Backflow devices are an integral part of the City’s Cross Connection Control Program. They help to ensure that no contaminants of any kind (chemicals, debris, reclaimed water, etc.) enter the potable water system.

Backflow devices are owned by the customer and regulated by the State through the City of Palo Alto.

The State of California Department of Health Services provides regulations for the City and our customers through California Code of Regulations, Title 17. These regulations spell out the types of services that require backflow devices.

Once backflow devices are installed, the devices must be tested on an annual basis and test results must be submitted to the City. Your City approved tester will place a serialized, color-coded, metal tag on your device that will be changed out each year.

The City will only accept test reports from testers who have registered with the City of Palo Alto and have provided the Cross Connection Control Program with copies of their State certification and calibration reports. The list of registered testers may be found here.

Testers wishing to register with the City may contact the Cross Connection Control Program office at 650-496-5926 or via e-mail at melissa.smart@cityofpaloalto.org .

All tests results must be submitted on a City of Palo Alto test form which can be downloaded here. Hardcopy triplicate forms may be obtained directly from the program office.

If you have any questions about the backflow prevention device survey, testing, or test reporting, please contact the City's Cross-Connection Control Office at (650) 496-5926.

Our Engineering Department can assist customers in finding the proper location for a device. They can be reached at 650-566-4511. The City’s Backflow Standard can be found here.