Elkhart Public Works and Utilities: backflow testing rules
Serves Elkhart, IN. Every point below comes from Elkhart Public Works and Utilities's own pages, linked; check your notice for your own deadline.
Who must test
- Under Elkhart's water utility policies (Section 19.10), each backflow prevention device must be inspected or tested by a certified inspector at installation and at intervals not exceeding one year (air gaps, RP, double check, PVB and SVB, AVB). Source.
- Irrigation lines with a sprinkler less than 6 inches above grade built after July 19, 1985 need an air gap, reduced pressure principle backflow preventer or pressure vacuum breaker. Source.
Notices and deadlines
- As a courtesy, a first reminder is mailed one month before the inspection due date. Source.
How the report is filed
- All cross connection control device reports must be submitted to the Water Utility and the customer within 30 days of the inspection or test. Source.
Tester registration
- The utility does not perform inspections; the customer must use an individual approved by and registered with IDEM at the time of inspection. Source.
Fees
- Homeowners installing or replacing an approved backflow device on an existing irrigation system may get a one-time loan of up to $1000 from the Water Utility; inspection fees are not covered. Source.
If a test is missed
- A second notice, sent not more than 5 days after the due date, gives 15 additional days before disconnection, and the Fire Department may be notified. Source.
Read October 6, 2026. Program page: cityofelkhartin.gov.