Alpine Backflow Testing, Installation & Repair

The Helix Water District (HWD), which serves Alpine, has established comprehensive standards for cross-connection control and backflow prevention to protect its potable water system. These regulations are based on the California Code of Regulations, Title 17 and Title 22, as well as the Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook (CCCPH) adopted by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). HWD mandates the installation and ongoing maintenance of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) at service connections where potential hazards to public health are identified. The program mandates the installation of backflow prevention devices at service connections where there is a risk of contamination to the public water supply. Property owners in Alpine are responsible for installing, testing, and maintaining backflow prevention devices, and for cooperating with inspections conducted by the Helix Water District. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to water service disconnection and financial penalties. The Helix Water District’s backflow regulations require BPAs in the following situations: Alpine Property Irrigation Systems: Irrigation systems that use fertilizers, pesticides, reclaimed water, or other chemicals must have backflow prevention assemblies to prevent contamination of the potable water supply.

Alpine Commercial and Industrial Properties: Facilities involving hazardous materials, chemicals, or pressurized systems must install approved BPAs to protect the public water system.

Alpine Property Fire Protection Systems: Fire suppression systems, including sprinklers and hydrants, must be equipped with backflow prevention devices to ensure that stagnant or treated water does not flow back into the drinking water supply.

Alpine Property Auxiliary Water Sources: Properties using private wells, cisterns, or rainwater harvesting systems must install backflow prevention assemblies to prevent cross-contamination with the public water supply.

Failure to install a required backflow prevention assembly can result in water service being disconnected by the Helix Water District until compliance is achieved. To ensure the continued safety and reliability of Alpine’s drinking water, the following backflow testing and maintenance protocols are enforced by the Helix Water District: Alpine Annual Backflow Testing: All backflow prevention assemblies must be tested annually by a certified backflow tester to ensure they are functioning correctly and protecting the potable water system.

Alpine Post-Installation or Repair Backflow Testing: Any new installation, relocation, or repair of a backflow prevention device must be immediately tested to confirm the device is working properly. Alpine Backflow Record Keeping: Test results must be submitted to the Helix Water District for compliance tracking. These results can be submitted electronically via the Backflow Test Management System (BTMS) or through the appropriate forms provided by the District. Alpine Approved Backflow Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies approved by recognized testing agencies, such as the University of Southern California’s Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCCHR), are permitted for use in Alpine. Alpine Certified Backflow Testers: Testing must be performed by certified backflow testers who are registered with the Helix Water District. These testers must hold certification from the American Water Works Association (AWWA) or an equivalent certifying body.

Failure to comply with Alpine’s backflow testing and maintenance requirements may result in penalties or suspension of water service until compliance is achieved. Alpine Water Authority Contact Info: Padre Dam Municipal Water District 9300 Fanita Parkway Santee, CA 92071 Tel: (619) 448-3111