Backflow / Cross-Connection Control Program

A cross connection is when the drinking water supply line is connected to a non-potable substance. (Examples: industrial equipment lines or a garden hose filling a spa).

Certain conditions may cause water in the drinking water distribution system to reverse flow. (Examples: lower system pressure from fire-fighting activities or broken water mains) and bring non-potable substances back into the public drinking water supply.

Backflow Assemblies are devices that are installed at the facility's water service connections and prevent non-potable substances from flowing back into the drinking water supply.

To ensure that backflow assemblies are protecting public health, Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations Section 7605, and the Elk Grove Water District  Ordinance 10.17.18.01: Backflow/Cross Connection Control, require the facility owner and / or operator to have their facility backflow assemblies tested when they are first installed and at least annually thereafter. Assemblies may require more frequent testing as determined by EGWD.

Contact a certified backflow tester from the Certified Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester list and have them test all of the backflow assemblies listed on the notice.

Once they have tested your assemblies, the tester will put a green colored test tag on your backflow devices. The tag can be purchased at the Elk Grove Water District Administration Building at 9257 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove, Ca 95624 and the cost is $25/tag. This tag shows you, and EGWD, that your assemblies passed the field test.

When finished, the tester will submit the test data to EGWD. Ask the tester to send you a copy of the test report. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the owner and/or operator for making sure EGWD receives the test reports by the due date.

You received this type of notice because one or more of your facility's backflow devices didn't pass field testing, and you are required to repair the defect. In some cases, the assembly must be replaced due to age, or severity of damage. Once the assembly has been repaired, or replaced, the assembly must be retested by a certified tester to show it's in working order. Testing requirements are answered in question 5 (above).

You received this type of notice because your facility is required to have an approved backflow device installed at the water service connection.

• Review the installation letter for the list of EGWD requirements.
• Contact EGWD to verify if there are additional requirements before you start installation (e.g. scheduling a site visit with the cross-connection control specialist).
• Ensure that the backflow device you plan on using is listed on the USC Approved Device List.
• Obtain the appropriate building permit from the City of Elk Grove building department.
• Once the device has been installed, the assembly must be tested by a certified tester to show it's in working order. Question 5 (above) lists the testing requirements.

If you are the current owner and/or operator, send the new information to [email protected] and be sure to include the site address, facility / business name, your name as the owner, and contact information.

If you are NOT the current owner and/or operator, send the site address listed in the notice to [email protected] and explain why you are not the responsible party (example: sold property).

If you had the assemblies tested, repaired or installed, contact your backflow tester and verify the test report was sent to EGWD. If you have not had your assemblies tested, repaired or installed, you need to do so. Please refer to Questions 5 through 7 for details.

Your water service may be discontinued for non-compliance.