Rancho Santa Fe Backflow Testing, Installation & Repair

The Rancho Santa Fe Water District (RSFWD) has implemented robust standards for cross-connection control and backflow prevention to safeguard its public drinking water system. These standards are based on the California Code of Regulations, Title 17 and Title 22, and are enforced under the Cross-Connection Control Program adopted by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Rancho Santa Fe Water District mandates the installation and maintenance of approved backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) at all service connections where there is potential for cross-contamination of the potable water supply. The program requires property owners in Rancho Santa Fe to install backflow prevention devices at service connections where cross-connection hazards are identified. Property owners in Rancho Santa Fe are obligated to install, maintain, and test their backflow prevention devices in compliance with RSFWD regulations. Non-compliance can lead to water service interruption and financial penalties. Rancho Santa Fe Water District’s regulations specify the installation of BPAs in several critical scenarios, including: Rancho Santa Fe Property Irrigation Systems: Irrigation systems, particularly those utilizing fertilizers, pesticides, or chemicals, require backflow protection to prevent contamination of the public water supply. Rancho Santa Fe Commercial and Industrial Properties: Properties involved in chemical processing, pressurized systems, or industrial uses are required to install appropriate backflow prevention assemblies to protect the potable water system. Rancho Santa Fe Property Fire Protection Systems: Fire sprinkler and fire suppression systems are potential sources of contamination, and must be equipped with backflow prevention devices to avoid contamination of the drinking water.

Rancho Santa Fe Property Auxiliary Water Sources: Properties that use alternative water sources such as 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 may result in water service termination by the Rancho Santa Fe Water District until the property comes into compliance.

To ensure the continued safety of the water system, Rancho Santa Fe Water District mandates the following backflow testing and maintenance protocols: Rancho Santa Fe Annual Backflow Testing: All BPAs must be tested annually by a certified backflow tester. The testing verifies that the assembly is functioning correctly and protects the water supply. Rancho Santa Fe Post-Installation or Repair Backflow Testing: Any new installation, relocation, or repair of a backflow prevention device requires immediate testing to confirm it is operating properly. Rancho Santa Fe Backflow Record Keeping: Test results must be submitted to the Rancho Santa Fe Water District to maintain compliance records. These results should be submitted via RSFWD's designated backflow test management system. Rancho Santa Fe Approved Backflow Devices: Only backflow prevention assemblies listed 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 Rancho Santa Fe. Rancho Santa Fe Certified Backflow Testers: Testing must be conducted by certified testers who are registered with Rancho Santa Fe Water District. Testers must also hold valid certification from the American Water Works Association (AWWA) or an equivalent agency. Failure to comply with Rancho Santa Fe’s backflow testing and reporting requirements may result in penalties or suspension of water service until compliance is achieved. Rancho Santa Fe Water Authority Contact Info: Santa Fe Irrigation District (SFID) 5920 Linea del Cielo Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 Tel: (858) 756-2424