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1. Why is backflow prevention important?

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 and consumers have a responsibility to provide water that is usable and safe to drink under all foreseeable circumstances.

2. I received a letter saying I need to install a backflow preventer. How do I do that?

The City of Ridgefield Public Works Department recommends contacting a licensed plumber.

3. I am a renter. Why did I receive a letter about the backflow preventer?

If you are renting a home or commercial space, your landlord or property management company would be responsible for obtaining a test.

4. I received a letter to test my backflow preventer at a home/property I sold previously. How do I update my information?

First, notify the Cross-Connection Program Coordinator, Lisa Blake, at 360-857-5010. Then, contact Utility Services to ensure your utility billing account is updated at 360-887-3557.

5. Why do backflow preventers have to be tested each year?

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 public water system. It is required to protect the public water supply per WAC 246-290-490 and RMC 13.55.010.

6. Is there a general compliance schedule and process?

Generally, about 45 days prior to the test due date, the Public Works Department sends letters to all customers who are required to test their backflow assembly devices.

7. Do backflow testers work for the City of Ridgefield?

No. Backflow testers are independent private contractors. The City of Ridgefield does not install or test backflow assemblies. The State of Washington requires backflow tests to be performed by Certified Backflow Testers.

Review a list of City Approved and Certified Backflow Testers linked at the top of this page. This list is updated each year and requires testers to provide current year certifications. Tests performed and submitted by someone not on the city's approved and certified backflow testers list will be rejected and considered invalid until that vendor provides the city with their current year state/city approved credentials.

8. How do I know if I need to install a backflow preventer?

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. Ridgefield's staff reviews newly established commercial/industrial water accounts to assess the degree of backflow hazard and notifies businesses about backflow requirements.

9. I don’t use my irrigation system. Do I still have to test and maintain my backflow preventer?

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 and removed from your plumbing system. Contact a certified backflow tester to schedule the removal and notification to the Cross-Connection Coordinator 360-857-5010. Public Works will schedule an inspection to confirm the backflow assembly has been removed and capped off.