Application for Approval of Backflow Prevention Devices

A property owner must install an approved backflow prevention device on every water service pipe that has a connection between the drinking water supply and a potential source of contamination, such as a business process or equipment that could potentially contaminate the water supply. A licensed plumber or engineer can advise a building owner on whether or not they have cross connection hazards that will require the installation of a backflow prevention device on their water services.

A backflow prevention device must be installed to protect water supplies from contamination or pollution by backflow or back-siphonage (liquid being forced up by the pressure of the atmosphere) from a commercial property or dwelling unit into a City water main, private water main, or internal water main. A property owner must install an approved backflow prevention device in every water service pipe that has a potential cross connection hazard (a connection between a drinking water supply and a source of contamination). The installation must comply with the Rules Governing and Restricting the Use and Supply of Water established in Title 15, Chapter 20 of the Rules of the City of New York (RCNY).

In order to meet this requirement, a Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect must submit an Application for Approval of Backflow Prevention Devices to the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to install a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) device or a Double Check Valve Assembly with the appropriate drawings.

A building owner who fails to install a backflow prevention device as directed by DEP will be subject to the termination of the water supply, notices of violation, cease and desist orders, other civil and criminal actions and proceedings, fines, penalties, and other enforcement measures as described in section 24-346 of the New York City Administrative Code, linked below under Additional Information.