Backflow Prevention

Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control Program

The City of Wilsonville is committed to insuring a safe, high quality, reliable drinking water system.  An important part of the City of Wilsonville Water Quality Program is its Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control Program. Please see Wilsonville City Code Chapter 3.1 - Service Connections and Regulations.

What is Backflow and Cross Connection?

Backflow is the reverse flow of water and other liquids or substances into distribution pipes in the potable water supply. A cross-connection is any actual or potential physical connection between a public water system, and any source of non-potable liquid, solid or gas that could contaminate the potable water supply by backflow.

Backflow prevention assemblies are installed to prevent backflow of contaminants into drinking water through cross-connections.

Examples of Common Cross Connections:

• Irrigation Systems
• Auxiliary water systems (wells)
• Hoses submerged in polluted or contaminated water
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Boilers
• Swimming pools and hot tubs  

Required Yearly Testing of Backflow Prevention Assemblies

State and City code requires all backflow prevention assemblies be tested:

• Each year by a certified backflow assembly tester.
• After any repair, replacement, or relocation.
• After initial installation.

City of Wilsonville water customers with backflow assemblies required to be tested will receive a yearly reminder letter. Failure to conduct the required yearly backflow prevention assembly test could result in denial or discontinuation of water service. 

The following actions should be taken to ensure compliance each year:

1. Contact a State of Oregon approved Certified Backflow Assembly Tester.
2. Schedule a test.
3. Provide your TRAC number to the tester.

• Your TRAC number is listed in the yellow box on the reminder to test letter you received from the City of Wilsonville. (EXAMPLE) 
• You can request your TRAC number as well by calling 503-570-1551 or sending an e-mail to backflow@ci.wilsonville.or.us.
• Your TRAC number gives testers information about the assembly(s) at your location, such as make, model, and serial number. It does not identify you or provide your contact information.

4. Once the test is complete, the certified tester will submit your results to the City of Wilsonville through Ecosconnect. The tester can also send you a copy of the test report.

Questions, Concerns, or Additional Information?

See our Backflow Program FAQ's page or contact the City of Wilsonville Backflow Prevention & Cross Connection Control Program Coordinator, Steve Gering, at 503-570-1551 or Backflow@ci.wilsonville.or.us