Backflow

Backflow can occur when water pressure in the distribution system drops or when unprotected water supply lines are attached to a container or pipe that has substances not suitable for drinking. Backflow can affect the flow inside water lines, resulting in contamination of customers’ drinking water.

To prevent backflow, homes and businesses have what is called a backflow prevention assembly. This equipment stops water from backflowing into the distribution system from potential contamination sources such as pools, irrigation systems, or fire sprinkler systems. 

All backflow prevention assemblies are inspected and tested upon initial installation. Owners must have them tested annually, UNLESS installed on a residential irrigation system that does not apply or dispose chemical feeds. Those residential backflow prevention assemblies must be tested at least every three years.

Backflow Applications & Resources

Forms can be submitted using our online contact form or brought to our Administration building at 235 Government Center Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403.

Detail Drawings

Construction Sites

In accordance with CFPUA’s cross connection control and backflow prevention ordinance and Rules Governing Public Water Systems, we require a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly (RP) for water service on construction sites.

In order for a contractor to receive backflow approval at a construction site, an RP approved by the USC Foundation or ASSE for Cross Connection Control shall be accepted and must be installed on the service. This applies to all construction sites, commercial and residential. When the construction concludes, the contractor will be allowed to replace the RP with other approved backflow prevention appropriate to the hazard level.

For information contact the CFPUA Cross Connection Control Office at 910-332-6558 or via our online contact form.

Note: The temporary RP does not need to match the water service size. An assembly 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch smaller is acceptable. This installation requires a CFPUA permit and inspection and a New Hanover County Plumbing Permit.