Backflow Rules & Regulations Update

The District has updated Appendix A & B of the Rules & Regulations to revise the Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control Program requirements. The updated regulations will go into effect and will be available to the public on May 1st, 2025, at www.coppermetro.org/rules-regulations(see Appendix B).

Key Updates to Cross-Connection Control Regulations

Annual Backflow Test Reporting Deadlines

• July 1st – Irrigation system assemblies
• September 1st – All other system assemblies

Backflow assemblies for systems that are removed and/or decommissioned seasonally must be tested immediately upon reinstallation or activation.
Failure to submit reports by the above deadlines will result in a violation as outlined below. Continued failure to submit reports will result in suspension of water service on December 1st until reports are received. Reports shall be submitted to backflow@coppermetro.org.

Failed Tests & Cross-Connection Reporting

•  The District must be notified within 10 days of any failed backflow test or uncontrolled cross-connection.

Repair & Replacement Deadlines

• Faulty backflow assemblies must be repaired or replaced within 60 days. 
• If not corrected within 120 days, water service will be suspended.

Violations & Penalties

Non-compliance with Appendix B may result in monthly penalty fees of $1000 per violation (See Appendix A for penalties). Continued failure to meet deadlines will result in suspension of water service.

Violations include:

• Failure to install a required backflow assembly. 
• Failure to test and submit annual testing reports by the deadlines (July 1st for Irrigation and September 1st for all other assemblies)
• Failure to notify the District of a failed test or cross-connection within 10 days.
• Failure to repair or replace a faulty backflow assembly within 60 days. If not corrected within 120 days, service will be discontinued.

The District reserves the right to suspend service if a backflow assembly is defective, removed, or bypassed, or if unprotected cross-connections exist. Service will resume only after compliance is restored.