Do homeowners need a backflow test?
State law and Portland City Code require assemblies on properties with irrigation systems, fire sprinklers or other cross-connection risks.
When a home needs a tested assembly
Portland lists lawn irrigation and fire sprinkler systems among property features that may need an assembly.
Portland also lists pools, hot tubs, spas, solar heating, private wells or alternate water supplies and boilers.
Portland: for residential properties the most common uses requiring assemblies are irrigation and fire sprinkler systems.
CSU Extension: backflow prevention devices must be installed on all sprinkler systems, including hose-attached sprinklers, that use potable water.
CSU Extension: sprinkler systems connected only to irrigation (ditch) water do not require backflow protection.
CSU Extension: permits normally are required before installing sprinkler systems that need backflow devices.
Boulder, CO: single-unit homes and duplexes are generally exempt from annual testing per state rules unless a hazard is identified.
Sources: Portland: assemblies required for irrigation and fire sprinkler systems; Portland: residential uses most commonly irrigation and fire sprinkler; Colorado: backflow device on all potable sprinkler systems; Boulder: single-unit homes generally exempt from annual tracking