FAQs
Backflow Prevention
Backflow into a public water system can pollute or contaminate the potable water in that system (i.e., backflow into a public water system can make the water in that system unusable or unsafe to drink). Water suppliers have a responsibility to provide water that is usable and safe to drink under all foreseeable circumstances.
Backflow prevention assemblies have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are susceptible to wear and failure. Yearly testing ensures they are functioning properly and protecting the City of Sandy’s public water system.
Residential customers are only required to install a backflow preventer if there is a potential cross connection hazard. It is the customer’s responsibility to notify us if an irrigation system or pool is installed. Backflow requirements vary for commercial/industrial customers based on the business’s water use. Sandy’s Water Department staff reviews newly established commercial/industrial water accounts to assess the degree of backflow hazard and notifies businesses about backflow requirements.
As long as the irrigation system is connected to your plumbing system, the potential for backflow exists, and you must comply with all backflow requirements, including having it tested each year. To eliminate these backflow requirements, the irrigation system must be physically disconnected from your plumbing system. If your irrigation system is served by the same water service that serves your home or business, you can remove the backflow assembly and have the irrigation system cut and capped.
A plumbing permit is required to remove any backflow prevention assemblies, and the owner will need to have the city perform an inspection in order to have the backflow officially removed from the city records.
