Backflow Prevention Program

The Town of Highland Park will be introducing a State Mandated Backflow Prevention Program to protect against the contamination of the public water supply. This is in accordance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Federal Clean Water Act of 1972 via the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (“TCEQ”).

GOVERNING AGENCIES

The TCEQ Texas Administrative Code (“TAC”) Title 30, Part 1, Chapter 290, Subchapter D and Chapter 344, Subchapter E, mandates that all public water suppliers require the installation, maintenance, and ongoing testing of backflow prevention assemblies to protect against contamination of the public water supply. This requirement applies to fire suppression, irrigation systems, and commercial equipment.

CURRENT STATUS

The Town adopted the 2024 Edition of the International Residential Code (“IRC”) and International Plumbing Code (“IPC”). The Town relies on the Plumbing Code as the primary means of cross-connection installation control and backflow prevention, requiring backflow prevention assemblies for all new residential and commercial construction.

Informational Flyer

What is a cross connection?

A cross connection refers to actual or potential contamination hazard between potable water supplies and any non-potable substances or sources that could make water unsafe to drink. Common cross connections are lawn sprinklers, foundation watering systems, and garden hoses.

What is backflow?

Water flowing in the reverse of its intended direction, which can occur from a loss of pressure in the supply lines. Pressure changes can occur for many reasons including broken water valves, malfunctioning sprinklers, emergency water usage, and improperly installed valves.

Cross connections and backflow can cause pollutants and contaminants to enter the clean water supply, compromising its safety and quality.

While these devices are required for new residential and commercial construction, the Town does not currently have a formal program to address testing requirements, frequency, and enforcement. In addition, the Town does not currently have a full inventory of installed backflow prevention assemblies or operational status.

SOLUTION

The Town will be utilizing a third-party contractor, SC Tracking Solutions, who will provide a full-service concierge solution to identify, track and notify residents regarding backflow prevention assemblies. This service will include the backflow device testing of all new and existing residential and commercial properties for irrigation and fire lines. Because the backflow devices are located on private property, each residential and commercial entity will be contacted by letter to schedule an inspection.

ANTICIPATED COST

Commercial or Residential testing, price per unit:

Irrigation/Domestic $75 per unit
Fire/Commercial $85 per unit

The inspection cost will be conveniently added to your monthly water bill. All owners are responsible for costs associated with any repairs that are needed.

ESTIMATED START DATE

February 2026

LOCATIONS

Townwide

ANTICIPATED SCHEDULE

TBD – STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact Information

Heather Cerda

Assistant Director of Engineering and Public Works

Town of Highland Park

hcerda@hptx.org

214-559-9358

Backflow Prevention Program