LADWP Backflow Testing Requirements

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) operates a Cross-Connection Control Program under its Water Quality Division. All properties with backflow prevention assemblies connected to the LADWP water system must have them tested annually by an AWWA-certified or LA County-certified tester.

LADWP's program is governed by California Title 17 of the Code of Regulations and the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code. The utility serves approximately 4 million residents and takes cross-connection control seriously, issuing compliance notices and pursuing enforcement for properties that fail to test on schedule.

Backflow prevention assembly testing is required for all properties with installed devices on LADWP water service connections. This includes:

• Commercial properties with fire sprinkler systems, boiler systems, or irrigation connections
• Industrial facilities with chemical processing, cooling towers, or process water lines
• Multi-family residential buildings with fire suppression or shared irrigation
• Any property with a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assembly, double check valve assembly (DCVA), or pressure vacuum breaker (PVB)
• Food service establishments, medical facilities, and car washes
• Properties with auxiliary water supplies (wells, recycled water) that also connect to LADWP potable water

Backflow testers working in LADWP's service area must hold a valid certification from one of the following: American Water Works Association (AWWA), American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA), or the University of Southern California (USC) Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.

California requires testers to complete a minimum 32-hour training program covering backflow theory, test procedures, and hands-on assembly testing. Testers must use calibrated differential pressure gauges with current calibration certificates. Recertification is required every two years through continuing education.

Test reports must be submitted to LADWP's Cross-Connection Control Section. LADWP accepts reports through their online BSI Online portal, which is the preferred method for certified testers. Some testers still submit paper forms (Form 7-A) by mail or fax.

Reports must include the assembly manufacturer, model, serial number, size, test results for each check valve and relief valve, and the tester's certification number and calibration date. Property owners should confirm with their tester that the report will be submitted to LADWP.

LADWP requires annual testing of all backflow prevention assemblies. The testing deadline is typically based on the anniversary of the device's installation or last test date. LADWP sends notification letters approximately 60 days before the testing deadline.

Properties that fail to comply may receive a second notice, followed by a non-compliance letter. Continued failure to test can result in a back-flow testing service charge added to the water bill and, in severe cases, water service disconnection.

Failed assemblies must be repaired by a certified tester and re-tested. Repair and re-test reports are due within 14 days of the initial failed test.