.
- Once repairs are made, the device must be retested and the new results submitted to APU.
- Devices that are beyond repair or obsolete may need to be completely replaced.
Anaheim property owners are responsible for ensuring that backflow prevention devices are properly installed, tested annually, and maintained in good working order. Non-compliance with the following regulations can lead to penalties, including the interruption of water service:
- Installation of Backflow Devices: Property owners are responsible for ensuring that backflow prevention devices are installed properly and meet local and state regulations. APU provides guidance and specifications for the correct installation.
- Annual Backflow Testing: Property owners must hire a certified backflow tester to perform annual tests on their devices. The test results must be submitted to Anaheim Public Utilities. If the test results are not submitted on time, a penalty fee may be charged, and water service may be temporarily suspended.
- Backflow Maintenance: Property owners are also responsible for maintaining the backflow prevention devices in good working order. This means repairing or replacing defective devices as soon as problems are identified.
Failure to Comply:
- Penalties: Fines may be levied for failure to meet testing and reporting deadlines. In some cases, if the issue is not resolved promptly, water service may be suspended.
- The penalty fee for non-compliance could range from $50 to $200, depending on the severity and duration of the violation.
Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) oversees cross connection requirements for the City of Anaheim and may conduct routine inspections of commercial, industrial, and multi-family properties to verify compliance with cross-connection and backflow prevention regulations. Inspections may be prompted by construction, renovation, or reported issues with backflow devices.
Below are the backflow inspection and installation guidelines for the City of Anaheim:
Mandatory Inspections: Anaheim Public Utilities may conduct routine inspections of properties to ensure that backflow prevention devices are properly installed and functioning. These inspections may occur randomly or when there is a suspected violation.
Voluntary Inspections: Property owners can request a voluntary inspection if they have concerns about their backflow device or suspect a malfunction. APU may conduct these inspections at a nominal fee, and property owners will be provided with a report of any issues that need addressing.- Inspection Focus: Inspections may be more frequent for properties with complex systems, such as industrial, commercial, and multi-family units, as these tend to have higher risks for contamination.
The City of Anaheim implements strict Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention regulations and ordinances require that all backflow prevention devices must be tested annually to ensure they are functioning properly. Tests must be conducted by a certified backflow prevention tester.
Testing Fees: The cost for testing a backflow prevention device is typically borne by the property owner and paid directly to the certified backflow tester. The fee can range from $50 to $150, depending on the complexity of the device and the property.
Penalty Fees: Property owners who fail to submit their test reports on time or fail to repair or replace non-functioning devices may face penalties. These can include:
- Late fees for failure to submit test reports by the deadline.
- Fines ranging from $50 to $200 for non-compliance.
- Water shutoff fees if non-compliance service interruption.
Inspection Fees: If the city needs to conduct a special inspection or retest, fees may apply. These inspections are generally more expensive and could cost anywhere from $50 to $200 depending on the nature of the inspection.
The City of Anaheim has a comprehensive set of regulations in place to ensure backflow prevention and cross-connection control to safeguard its public water supply. Anaheim's backflow prevention program aligns with standards set by the California Code of Regulations Title 17, Section 7584, and the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.
California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 17: These state regulations govern cross-connection control and backflow prevention in California. Anaheim’s local regulations align with these requirements.
Anaheim Municipal Code: The City of Anaheim has specific regulations for backflow prevention systems. Property owners must ensure that their backflow devices comply with the Anaheim Municipal Code and California Plumbing Code. These codes outline acceptable backflow prevention devices, installation requirements, and inspection procedures.
Additional Relevant Codes:
- California Health and Safety Code (Sections 116800-116830): These sections focus on protecting public water systems from contamination.
- Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC): This model code provides specifications for the installation and maintenance of backflow prevention devices.
For more information, to schedule testing, or to submit reports, Anaheim property owners should contact Anaheim Public Utilities (APU):
Anaheim Public Utilities - Backflow Prevention Division
- Phone: (714) 765-5166
- Email: (Available on Anaheim Public Utilities website)
- Anaheim Public Utilities - Backflow Prevention
The Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) also provides online resources and forms, such as the backflow test report form and lists of certified testers in the area.
For further guidance or assistance with backflow prevention compliance, contact the City of Anaheim Public Utilities for resources and support.
Here is an outline of special circumstances pertaining to backflow assembly installation, testing and repair in Anaheim CA which require special attention:
Emergency Situations: If backflow occurs, or if a backflow device is suspected of malfunctioning, the property owner should immediately shut off water and contact APU for assistance. The City may shut off water service temporarily to prevent contamination.
Irrigation Systems: Specific requirements exist for backflow prevention devices on irrigation systems. In some cases, properties with irrigation systems may be required to install a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) or Double Check Valve (DC) to prevent contamination from chemicals or fertilizers.
Multi-Family and Commercial Properties: These types of properties are often subject to more stringent backflow prevention requirements due to the higher risk of cross-connections and contamination. These properties may need to undergo more frequent inspections and may require additional or more advanced backflow prevention devices.
Anaheim, the largest city in Orange County by population and land area, is a globally recognized urban center celebrated for its theme parks, convention facilities, and dynamic economy. With a population of over 340,000, Anaheim serves as a major regional anchor in Southern California—balancing tourism, sports, technology, and community development across its diverse neighborhoods.
Founded in 1857 by German settlers as an agricultural colony, Anaheim—meaning “home by the Santa Ana River”—originally flourished through vineyards, citrus farming, and ranching. Incorporated in 1870, it transitioned over the 20th century from a rural town into a modern city. That transformation reached a pivotal moment in 1955 with the opening of Disneyland, a cultural and economic landmark that would forever shape Anaheim's identity on the world stage.
Today, The Disneyland Resort remains Anaheim’s most iconic destination. Consisting of Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, and the Downtown Disney District, the resort attracts tens of millions of visitors annually and serves as a powerful economic engine, generating jobs, tourism revenue, and global recognition. Adjacent hotels, restaurants, and shopping venues extend the impact of the resort well beyond its gates.
The city’s commitment to large-scale hospitality is further evidenced by the Anaheim Convention Center, the largest convention facility on the West Coast. Located in the Anaheim Resort District, it hosts international trade shows, entertainment expos, and business conferences that reinforce the city’s reputation as a premier destination for events and exhibitions.
Beyond tourism, Anaheim is a major center for sports and live entertainment. Angel Stadium, home of Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Angels, and the Honda Center, home of the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, are flagship venues for professional sports, concerts, and family entertainment. These venues contribute to a year-round calendar of events that sustain local commerce and civic pride.
Anaheim’s economy is multifaceted. In addition to tourism, the city is home to key industries in aerospace, healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing. Corporate headquarters, logistics hubs, and technology firms are drawn to the city’s strategic location near major freeways (I-5, SR-91, and SR-57), proximity to John Wayne Airport, and access to rail infrastructure through the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC)—a state-of-the-art transit hub connecting Amtrak, Metrolink, buses, and future high-speed rail.
Civic life is centered at Anaheim City Hall and Pearson Park, a historic public space in the city’s original downtown. The Anaheim Public Library system supports lifelong learning and community programming, while the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center in downtown Anaheim showcases local and regional art and history. The city also manages an extensive network of parks, including Yorba Regional Park, Oak Canyon Nature Center, and La Palma Park, offering trails, picnic areas, and sports fields to residents and visitors alike.
Education in Anaheim is served by multiple school districts, most notably Anaheim Union High School District, Anaheim Elementary School District, and nearby higher education institutions such as Fullerton College, California State University, Fullerton, and UC Irvine. The city also supports charter and private schools, offering a range of academic choices for families.
Anaheim is one of California’s most diverse cities, home to a population that includes large Latino, Asian (particularly Vietnamese and Filipino), Arab-American, and African American communities. This multiculturalism is reflected in the city’s culinary scene, places of worship, small businesses, and public events such as Fiestas Patrias, OC Tet Festival, and Taste of Anaheim.
Residentially, Anaheim offers a wide array of housing—from historic bungalows and postwar suburban homes to modern condominiums and luxury developments in Anaheim Hills. Neighborhoods such as The Colony, Platinum Triangle, and West Anaheim offer unique architectural character and reflect the city’s diverse socioeconomic and cultural composition.
Anaheim is also taking steps toward a more sustainable and inclusive future. Urban planning initiatives include revitalization of the Platinum Triangle, affordable housing projects, and environmental upgrades to public infrastructure. The city is investing in bike lanes, green energy, water conservation, and expanded transit access to meet long-term goals of livability and resilience.
