Cross Connection & Backflow Prevention

backflow@cityoftracy.org or 209-831-6330

Water distributions systems are designed so that water flows in one direction from the treatment plant to the customer. Backflow is the undesired reverse flow of liquids in a water service line, such as flow from an irrigation line into a building’s domestic drinking water line.

Federal and State laws require water purveyors to protect community water systems from contamination due to cross-connections and backflows into the system. Tracy Utilities monitors over 2,000 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 the City of Tracy Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program, which requires the use of backflow prevention devices at certain types of facilities to prevent contamination of the water supply. Backflows ensure that no contaminants of any kind (chemicals, debris, recycled water, etc.) enter the potable water system.

 Backflow assemblies are owned by each customer and regulated by the State Water Resource Control Board (SWRCB) through the water utility TCM 11.04 While it is primarily business customers who require these devices, some residential properties need them as well.

Types of Backflow Devices

Reduced Pressure Principal Assembly

A reduced pressure principal (RP) assembly offers sophisticated protection against back siphonage and back pressure in domestic water service lines. The RP device has a relief valve located between two check valves. The relief valve will discharge water should either check valve fail. The RP device requires annual testing.

Double-Check Detector Backflow Prevention Assembly

A double-check detector backflow prevention assembly (DCDA) is used on main fire service lines. A DCDA consists of two backflow devices, one on the main line and the other on a bypass line. The bypass line device contains a small meter for detecting water use. All fire service backflow devices are required to be tested annually to ensure proper working order.

Additional information on City Standard can be obtained through the City’s Engineering Division “Documents”.

Annual Testing

The City requires annual testing of backflow prevention devices installed on water service lines for domestic use, irrigation, and fire service lines.

The City requires all backflows to be tested by June 30 each year. A notice is sent to the property owner or manager if test results are not received or a device has failed after June 30. The notice includes test report due dates and a list of backflow assemblies with serial numbers and locations.

Only City of Tracy-approved backflow testers are allowed to test in City service area. Please refer to our list of approvedbackflow testers to make an appointment to have your backflow tested.

Becoming a City of Tracy-Approved Backflow Tester

To be included on the City’s approved backflow testers directory, each tester must have a valid City business license, backflow tester certificate, and test kit calibration certificates annually. Testers are required to have their test gauge equipment calibrated annually and submit proof of calibration. Approved testers must be certified by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), the Northern California Backflow Prevention Association (NCBPA), or a similar certification program approved by the City.

Complete form (link to electronic form) and email all tester cards and calebaration certifications to backflow@cityoftracy.org.

Submitting a Test Result

The City no longer accepts emailed or mailed test results. All results must be submitted online by an approved tester. 

If a tester already has an account, they must visit the homepage and log in to update information on each device. 

For testers who are not approved must complete form and email all tester cards and calebaration certifications to backflow@cityoftracy.org

FAQ
How can I get my backflow preventers tested for compliance?

Owners must contact a City approvedCertified Tester to set up a time to test the backflow preventers at the owner’s expense. This must be done annually by June 30 on all backflow prevention assemblies.

Are backflow preventers required by law?

Yes, backflow preventers are required on all commercial buildings with a potential cross-connection, according to Tracy Municipal Code TCM 11.04 and effective July 1, 2024 California Health and Safety Codes 116275 (h), 116407, 116555.5.

Why did I receive a letter stating that I need to install a backflow assembly?

An approved backflow assembly is required to be installed at the service connection to protect from potential backflow conditions.

To install a backflow prevention device, contact a licensed contractor. If required, obtain an appropriate building permit. Once installation is complete, contact a tester on the City’s approved list if they were not the initial installer.

I received a notice of non-compliance that stated I didn't have my backflow tested, repaired, or installed. What do I do?

If you had the assembly tested, repaired, or installed, contact your tester or installer to ensure the test report was submitted on the City’s portal.

If you did not have the assembly tested, repaired, or installed, please do so to prevent an interruption in your water services.

What happens if I do not comply with the requirements?

Water services may be terminated, and you may be fined or penalized.