Chino Backflow Testing, Installation & Repair

1. Scope & Authority The County of San Bernardino enforces a backflow and cross‑connection control ordinance requiring all suppliers of water to prevent contamination or pollution via backflow or cross‑connections, in conformity with California’s Title 17 cross‑connection control regulations. That County ordinance (§ 33.0619) places on water suppliers the duty to use approved methods to prevent unapproved sources or substances from entering domestic water systems in compliance with Title 17 standards. The County also administers a “Certificate of Competence” for individuals inspecting, testing, or maintaining backflow prevention assemblies. The State’s Cross‑Connection Control Policy (CCCPH) and Title 17 remain overarching authority and will impose additional standards going forward (e.g. for certification of testers). 2. Responsibilities of Property Owners Installation & Maintenance: Property owners must install an approved backflow prevention device when required by the water supplier or health/authority having jurisdiction. The device must be maintained in a working condition and kept accessible. Annual Testing / Certification: After installation, and then at least annually, the device must be tested by a person holding the County’s Certificate of Competence. Additional tests are required after repair, replacement, or relocation of the device.

Repairs & Replacements: If the device fails testing, the owner must repair or replace it promptly. The device cannot be returned to service until it passes the required test. Reporting / Certification: Test results, including for installation, repairs, relocation, must be submitted (to the water supplier or County/Health Department). Only certified testers holding County certification may submit these reports or perform the testing, inspection, maintenance, or repairs (for devices under County jurisdiction). 3. Scenarios Requiring Backflow Prevention Assemblies (BPAs) The rules require or authorize BPAs in circumstances such as: Irrigation systems (landscape / sprinkler systems) Fire sprinkler or suppression systemsAuxiliary or alternate water sources (wells, cisterns) Process, commercial, or industrial systems with potential contamination risk Internal cross‑connections or plumbing configurations that cannot be eliminated or adequately controlled 4. Testing & Maintenance RequirementsMandatory Testing Events Upon initial installation or commissioning: After any repair, replacement, or relocation. At least once per year in normal use. More frequent testing may be required if there is evidence of repeat failure or risk.

Submission of Test Reports: Testing must be documented in a form acceptable to the water authority or County. Reports must be submitted within required timeframes. Devices that fail must be repaired or replaced before resuming service. All costs (testing, repair, maintenance) rest with the property owner. 5. Approved Devices & Certified TestersApproved Devices / Standards Only backflow prevention assemblies meeting recognized standards (e.g. AWWA, USC Cross‑Connection Control standards) are acceptable. The level or type of device must match the degree of hazard (e.g. reduced pressure assemblies, double check, vacuum breakers). Devices must comply with state “lead‑free” material requirements. Certified Testers / Qualifications: In San Bernardino County, testers must hold a County Certificate of Competence (passing a written and practical exam) to test, maintain, or inspect BPAs. The County offers both a written exam (covering DC, PVB, SVB, RP device types) and a hands-on practical test. The State’s Cross‑Connection Control Policy (CCCPH) now requires that backflow assembly testers and cross-connection control specialists eventually be certified via California-recognized certification organizations, and after certain dates only ANSI‑accredited certification bodies will be accepted. 6. Enforcement & PenaltiesNon‑Compliance If a property owner fails to install, test, or maintain required BPAs, or refuses inspection, the water service may be interrupted or denied. The water supplier or authority may issue notices of violation or require corrective actions. Penalties / Fees Late submission of test reports, failure to repair, or refusal to comply may incur administrative penalties, fines, or late fees. Continued non‑compliance can lead to more serious enforcement, including termination of water service until compliance is achieved.

Chino Water Authority Contact Info: Ventura County Public Works Agency

6767 Spring Road Moorpark, CA 93021 Tel: 805-378‑3000