The City of Brea has established guidelines for backflow prevention and cross-connection control to protect the public water supply.
Brea 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.
Backflow Test Pros is 100% dedicated to ensuring your business meets local water authority annual backflow testing and repair requirements so you can avoid civil penalties and ensure your water is not turned off for noncompliance.
Schedule in advance to ensure the most convenient backflow testing time slot and ensure water authority certification
Save time and avoid the headache of finding your city backflow prevention test certification letter
Avoid costly disruptions to your business operations with the Backflow Test Pros backflow repair coverage
Document your backflow prevention test status with automated same day water authority certification
With Backflow Test Pros' Managed Backflow Testing & Maintenance service, there is no need for Brea businesses and homeowners to spend hours going over county and local water utility regulations, ordinances, requirements, deadlines, fees, guidelines, reporting schedules and forms.
Everything is Done for You to simply the backflow maintenance process and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Backflow Test Pros are AWWA Certified Backflow Testers and Certified Backflow Testers with County Health Departments across Southern California. As state licensed contractors, and AWWA cross connection specialists, our team of experienced backflow experts work with city water departments throughout Southern California to protect our water, and prevent backflow contamination.
Relying on Backflow Testing Pros' licensed, certified and bonded professionals ensures that your backflow assembly installation, testing and repair is performed by certified cross connection control and backflow prevention experts in a timely manner conforming to backflow prevention testing protocols required by the the City of Brea Water Department installation, testing, repair requirements.
With state-of-the-art diagnostics, timely repairs, and proactive maintenance, we help commercial and residential customers in Brea and across Southern California avoid costly civil liabilities, penalties and water service disruptions.
Leading national brands and local businesses in Brea and throughout Southern California trust our backflow prevention device testing and repair services to safeguard the public water supply and ensure compliance with state and municipal regulations.
Backflow Test Pros' commitment to precision, reliability, and regulatory compliance has made us the preferred choice for Brea homeowners and businesses that demand the highest standards in water safety at the most competitive prices.
Backflow Test Pros provides dedicated support in everything from initial scheduling, water department communications, due date tracking, same day approval, routine maintenance and urgent repairs.
As a Backflow Test Pros client you can rest assured knowing that your backflows assemblies are monitored and compliant with local water authority regulations.
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 Brea 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.
California municipalities generally require annual testing of backflow prevention devices for properties that are connected to the public water supply and pose a potential contamination risk. This includes commercial properties, multi-family residential buildings, industrial sites, and certain high-risk areas.
Brea property owners are responsible for ensuring the installation of an appropriate backflow prevention device that meets both state and city regulations.
Property owners are required to hire a certified backflow tester annually to perform the testing and submit the results to the City of Brea. If the property owner does not submit test results on time, they may face penalties, or water service could be suspended until compliance is achieved.
Further, Brea property owners must ensure that their backflow prevention devices are maintained in good working condition throughout the year. This means regularly checking for signs of damage, corrosion, or other issues that could lead to malfunction.
After the installation of a new backflow device or any significant repair or replacement, a certified tester must perform a backflow test to ensure the device is functioning correctly before it is put back into service.
These regulations are in place to comply with both state (California Code of Regulations, Title 17) and local laws to ensure safe drinking water for all residents and businesses in Brea.
Failure to comply with testing requirements can lead to fines or a suspension of water service. In some cases, a $100 fine or more could be imposed for non-compliance, and the property owner might be required to pay an additional fee to reinstate water service.
The City of Brea 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 systems and devices to ensure that harmful substances, such as chemicals, fertilizers, or bacteria, do not flow back into the city's potable water supply.
Cross-connection control policies and practices that eliminates or minimizes the risk of contamination by preventing backflow from occurring. This is particularly critical in buildings where there are complex plumbing systems (e.g., hospitals, commercial kitchens, or factories) that could introduce harmful materials into the water system.
Brea’s regulations require the installation of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) in specific scenarios to protect the water supply.
Brea's water system is managed by the City's Public Works 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.
- Brea Municipal Code Chapter 13.16: Provides detailed guidelines for implementing cross-connection control programs.
All backflow prevention devices in Brea CA must be approved by recognized standards agencies like the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research at USC or other equivalent organizations.
Brea’s regulations require the installation of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) in specific scenarios, including:
- Brea Property Irrigation Systems: To prevent contaminants from entering the potable water supply through irrigation lines.
- Brea 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.
- Brea Property Fire Protection Systems: To prevent stagnant water from fire suppression systems from flowing back into the drinking water supply.
- Brea Property Auxiliary Water Sources: Properties with alternative water sources like wells or cisterns must install backflow prevention devices to prevent cross-contamination.
Backflow prevention devices must be installed in compliance with the Municipal Code and California Plumbing Code.
Failure to install a required backflow prevention assembly can result in termination of water service at your property by the City of Brea until compliance is achieved.
To ensure the continued effectiveness of backflow prevention assemblies, the following backflow testing and maintenance protocols are required in Brea:
- Brea Backflow Installation Responsibility: Brea property owners are responsible for installing backflow prevention assemblies as required by the city's regulations.
- Brea Backflow Compliance: Brea backflow installations must adhere to the city's standards, including specific device types and installation procedures.
- Brea Annual Backflow Testing: All backflow prevention assemblies must be tested at least once a year by a certified tester.
- Brea Post-Installation or Repair Backflow Testing: Any new installation, relocation, or repair of a backflow device requires immediate testing to confirm correct operation.
- Brea Backflow Record Keeping: Test results must be submitted to the appropriate regulatory agency to maintain compliance records.
- Brea Approved Backflow Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies listed by recognized testing agencies are permitted. The USC-FCCCHR provides a comprehensive list of approved devices.
- Brea Certified BackflowTesters: 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 Brea backflow testing requirements can result in water service termination until compliance is achieved.
The City of Brea also mandates that backflow devices must meet the standards set forth in the city's regulations and the AWWA Manual M14, Third Edition. Moreover, Brea backflow installation regulations require the installation of various types of backflow prevention devices, including:
- Reduced Pressure (RP) Assemblies: These devices are used in high-hazard situations. They feature two check valves and a pressure relief valve to prevent contaminants from entering the water system. These are commonly required for industrial applications or situations involving chemicals.
- Double Check Valve (DC) Assemblies: These devices are used for low- to medium-hazard situations. They provide a simple, reliable means of backflow prevention, typically used in residential or small commercial applications (e.g., irrigation systems, fire sprinklers, or cooling systems).
- Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB): Typically used on irrigation systems, this device prevents back-siphonage by creating a vacuum that stops water from flowing backward into the system when water pressure drops.
- Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers (AVB): These are simpler devices, often used on smaller systems or irrigation applications, and are primarily designed to protect against back-siphonage but not backpressure.
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 in Brea CA must be installed according to both the manufacturer’s guidelines and local plumbing codes to ensure they work effectively.
The appropriate device is determined based on the degree of hazard present on the residential or commercial property.
Proper testing and maintenance of backflow devices are essential for compliance with local regulations and for safeguarding community health. The City of Brea has the following requirements for testing, certification, and documentation of backflow prevention assemblies:
Annual Backflow Testing: Every backflow prevention device must be tested annually by a certified backflow prevention tester (C.B.P.D.T.). This tester is trained and licensed to check that the backflow device is functioning correctly and that it meets the required specifications.
Backflow Test Procedures: The tester checks for things like pressure differentials, proper sealing of check valves, and proper valve operation. The tester will also inspect for leaks or mechanical failures.
Backflow Test Reports: After testing, a backflow test report must be submitted to the City of Brea’s Water Division, typically within 10 days of the test. This report includes:
- Date of the test
- Tester’s certification number
- Device make and model
- Test results (pass/fail)
The report ensures that the backflow device is in working order and compliant with the City's regulations. If the test fails, repairs or replacements must be carried out promptly.
Backflow Repairs and Replacements: If a backflow prevention device fails, it must be repaired or replaced immediately by a licensed plumber or certified tester. The repair or replacement must meet all local plumbing and backflow prevention codes.
Once repairs are completed, the system must be retested, and the test results must be resubmitted.
Brea 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:
- Backflow Installation: The property owner is responsible for ensuring the installation of an appropriate backflow prevention device that meets both state and city regulations. This device must be installed in a manner that allows for easy testing and maintenance.
- Annual Backflow Testing: Property owners are required to hire a certified backflow tester annually to perform the testing and submit the results to the City of Brea. If the property owner does not submit test results on time, they may face penalties, or water service could be suspended until compliance is achieved.
- Backflow Maintenance: Property owners must ensure that their backflow prevention devices are maintained in good working condition throughout the year. This means regularly checking for signs of damage, corrosion, or other issues that could lead to malfunction.- Non-Compliance Penalties:
- Failure to comply with testing requirements can lead to fines or a suspension of water service. In some cases, a $100 fine or more could be imposed for non-compliance, and the property owner might be required to pay an additional fee to reinstate water service.
If a Brea property owner repeatedly fails to comply, the City may conduct backflow inspections or testing at the property’s expense.
The City of Brea Water Division oversees the cross connection requirements for Brea 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 Brea:
Mandatory Inspections: While the responsibility for annual testing falls on the property owner, the City may conduct random or routine inspections to verify that backflow prevention devices are correctly installed and operational.
Voluntary Inspections: Property owners may also request a voluntary inspection if they suspect issues with their backflow prevention device or are unsure about its functionality. The City might perform an initial inspection for free or at a nominal fee.- Focus Areas for Inspections:
Risk of contamination: For example, properties with pools, large irrigation systems, or industrial equipment may undergo closer scrutiny.
Property use: Commercial, industrial, or multi-family properties are often given priority for more frequent inspections due to the higher risk of contamination.
Proper testing and maintenance of backflow prevention devices are essential for compliance with local regulations and for safeguarding community health. The City of Brea has the following requirements for testing, certification, and documentation of backflow prevention assemblies:
Testing Fees: Testing fees are usually paid directly to the certified backflow tester, and the cost can vary based on the complexity and type of backflow prevention device installed. For a standard backflow test, fees typically range from $50 to $150.
Penalty Fees: If a backflow test is not completed by the deadline or if a device fails and is not repaired on time, property owners may incur fines. These fines can escalate with repeated offenses. The City may also charge fees for disconnection if water service is suspended due to non-compliance.
Inspection Fees: If the City conducts an inspection or retest, there could be additional fees. These inspections are typically more expensive than routine tests and can range from $50 to $200 depending on the complexity of the inspection.
The City of Brea has a comprehensive set of regulations in place to ensure backflow prevention and cross-connection control to safeguard its public water supply. Brea'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.
Key Local Ordinances and Codes
California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 17: These regulations set the statewide framework for cross-connection control and backflow prevention. Local cities like Brea must adhere to these rules and also have the ability to set additional regulations.
Brea Municipal Code: The City of Brea has additional requirements for backflow prevention and cross-connection control that may differ slightly from other areas. These can include specifics on types of devices used, testing intervals, and enforcement procedures.
Other Relevant Codes:
California Health and Safety Code (Sections 116800-116830): Provides broader public health protections related to water quality and backflow prevention.
Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC): This model code, which most California cities adopt, includes detailed guidelines on how backflow prevention systems should be installed.
If unsure about any specifics, or need clarification on your property’s backflow requirements, Brea homeowners and businesses should contact the City of Brea Water Division directly:
- Phone: (714) 990-7670
- City of Brea Water Division - Backflow Prevention
The City of Brea Water Division also provides resources and forms, such as the backflow test report submission form and lists of certified testers.
For further guidance or assistance with backflow prevention compliance, contact the City of Brea Water Division for resources and support.
For Emergency Situations where backflow might be imminent or detected, property owners may be required to shut off water to the property.
Brea, located in the northern part of Orange County near the Los Angeles County border, is a prosperous and well-planned city known for its strong economic base, community-focused development, and vibrant cultural life. With a population of approximately 47,000, Brea combines small-city charm with regional significance—serving as a hub for shopping, corporate headquarters, art, and suburban living.
Originally established in the early 20th century as a center of oil production, Brea was incorporated in 1917, making it one of Orange County’s oldest cities. The name “Brea,” meaning "tar" in Spanish, reflects the city's early economic reliance on petroleum. Over the decades, Brea evolved from a rugged oil town into a modern, master-planned community with a diversified economy and a high quality of life.
Today, Brea is best known for the Brea Mall, one of the region’s premier retail destinations. Managed by Simon Property Group, the Brea Mall features a wide range of upscale and mid-tier retailers, restaurants, and services, drawing shoppers from throughout north Orange County and neighboring Los Angeles County communities. The mall anchors the city’s broader Retail Corridor, which includes Brea Marketplace and Downtown Brea, a popular mixed-use district that combines dining, shopping, entertainment, and residential living.
Downtown Brea is a focal point of civic life. This revitalized area blends modern amenities with a pedestrian-friendly layout, offering movie theaters, public plazas, restaurants, art installations, and family-friendly events. Seasonal celebrations like Brea Fest, Concerts in the Park, Farmers Markets, and the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony foster a strong sense of community and local pride.
Brea places a high value on arts and culture. It was one of the first cities in Orange County to adopt a percent-for-art program, requiring developers to incorporate public art into new projects. As a result, Brea boasts over 180 pieces of public art displayed throughout the city in parks, shopping centers, civic buildings, and plazas. The City of Brea Art Gallery, located within the Brea Civic and Cultural Center, features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, student showcases, and workshops.
The Brea Civic and Cultural Center itself is a central landmark housing City Hall, the Brea Library, and community services. The adjacent Curtis Theatre, a city-operated venue, presents live performances ranging from local productions to professional touring acts, enriching Brea’s cultural offerings. These institutions reflect the city’s strong investment in civic amenities, education, and creative expression.
Brea is also home to a number of parks and recreational spaces. Craig Regional Park, shared with neighboring Fullerton, offers large picnic areas, a lake, sports facilities, and shaded walking trails. Arovista Park, Olinda Ranch Park, and the Tracks at Brea—a four-mile linear park and bike path built along a former railroad corridor—provide additional recreational opportunities and promote environmental sustainability.
Education is served by the Brea Olinda Unified School District (BOUSD), which operates several high-performing elementary schools, Brea Junior High, and Brea Olinda High School, known for its academic achievement and extracurricular excellence. Nearby institutions such as California State University, Fullerton and Fullerton College offer higher education options within a short commute.
Brea’s economy is robust and diversified. In addition to retail, the city is home to numerous corporate headquarters, financial institutions, and professional service firms. The Brea Corporate Place and Tower, located near the 57 Freeway, house major tenants in healthcare, engineering, and finance. The city’s business-friendly policies, strategic location near major highways, and well-developed infrastructure have made it a favored site for companies seeking regional offices or headquarters in North Orange County.
Brea’s real estate market reflects a blend of established suburban neighborhoods and newer developments, particularly in the Olinda Ranch and Blackstone communities, which offer scenic hillside homes with modern amenities. The city's planning efforts emphasize aesthetic design, neighborhood cohesion, and a balance of open space with residential density.
With convenient access to the 57 Freeway, State Route 90, and nearby transportation corridors, Brea is well connected to Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, and central Orange County. Despite its proximity to dense urban regions, Brea maintains a clean, orderly, and community-centered environment that attracts families, professionals, and retirees alike.
