What is Backflow?

Backflow is a common occurrence because there are so many everyday opportunities to cross-connect potable and non-potable water supplies. A cross connection is any direct, unprotected contact of a potable water supply with a non-potable or potentially contaminated liquid, solid or gas supply.  Backflow can be prevented by using an vacuum breaker attachment on your spigot for normal everyday garden hose use (i.e. washing cars, etc.) Or by using a backflow prevention device (pictured above) for more permanent connections like an irrigation system, fire lines, domestic use where potable water contamination could occur ( i.e. dry cleaners, medical, etc.).

The City of Brentwood has a comprehensive and proactive program aimed at reducing the likelihood of backflow due to cross connections.  Each year, staff and other state certified testers conduct onsite inspections of every cross connection to make sure they are working properly.

If you are a homeowner with a cross connection, you will be assessed an annual fee, usually during the January/February billing cycle.  This fee is as follows and covers the cost of inspections and administration costs:

• $57.00 for domestic and irrigation devices
• $105.00 for fire-line devices

Customers have the option to disconnect irrigation systems from the public water supply and not incur a fee.   If you would like more information about this option, please contact our Utility Programs Coordinator - Bill Jennings at (615) 371-0080.

More Information

City of Brentwood Cross Connection Control Guidelines

TDEC Cross Connection Control

State Certified Backflow Testers List 

Annual Backflow Test Report Form --- once completed, email to bill.jennings@brentwoodtn.gov

Initial Backflow Test Report form (only for use with Permits) once completed, upload document to appropriate permit at https://brentwood.onlama.com/ 

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