The City of Newport Beach has established guidelines for backflow prevention and cross-connection control to protect the public water supply.
Newport Beach 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 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.
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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 Newport Beach 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.
The City of Newport Beach has adopted rigorous standards for cross-connection and backflow prevention to protect its potable water system. Through enforcement of its municipal code and collaboration with the Orange County Health Care Agency, the city ensures public health and water safety. Property owners are obligated to install, test, and maintain backflow devices and cooperate with inspections. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, including the interruption of water service.
These regulations are based on the California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 17 and enforced by the City of Newport Beach Municipal Code.
Newport Beach 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 Plumbing and Building Code as well as California's State Building Standards.
Newport Beach 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 the City of Newport Beach – Utilities Department. 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 Newport Beach property owner's responsibilities. 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 the City of Newport Beach – Utilities Department. Backflow prevention devices that are beyond repair or obsolete may need to be completely replaced.
Failing to comply with the City of Newport Beach backflow 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.
The City of Newport Beach 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: To prevent the reverse flow of water that could introduce pollutants or contaminants into the public water system.
- Cross-Connection Control: To eliminate or safeguard against connections between potable and non-potable water systems, ensuring the safety of drinking water.
Newport Beach requires the installation of approved backflow prevention devices at locations where there is a potential risk of contamination. These devices must be installed at or near the property line or immediately outside the building being served, before the first branch line leading off of the service line.
Newport Beach's water system is managed by the City's Public Works Department, which enforces backflow prevention measures in accordance with:
- Newport Beach Municipal Code: Outlines the requirements for building regulations, including backflow prevention.
- Title 17, California Code of Regulations: Defines cross-connection control program responsibilities for public water systems.
Newport Beach regulations require the installation of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) to protect the water supply. Backflow prevention assemblies are required in various scenarios, including:
- Newport Beach Property Irrigation Systems: To prevent contaminants from entering the potable water supply through irrigation lines.
- Newport Beach 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.
- Newport Beach Property Fire Protection Systems: To prevent stagnant water from fire suppression systems from flowing back into the drinking water supply.
- Newport Beach Property Auxiliary Water Sources: Properties with alternative water sources like wells or cisterns must install backflow prevention devices to prevent cross-contamination.
Property owners are responsible for installing backflow prevention assemblies as required by the city's regulations or or OCHCA. Installations must adhere to the city's standards, including specific device types and installation procedures.
Failure to install the required backflow prevention assemblies in compliance with Newport Beach regulations and requirements may result in the discontinuation of 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 Newport Beach:
- Annual Backflow Testing: Backflow prevention assemblies must be tested at least annually to ensure proper operation.
- Post-Installation or Repair Backflow Testing: Any new installation, relocation, or repair of a backflow device requires immediate testing to confirm correct operation.
- Backflow Test Record Keeping: Test results must be submitted to the appropriate regulatory agency to maintain compliance records.
- Newport Beach Certified Backflow Testers: Tests must be conducted by individuals certified by recognized organizations, such as the American Water Works Association (AWWA) California-Nevada Section or the Orange County Health Care Agency.
- Approved Backflow Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies listed by recognized testing agencies are permitted. The USC-FCCCHR provides a comprehensive list of approved devices.
Failure to conduct required backflow testing for Newport Beach properties may lead to water service termination until the device is tested and found compliant.
The City of Newport Beach requires the installation of specific backflow prevention devices based on the level of hazard associated with the water use:
- Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Device (RP): Required for all non-residential connections to protect against high hazards.
- Double Check Valve Assembly (DC): Required for all non-residential fire suppression system connections, upgrades, and new installations.
- Air Gap Separation (AG): May be approved as a higher level of protection upon prior written approval from the City.These devices must be approved by the City and installed in accordance with the California Administrative Code Title 17, Section 7603.
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.
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 Newport Beach has the following requirements for testing, certification, and documentation of backflow prevention assemblies:
- Annual Backflow Testing: Backflow prevention assemblies must be tested at least annually to ensure proper operation.
- Certified Backflow Testers: Tests must be conducted by individuals certified by recognized organizations, such as the American Water Works Association (AWWA) California-Nevada Section or the Orange County Health Care Agency.
- Backflow Documentation: Test results should be submitted to the appropriate city department or agency overseeing water quality.
- Failure to Test: Failure to conduct required testing may lead to water service termination until the device is tested and found compliant.
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Newport Beach 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:
- Install City-approved backflow devices when directed by the City.
- Arrange for annual backflow testing and maintain detailed records of compliance.
- Promptly address device failures or test result deficiencies.
- Allow site access for inspections and water system evaluations.
- Understand that non-compliance may result in disconnection of water services or fines.
The City of Newport Beach conducts thorough cross-connection inspections to monitor potential risks in both residential and commercial settings. These inspections are essential for maintaining water safety and preventing the backflow of contaminants into the public supply.
Below are the backflow inspection and installation guidelines for the City of Newport Beach:
Purpose of Inspections:
- Identify existing or potential cross-connections.
- Confirm that proper backflow prevention assemblies are installed.
- Evaluate whether device types match the hazard level.
- Enforce compliance where violations exist.
When Inspections Occur:
- During new construction, remodeling, or plumbing system upgrades.
- When a new service connection is initiated for commercial or industrial properties.
- Periodically, based on a property's risk profile or device testing history.
- In response to complaints or observed irregularities in water system behavior.
Inspection Process:
1. Advance Notice: Property owners are informed by the City before the inspection.
2. Onsite Visit: A certified Cross-Connection Specialist inspects the plumbing and device setup.
3. Hazard Assessment: The inspector evaluates system complexity and potential contamination risks.
4. Reporting: A written inspection report is issued with required actions or corrections.
5. Follow-Up: Re-inspections are scheduled for any deficiencies or outstanding issues.
Consequences for Non-Compliance:
- Water service may be suspended or disconnected.
- Re-inspection or administrative fees may be applied.
- Continued violations may result in legal penalties per the city code.
The City of Newport Beach 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: Determined by the private certified tester. These fees are separate from any City administrative or permit charges.
- Re-inspection or Reconnection Fees: May apply if devices fail, are overdue for testing, or service is disconnected due to non-compliance.
The City of Newport Beach's cross-connection and backflow regulations are built upon a combination of local municipal code, state plumbing regulations, and county public health enforcement. These include:
- Newport Beach Municipal Code – Chapter 14.10: Outlines the requirements for backflow prevention and cross-connection control.
- California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5 of the California Code of Regulations): Dictates backflow device installation, hazard classification, and device specifications.
- Title 17, California Code of Regulations: Defines cross-connection control program responsibilities for public water systems.
- USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control: The City relies on USC’s list of approved backflow prevention assemblies and testing protocols.
- AWWA Manual M14: Referenced for installation practices, hazard assessments, and maintenance recommendations.
For more information or assistance, Newport Beach property owners can contact:
City of Newport Beach – Utilities Department
- Phone: (949) 644-3309
- Website: Newport Beach Annual Backflow Testing
For further guidance or assistance with backflow prevention compliance, contact the City of Newport Beach Utilities Department for resources and support.
Here is an outline of special circumstances pertaining to backflow assembly installation, testing and repair which require special attention:
- Emergency Backflow Events: In the event of a suspected backflow or contamination issue, property owners should immediately contact the Public Works Department for assistance.
- Irrigation Systems: Properties with irrigation systems are required to have backflow prevention devices to prevent contamination from fertilizers or pesticides.
- Multi-Family and Commercial Properties: These properties may have more complex water systems and could be subject to more frequent inspections and advanced backflow prevention requirements.
Newport Beach, located along the picturesque coastline of Orange County, is one of the most affluent and iconic seaside communities in the United States. Renowned for its luxury homes, yachting lifestyle, vibrant harbor, and high-end commerce, Newport Beach embodies the pinnacle of Southern California coastal living. With a population of approximately 85,000, the city serves as both a premier residential enclave and an elite destination for visitors, professionals, and investors from around the world.
Incorporated in 1906, Newport Beach developed from a modest shipping and fishing village into an internationally recognized resort and residential city. At the heart of its identity is Newport Harbor—one of the largest recreational boat harbors in the United States—lined with waterfront estates, yacht clubs, marinas, and fine dining establishments. The harbor is the stage for iconic events such as the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, the Newport to Ensenada Yacht Race, and an active calendar of regattas and waterfront festivals.
Newport Beach encompasses a collection of distinct and prestigious neighborhoods, each with its own character and appeal. Balboa Peninsula offers oceanfront living, classic beach cottages, and the historic Balboa Pavilion and Fun Zone. Balboa Island, connected to the mainland by ferry and bridge, features charming cottages, boutiques, and bayfront paths. Corona del Mar (“Crown of the Sea”) is known for its clifftop homes, tide pools, and the stunning Little Corona Beach. Newport Coast, a master-planned luxury development, offers estate homes with panoramic ocean views and gated privacy, while Eastbluff, Big Canyon, and Harbor View are among the city’s most exclusive hillside and golf-adjacent communities.
The city’s economy is driven by a mix of tourism, finance, real estate, and healthcare. Fashion Island, an open-air luxury shopping destination, anchors the Newport Center business district, home to top law firms, financial institutions, and corporate headquarters. Nearby, Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian serves as a major regional healthcare center and one of the city’s largest employers, offering cutting-edge medical services and research facilities.
Education in Newport Beach is highly regarded, with public schools served by the Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD). Institutions such as Corona del Mar High School and Newport Harbor High School are consistently ranked among the top schools in the region. The city is also home to prestigious private schools including Sage Hill School, Harbor Day School, and Carden Hall. Higher education access is enhanced by proximity to University of California, Irvine (UCI), Orange Coast College, and Vanguard University.
Newport Beach offers unparalleled recreational opportunities. The Wedge, a world-famous surf spot at the eastern tip of the Balboa Peninsula, draws surfers and spectators alike. Crystal Cove State Park, with over 3 miles of preserved coastline, hiking trails, and historic beach cottages, offers residents a rare connection to undeveloped California shorelines. The city's extensive network of bike paths, hiking trails, and nature preserves—including Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve—promotes outdoor living and environmental stewardship.
Civic life in Newport Beach is marked by sophistication and high engagement. Newport Beach City Hall, located near Civic Center Park and the Newport Beach Public Library, reflects contemporary architectural excellence and houses a wide range of municipal services. The Civic Center Park Sculpture Garden, with rotating exhibitions of public art, exemplifies the city’s commitment to cultural enrichment. Local organizations such as the Environmental Nature Center, Newport Beach Film Festival, and Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) contribute to a vibrant intellectual and artistic climate.
Transportation is supported by excellent infrastructure. In addition to access via Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Interstate 405, the city is minutes from John Wayne Airport (SNA) and offers convenient connections to Los Angeles and San Diego. The harbor itself serves as a waterway for private vessels, ferries, and harbor cruises.
Governance in Newport Beach reflects its affluent and highly informed electorate. The city places a strong emphasis on public safety, coastal management, financial prudence, and quality of life. Environmental sustainability is a growing focus, with attention paid to sea-level rise mitigation, habitat protection, and responsible development along the coastline.
Today, Newport Beach represents the epitome of coastal luxury—where ocean views meet civic excellence, and a relaxed beach culture blends with global sophistication. Whether sailing through the harbor, shopping at designer boutiques, attending a film premiere, or enjoying a quiet sunset from a seaside bluff, life in Newport Beach is defined by elegance, opportunity, and enduring appeal.
Municipal Office Contact Info:
Newport Beach City Hall
Address: 100 Civic Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Phone: (949) 644-3309