The City of Poway supplies its own water and enforces a cross-connection control program under Municipal Code Chapter 13.14: required backflow devices must be tested every year, at the consumer's expense, by a certified tester on the City's approved list. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Poway.
What does Poway's code actually require?
Poway treats its own water at the Lester J. Berglund plant and delivers it to customers, so cross-connection control is a City program run by the Director of Public Works. Chapter 13.14 of the municipal code puts two duties on the property owner. First, if the City requires a backflow prevention device, the consumer installs it at their own expense. Second, the device has to be tested once a year, again at the consumer's expense. Questions about a specific account go to City customer services at 858-668-4401; after 3:00 p.m. on business days and on weekends, the Water Treatment Plant line is 858-668-4751.
Who counts as an approved tester in Poway?
The code is more specific than most. A tester needs an AWWA and/or ABPA certificate, must appear on the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health tester list and must also be on the City of Poway's own approved list. A plumber who tests devices in a neighboring water district is not automatically cleared for Poway, so ask before the appointment. When the test is done, keep a copy of the report with the readings and the tester's certification number.
Does Poway's water affect the device?
The City reports hardness of roughly 228 to 235 ppm as calcium carbonate. That is hard water, and calcium film is one of the routine reasons a check valve leaks by or a relief valve opens early. Many Poway homes date from the late 1970s (the median year built is about 1978), and on larger lots the irrigation system can be extensive, with assemblies that have sat in sun and soil for a long time. Common warning signs:
- A relief port that drips or discharges when the sprinklers start
- Mineral crust on the body and test cocks
- Weak pressure in one zone after work on the valve
- A failed tag from the last tester
Local note
A like-for-like rebuild is maintenance, but a new assembly or a relocated one may need a permit. Poway's Building Division (858-668-4645) accepts submittals electronically only, through City of Poway Online Services, with plan check and inspection handled by EsGil Corporation for the City.
Backflow Testing questions in Poway
Who is allowed to test my backflow assembly?
Who pays for testing, repairs and replacement?
Do I need a permit to add, move or replace a backflow device?
Why is water dribbling out of my backflow device?
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