City of Columbus Division of Water: backflow testing rules

Who must test

• A required backflow prevention device must be tested by an approved plumber or contractor at least once every 12 months. Source.
• Typical installations needing backflow assemblies include irrigation systems, commercially leased property, full service restaurants, medical facilities, car washes, industrial sites, swimming pools and properties with a well or other auxiliary water. Source.

How the report is filed

• Approved testers submit all test results to the BCO within 5 days of completion through the City's online application at columbus.tokaytest.com (Tokay). Source.

Tester registration

• To be approved, a tester must be recognized by the Ohio Department of Commerce as a Certified Backflow Tester, be registered with the Columbus Department of Building Regulations, and use gauges calibrated within the last 12 months. Source.
• Testers must possess test equipment calibrated within the last 12 months and registered with the BCO. Source.

Fees

• Besides the tester's charge, the City bills an annual administrative fee of $25.00 per device (City Code 1105.09). Source.
• New testers pay a $100.00 BCO registration fee, then a $25.00 annual registration fee due February 15 each year. Source.

Approved testers

• The Consumers' Page links two PDF lists of certified, City-approved testers (irrigation systems and all systems), updated about biweekly. Not downloaded. Source.

If a test is missed

• Failing to provide and maintain a required assembly may lead the Division of Water to shut off water to the property. Source.

Program

• The Backflow Compliance Office (BCO) administers the Division of Water's backflow program and tracks nearly 35,000 assemblies. Source.

Read October 6, 2026. Program page: columbus.gov.

Certified backflow testers near Columbus

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