Backflow Testing

Annual Testing

The District requires annual testing of backflow prevention devices installed on water service lines for domestic use, irrigation, and fire sprinklers. Backflow devices on fire service lines are also required to have meters that are inspected regularly to ensure proper working order. See Backflow/Cross Connection Requirements for more information.

The District sends notices to customers when their backflow prevention devices are due for testing. The notice includes test report due dates and a list of backflow assemblies with serial numbers and locations.

Only District-approved backflow testers can test in our service area. Please refer to the District's list of approved backflow testers(PDF, 80KB) to make an appointment to have your backflow device tested. District employees do not do the testing; you must hire from the approved list.

Federal and State laws require water purveyors to protect community water systems from contamination due to cross-connections and backflows into the system. DSRSD monitors thousands of backflows each year to ensure the safety and welfare of our customers and the quality of our drinking water. A vital link in this effort is DSRSD's Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Programs.

If an assembly is found damaged, leaking, or fails testing, it must be repaired and retested without delay to ensure the safety of the water system and public health.

Replacement of a backflow device requires a Limited Construction Permit. Permits must be applied for online using our Citizen Self Service site, and a DSRSD Construction Inspector must be present during the replacement work. More information can be found on our Permits & Plan Reviews page.

If you have any questions or concerns, send an email to backflowprevention@dsrsd.com

New Backflow Device Test Reports

For testers' use, a blank DSRSD test report form(PDF, 442KB) is available to download for any new backflow prevention device installations. For all existing backflow devices, the Tokay test entry website must be used to submit tests.

Becoming a District-Approved Backflow Tester

The District provides customers with a list of approved backflow testers(PDF, 80KB). Testers are required to enter tests electronically and can access the database through the DSRSD Tokay Test Entry Website.

To be included on the District’s approved backflow testers list, each tester must turn in their application(PDF, 678KB), backflow tester wall certificate, wallet card, and test kit calibration certificates annually. If you are a new tester in our service area, you must attend an online training session to use Tokay. Please contact us at BackflowPrevention@dsrsd.com to request training.

Testers are required to have their test gauge equipment calibrated annually and submit proof of calibration with their application form. Approved testers must be certified by AWWA, NCBPA, or a similar certification program that is approved by the District.