Backflow Prevention Program

Protecting the public drinking water system from harmful contaminates is a shared responsibility. The City's Backflow Prevention Program coupled with the private installation and maintenance of approved backflow prevention devices serves this purpose.

• All Non-residential property owners with City water service are required to install and maintain an approved reduced pressure zone (RPZ) backflow prevention device.
• All residential property owners are required to install and maintain an approved backflow prevention device if their premises contain an actual or potential Cross-Connection such as a well or irrigation system and have an identified hazard such as an irrigation system, well or fire line.
• Property owners with backflow prevention devices are required to regularly test their backflow devices and submit certified test results from Certified Backflow Testing Professionals to the Utilities Department Backflow Prevention Program Administrator at the email below.
• Certified testers are responsible to comply with the standards of the utility.

What is a Cross-connection?

A cross-connection occurs in a plumbing system when the potable water system (drinking water) is connected to a non-potable (not fit to drink) source. For the residential customer, sources of water of an unknown quality include irrigation systems, well systems or reclaimed water. Cross-connection of an unprotected water supply can result in the contamination of the water supply.

The proper backflow device protects the public water supply from possible contamination.

Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report(PDF, 42KB)

Additional Resources

• City of Sarasota Cross Connection Ordinance No. 09-4898
• Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62-555.360
• Florida Department of Environmental Protection
• Florida Health Department Sarasota County