DeKalb Issues Backflow Compliance Notifications

DECATUR, Ga. – To protect the drinking water supply and ensure continued compliance with state and federal regulations, the DeKalb Department of Watershed Management (DWM) is issuing backflow compliance notifications to commercial and residential water customers.

Backflow prevention assemblies stop water from reversing direction and flowing back into the county water supply.  State law requires these devices are tested and reported on an annual basis.

“For most customers who receive notifications, it will be simply a matter of sending us the certified inspection reports per their service agreement,” said Scott Towler, DWM director. “This is an opportunity to check the integrity of backflow devices, which are stable mechanisms designed to last many years. DWM will work with any customers whose devices are out of compliance.”

Backflow devices are required for all commercial properties such as churches, schools, government buildings and businesses as well as and irrigation systems, including residential with a separate tap to the system. Notifications are being sent to customers who order new meters, whose records do not indicate an up-to-date annual test, or whose physical inspection indicates the required backflow prevention assembly is not in place.

“The safety and integrity of our water system is of paramount importance,” said Towler. “These tests are not only required by law, but it is the right thing to do for all of our water customers.”

For questions regarding backflow prevention requirements, information can be found at www.dekalbcountyga.gov/watershed-management/backflow-prevention-information or contact the Backflow Prevention Program at DeKalbBackflow@dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-687-4075.

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