Manatee County Utilities: backflow testing rules

Manatee County Utilities at a glance

When the test is due

Owners must test backflow preventers every year. Properties that irrigate with potable water need two preventers, one at the meter and one on the irrigation line. Source.

How the report is filed

The registered testing company reports the results to the county through its secured contractors portal. Source.

Fee

If a preventer is not tested after the final notice, the county's contract plumber tests it and the owner is charged at least $50 per preventer. Source.

If a test is missed

A failed assembly must be repaired or replaced and recertified within 30 days, or all water service to the property is discontinued until it complies. Source.

Approved testers

145 companies on Manatee County Utilities's own list, read October 6, 2026, each with a "Utility-Approved Tester" badge on its card here. The list.

Notices and deadlines

• The county mails an annual testing letter, and the test must be completed within 30 days of the letter date. Source.

Tester registration

• Testing companies must register with the Cross Connection Control office and hold a plumbing license, insurance, tester certification and a calibrated test kit. Source.

Approved testers

• The county publishes Certified Potable Testers and Certified Fireline Testers lists on its program page, mymanatee.org. Source.

Program

• Manatee County Utilities runs a Cross Connection Control Program to protect the public drinking water supply from contamination. Source.

From notice to filed report, the steps are the same everywhere: how a backflow test goes.

Other water utilities in Florida

• Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department
• City of Tampa Water Department
• Orlando Utilities Commission
• Broward County Water and Wastewater Services
• City of Boca Raton Utility Services
• City of Fort Lauderdale Public Works
• City of Hollywood Public Utilities
• City of Lakeland Water Utilities

Read October 7, 2026. Program page: mymanatee.org.

Backflow testers near Bradenton

What the badges mean

All testers near Bradenton · Florida roster