Backflow Testing for Irrigation Systems

The following is a list of frequently asked questions regarding cross-connection and BACKFLOW prevention on irrigation systems. This information is taken from the “Cross Connection Control And BACKFLOW Prevention Manual”, Indiana Department of Environmental Management and applies to the following cities/towns:

Crown Point
Dyer
Munster
Merrillville
Schererville
Highland
St. John

What is BACKFLOW?
The flow of contaminants into the public water supply distribution system from a source other than the public water supply.

Why is BACKFLOW prevention required?
No plumbing fixture, device, or construction shall be installed or maintained or shall be connected to any domestic water supply, when such installation or connection may provide a possibility of polluting such water supply or may provide a cross connection between a distributing system of water for drinking and domestic purposes and water which may become contaminated by such plumbing fixture, devices or construction unless there is provided and approved BACKFLOW prevention device.

Who governs the regulations?
The State of Indiana governs cross connection control and BACKFLOW prevention through the Indiana Administrative Code(Regulations).

Why am I required to have a BACKFLOW device with my irrigation system?
Per 327 IAC 8-10-6: Customers shall construct an air gap or install a reduced pressure (RP) principle backflow preventer or pressure type vacuum breaker (PVB) on the water line connecting the public water supply to any land irrigation facility buried below ground which has a sprinkling outlet located less than six (6) inches above grade, and which is constructed after July 19, 1985.

How often must my BACKFLOW device be tested?
Every year prior to the START-UP of any existing lawn irrigation system, the property owner shall provide a BACKFLOW test in compliance with requirements of this chapter and in compliance with all state CROSS-CONNECTION regulations. Documentation of this testing must be submitted to the proper city within (10) days of testing.

Who can test my BACKFLOW?
Per 327 IAC 8-10-9: All testers are required to be certified and registered with the State of Indiana and licensed as a BACKFLOW tester with the cities mentioned above.

What are the reporting procedures?
Per 327 IAC 8-10-9: The inspector shall report to the supplier of water, the customer and, if requested, the Commissioner, on a form provided by the Commissioner, The results of inspections or tests conducted pursuant to 327 IAC 8-10-8 on air gap, reduced pressure principle backflow preventers, doublecheck valve assemblies, and pressure type vacuum breakers. Reports shall be submitted to the supplier of water and the customer within ten (10) days of the inspection test.