Annual Testing of Backflow Prevention Assembly

The City of Davis requires all backflow devices be tested annually by a certified backflow prevention tester and be repaired if necessary (City of Davis Ordinance No. 1738 and the California Administrative Code, Title 17). This annual testing helps eliminate actual or potential cross connections into public water supplies. 

Each year, notice letters are sent to customers with backflow prevention assembly to notify them of the testing deadline and how to work with a certified tester to submit the Test and Maintenance Report. 

Below, please find some Backflow Testing Frequently Asked Questions.

I received a letter that I am required to test my backflow prevention assembly, but I can only have it tested by a "certified tester." Where can I find that list? 

In Davis, only certified backflow assembly testers can test the assembly and submit the Test and Maintenance Report to the City. A list of certified testers is provided on this website below (follow the link to the PDF):

I received a letter that I am required to test my backflow prevention assembly, but I don't know why I've received this letter // no longer have the assembly on my property // there's an error in the letter. What do I do?

If you no longer have the assembly on your property, if you do not know why you received the letter regarding backflow assembly testing, or you would like to notify the City of an error in the letter, please contact Mike Holden, Water Distribution Programs Supervisor, with the City of Davis Public Works Utilities & Operations Department at 530-757-5686 or pwweb@cityofdavis.org. 

I've had my backflow assembly tested and I've been told it's not functioning properly. What do I do?

Please repair or replace the assembly as necessary (based on the findings of the certified tester) and have the assembly re-tested. 

I've had my backflow assembly tested and the letter says the tester needs to submit a Test and Maintenance Report to the City. Where is this report on the website and where should it be sent?

The form required for reporting is included as a PDF in the link below. Be sure to keep a copy of the form for yourself, and mail the form to:
City of Davis Public Works Utilities & Operations Department
Attn: Backflow 
1717 Fifth Street
Davis, CA 95616

I would like to be added to the list of Certified Backflow Testers. How do I submit my application to the City? What information do you need? Is there a fee to become a Certified Backflow Tester?

The tester application is included below in the linked PDF form. Once you have filled out the application, please take it to the Community Development and Sustainability Department front counter at City Hall, 23 Russell Blvd. (between 8:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday). There is a fee of $247.00 per tester application - please note: credit cards are not accepted for payment. You are required to hold a City of Davis Business License in addition to submitting the application for approval. If you have questions regarding the Certified Tester application process, please contact Public Works Engineering & Transportation permitting staff at 530-747-5846 or PW-Permits@cityofdavis.org.  

If you have a question that is not included above, please contact the City of Davis Public Works Utilities & Operations at 530-757-5686 or pwweb@cityofdavis.org.