Water Quality: Backflow Program

Anytime you tap into the community's drinking water system (to put in new irrigation pipes, for example), state law requires that you install a backflow assembly. Backflow assemblies prevent water from "flowing back" into the drinking water lines, potentially contaminating the water system.

Backflow assemblies can be purchased wherever plumbing supplies are sold. Prior to installing a backflow assembly, you must obtain a City of Springfield plumbing permit. After the assembly is installed, it will need to be inspected by the city and tested by an Oregon State Health Division-certified device tester. For the inspection, call the city’s 24-hour building inspection request line at 541-726-3769. Download a list of certified testers here. After your test is complete, you will need to provide SUB a copy of the results.

Backflow Prevention assembly regional design standards

The following regional installation standards for backflow assemblies are available to help you design and install required equipment. The printer-friendly PDFs are provided for your convenience by the Springfield Utility Board, Eugene Water & Electric Board, Rainbow Water District and City of Eugene Planning and Development department.

Methods

• Airgap

Small Assemblies (.5 to 2 inches)

• Small Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)

• Small Double Check Valve (DC) Above Ground

• Small Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly (RP) Above Ground

• Small Spill Resistant Vacuum Breaker (SVB)

• Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)

Large Assemblies (2.5 inch and larger)

• Large Ames Double Check Valve (DCV) Above Ground

• Large Double Check Valve (DCV) Above Ground

• Large Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly (RP) Above Ground