Backflow Prevention

Devices

The City of Glendale and Denver Water require that all water services in the City of Glendale must have a backflow device installed. All backflow devices must be installed in accordance with local plumbing and building codes and installations must be inspected by the City of Glendale. The following approved devices can be used for backflow prevention:

  • Double-check valve assembly (DC)
  • Reduced pressure principal backflow assembly (RP)
  • Air gap

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment accepts the use of backflow preventers that have received approval by either University of Southern California Foundation of Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research or the American Society of Sanitary Engineers (ASSE).

The type of device required is contingent upon the potential degree of hazard from the water service as deemed by the City of Glendale and Denver Water. For example, irrigation systems typically will require a pressure vacuum breaker or a reduced pressure principle device. Fire protection systems typically require a double check device. Boiler systems typically require a reduced pressure principle device. Properties with medical or dental facilities will typically require a reduced pressure principle device. Note that these are only general guidelines. The specific installation and circumstances will be taken into account by the City of Glendale when determining the degree of hazard being contained and will dictate which device is required for each installation.

Maintenance

All backflow devices must be maintained in good working order and need to be tested annually by a certified technician at the property owner's expense. A copy of the report must be submitted to the City of Glendale Public Works Department at 601 South Elm Street upon completion of the test. The property owner must retain a copy of testing and maintenance forms for a period of three years. If a backflow device does not pass inspection and testing, the City of Glendale must be notified immediately at 303-639-4500.

View the Article 12 of the Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulation (PDF).