Backflow & Cross Connection

The water system is designed and pressurized to deliver potable water through meters to customers. Under certain conditions, the flow of water may be reversed. This reversal is called "backflow" and creates a potential risk for contaminated water to flow back into the public water system. 

Cross-connections are actual or potential connections between a potable water supply and non-potable water plumbing. For example, water entering a property through a meter may provide drinking water by connecting to a kitchen sink, while also connecting to a pool, spa, pond or irrigation. If system pressure is maintained and the flow of water is in the proper direction, this is fine. However, in the event of backflow it may not be safe for water from these other connections to enter the distribution system.

Property owners are fully responsible for the Backflow Prevention Assembly, including installation, maintenance, replacement, annual certified testing and verification, and all associated costs. 

Backflow tests must be submitted to the District by a Certified Blackflow Tester at
http://montecito.tokaytest.com

(Testers will receive their unique login information after submitting their credentials.)

A Backflow Prevention Assembly is commonly required for conditions including but not limited to the following: 

• Fire Sprinklers
• Pumps
• Elevation changes in plumbing
• Pools/spas
• Ponds
• Wells
• Alternate water supplies
• Water storage tanks
• Agricultural Setting/farm animals
• Extensive irrigation

If you are unsure about the requirement please contact the District 

Backflow/engineering questions may also be addressed to engineering@montecitowater.com

Federal and State Laws require water purveyors to protect their system from cross connections and backflow.  Additional information can be found in the State Water Resources Control Board's Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook.

Yes, the District must be informed and teh device must be tested initially and annually by a certified tester who submits results to the District. 

Yes, testing must be conducted and submitted by a Certified Professional annually.

Backflow Tester List

Lack of compliance with a Backflow requirement may result in a water service shut off. Restoration of water service will be subject to the account holder meeting all requirements and paying any applicable fees and charges. 

Notices are mailed to the billing address on file.The District sends an initial reminder at least 30 days prior to the due date, a late notice with a 30 day extension, and a final notice is posted at the property after that. Backflow testing for your property is due in same month each year and you can schedule with your tester without the letter as long as you provide the device information for your backflow assembly.
Note:  It is important to always keep your contact information current so that the District can contact you if needed regarding your water service. 

Customers typically have 30 days to bring the device into compliance. For additional information please contact the District's engineering department.

Contact Us 

Approximately 25% or 1/4 of District customers have a backflow prevention requirement, and this number is growing. 

For additional information or assistance with Backflow requirements, please contact the District. 

Backflow/engineering questions may also be addressed to engineering@montecitowater.com