Backflow testing in Memphis

Who has to test in Memphis

The rule depends on the utility that sends your water bill. Each line below is from that utility's own page.

• Memphis Light, Gas and Water: Stated on MLGW's backflow testing procedures and guidelines page for testers and customers.

Source: Memphis Light, Gas and Water

How each utility takes the test report

Most utilities here take the report online through a vendor portal; the tester files it. Open a utility for its own deadline, filing steps and fees.

What testing costs in Memphis

These are amounts the utility or a company published on its own page, shown as published, never averaged.

• Memphis Light, Gas and Water: $8.28 per month charged to all commercial and industrial customers (2026 Schedule of Charges).
• Memphis Light, Gas and Water: $160 per student for the Friday class at the Cross Connection Training Lab; includes the $60 State of Tennessee fee.

Sources: Memphis Light, Gas and Water; Memphis Light, Gas and Water

Tennessee rules behind the local programs

State rules set the minimum; the utilities above add their own deadlines and tester registration.

• Tennessee's rule (0400-45-01-.17(6)) sets no test interval. TDEC's Cross-Connection Control Manual, which is guidance, says assemblies should be tested at least every 12 months, and each water system enforces its own program.
• TDEC Division of Water Supply criteria in the manual tell water purveyors to see that assemblies are tested after installation and at least annually.
• The TDEC manual states it is guidance only and does not create legal rights or obligations; binding force comes from the rule plus each system's approved ordinance.

Sources: Tennessee rule; Tennessee rule; Tennessee rule