Backflow Prevention Program

One of the goals of the Utility Services Department is to ensure everyone in Boca Raton receives safe drinking water. Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow of a liquid, gas, or other substance in a potable water distribution piping system as a result of a cross-connection. Potable water services for properties where certain types of activities occur are required to have backflow prevention devices installed, maintained, and tested in order to protect the public water supply from contamination or pollution due to backflow or backsiphonage.

Back-siphonage is a type of backflow where the upstream pressure to a piping system is reduced to a subatmospheric pressure. Utilizing backflow prevention devices prevents backflow or backsiphonage from occurring.

Backflow Device

City Code 

City of Boca Raton Code of Ordinances Article VI. - Cross-Connection and Backflow Protection establishes the City's Cross-Connection Control And Backflow Protection Policy.  Customers help ensure the safety of our water by complying with the annual inspection requirements for their backflow prevention devices.  More detailed information is found in the City of Boca Raton Cross-Connection and Backflow Prevention Policy which can be obtained by contacting Kara Mills at 561-338-7306 or email: kmills@myboca.us.     

Submitting Test Results 

Results of the required annual inspection must be submitted online to Backflow Solutions Inc. (BSI). The City of Boca Raton has contracted with BSI to manage the administrative tasks of the backflow inspection program. BSI will serve as the primary point of contact for backflow inspection information within the City of Boca Raton and can be contacted at 800-414-4990 or through their website. The Utility Services Department is responsible for managing the program, enforcement actions, and billing.

Facilities Requiring a Backflow Device 

Below is a list of facilities that require a backflow device. This list is presented as a guideline and is not to be construed as encompassing all commercial properties requiring a backflow device.                                            

Automotive repairsNursing homes
Buildings over 3 storiesPaint and body shops
Car wash facilitiesPetroleum/fuel stations
Concrete facilitiesPiers/docks
Dentist/doctor officesPotable water connections for construction use
Exterminating companiesReuse/reclaimed water
Fire hydrant metersRestaurants
Hospitals/medical facilitiesSchools
Irrigation systemsVeterinary establishments
Laundry and dry cleaningWaterfront facilities
Marine/boat engine repairsPremises where this is auxiliary water system:
  • Canals
  • Lakes
  • Wells