Poway Backflow Testing, Installation & Repair

The City of Poway has implemented comprehensive standards for cross-connection control and backflow prevention to protect its public water supply. These standards are based on the California Code of Regulations, Title 17 and Title 22, and are enforced under the Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook (CCCPH) adopted by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). The City of Poway requires the installation and maintenance of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) at all service connections where potential or actual cross-connection hazards exist. The program mandates the installation of approved backflow prevention devices at service connections where a risk of contamination to the potable water system is identified. Property owners in Poway are responsible for installing, maintaining, and testing backflow prevention devices and for cooperating with the City of Poway’s inspections. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in water service disconnection and penalties. Poway’s regulations require backflow prevention assemblies in several key scenarios, including: Poway Property Irrigation Systems: Irrigation systems, especially those that use fertilizers, pesticides, or other chemicals, must be equipped with BPAs to prevent contamination of the drinking water supply. Poway Commercial and Industrial Properties: Businesses or facilities with chemical processes, pressurized systems, or other hazardous conditions must install approved BPAs to protect the potable water supply. Poway Property Fire Protection Systems: Fire suppression systems, including sprinklers and fire hydrants, must be equipped with backflow prevention devices to prevent stagnated or treated water from flowing back into the public water system. Poway 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 disconnection by the City of Poway until compliance is achieved. To ensure the safety and reliability of Poway’s water system, the following backflow testing and maintenance protocols are enforced by the City of Poway Water Division: Poway Annual Backflow Testing: All BPAs must be tested at least once a year by a certified backflow tester. This ensures that each device is functioning properly to protect the water system. Poway Post-Installation or Repair Backflow Testing: Any new installation, relocation, or repair of a backflow prevention device must be immediately tested to confirm proper operation. Poway Backflow Record Keeping: Test results must be submitted to the City of Poway through the Backflow Test Management System (BTMS) or the appropriate forms to maintain compliance. Poway Approved Backflow Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies listed by recognized agencies, such as the University of Southern California’s Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCCHR), may be used in Poway. Poway Certified Backflow Testers: Testing must be conducted by certified backflow testers who are registered with the City of Poway. Testers must also hold valid certification from the American Water Works Association (AWWA) or an equivalent certifying body. Failure to comply with Poway’s backflow testing and maintenance requirements may result in penalties or suspension of water service until the issue is rectified. Poway Water Authority Contact Info: City of Poway – Customer Services Department 13325 Civic Center Drive Poway, CA 92064 Tel: (858) 668-4401