Lemon Grove Backflow Testing, Installation & Repair

The Otay Water District (OWD), which serves the City of Lemon Grove, has established rigorous standards for cross-connection control and backflow prevention to protect its potable water system. These standards 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). The Otay Water District mandates the installation and ongoing maintenance of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) at all service connections where potential hazards to public health are identified. The program requires the installation of approved backflow prevention devices at service connections where there is a risk of contamination of the potable water supply. Property owners in Lemon Grove are responsible for the installation, testing, and maintenance of backflow prevention devices and for cooperating with inspections conducted by the Otay Water District. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in water service disconnection and penalties. The Otay Water District’s regulations require backflow prevention assemblies in the following scenarios: Lemon Grove Property Irrigation Systems: Irrigation systems that use fertilizers, pesticides, reclaimed water, or other chemicals must have backflow prevention assemblies to prevent contaminants from entering the public water supply. Lemon Grove Commercial and Industrial Properties: Facilities involving chemicals, pressurized systems, or other hazardous materials must install approved BPAs to protect the potable water system. Lemon Grove Property Fire Protection Systems: Fire suppression and sprinkler systems must be protected by backflow prevention devices to prevent treated or stagnant water from contaminating the public water supply. Lemon Grove Property Auxiliary Water Sources: Properties that use private wells, rainwater harvesting systems, or cisterns must install backflow prevention assemblies to prevent cross-contamination with the public water system. Failure to install a required backflow prevention assembly can result in water service being disconnected by Otay Water District until compliance is achieved. To ensure the safety and reliability of Lemon Grove’s drinking water, the following backflow testing and maintenance protocols are enforced by the Otay Water District: Lemon Grove Annual Backflow Testing: All BPAs must be tested annually by a certified backflow tester to ensure they are functioning properly to prevent contamination of the potable water supply. Lemon Grove 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 functioning properly. Lemon Grove Backflow Record Keeping: Test results must be submitted to the Otay Water District to maintain compliance. Results can be submitted electronically via the Backflow Test Management System (BTMS) or through the appropriate forms provided by the District. Lemon Grove Approved Backflow Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies that are approved by recognized testing agencies, such as the University of Southern California’s Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCCHR), may be used in Lemon Grove. Lemon Grove Certified Backflow Testers: Testing must be conducted by certified individuals who are registered with the Otay Water District. These testers must also hold certification from the American Water Works Association (AWWA) or another equivalent certifying organization. Failure to comply with Lemon Grove’s backflow testing and maintenance requirements may result in penalties or suspension of water service until the issue is resolved. Lemon Grove Water Authority Contact Info: Helix Water District 7811 University Avenue La Mesa, CA 91942 Tel: (619) 466-0585