Cross Connection Prevention Program

The Cross Connection Prevention Program focuses on preventing backflow and protecting drinking water. When drinking water pipes connect to plumbing fixtures or equipment, a cross connection may occur. This happens when water from private property is pushed or pulled back into the drinking water supply. Backflow valves prevent this from occurring.

Backflow Test Report Fee and Submission

Backflow test reports must be submitted with a $42 fee per report. Download a blank test report and follow the instructions below to submit your test report(s) online, in person, or by mail.

Verify Your Water Provider

Before submitting a test report, verify your address on the Water Service Provider map to confirm you are in the blue City of Rockville service area. If you are in the red service area, your test reports must be submitted to WSSC.

Please have digital versions of your test report(s) and your credit card ready before proceeding. American Express is not accepted. Each test report submission requires payment of the fee prior to uploading. Online submission will result in faster processing of your reports.

Submit Backflow Test Report

Bring your test report(s), a completed invoice template form, and payment (check or cash) during business hours to the Rockville City Hall Cashier, Third Floor, 111 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850. Checks must be made payable to “City of Rockville” and include “210-850-04IN-3438” in the memo line.

Mail your test report(s) and payment (check only) to City of Rockville Cashier, 111 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850. Checks must be made payable to “City of Rockville” and include “210-850-04IN-3438” in the memo line. Do not send cash by mail.

Commercial Backflow Requirements

City code requires that backflow protection must be achieved through the installation of backflow devices or assemblies after each metered service or the right-of-way for dedicated fire service lines. For other services with higher risk, testable backflow assemblies are installed and required by city code to be tested by a certified tester.

Obtain a permit for the new installation, replacement, removal, or relocation of your backflow prevention assemblies (excluding removal for winterization).
Schedule annual testing with a certified tester and submit a completed Backflow Prevention Test Report to the city.
Ensure identified deficiencies are corrected in a timely manner.
Ensure the repair or replacement of a failed assembly is completed without delay.
Ensure assemblies that are removed for winterization are reinstalled prior to the month testing is due.
If your business no longer has need for an irrigation system, proper decommissioning of the backflow is required. The backflow assembly must be removed and the line should be capped.

Obtain a permit for the work being performed.
Ensure adherence to all relevant codes, regulations, and ordinances related to the work being performed.
Acquire and maintain required licenses and certifications relevant to the work being performed.
Submit completed Backflow Prevention Test Reports to the city.

Infographic with the text "Water should flow only one way—preventing backflow at home," featuring illustrations of houses, a water tower, and pipelines.

Residential Backflow Tips

Examples of residential cross connections that need to be protected include fire sprinkler systems, irrigation systems, hot tubs, pools, hose bibs, and boilers. Failing to adequately prevent backflow events can have significant negative health and economic impacts. Learn more about preventing backflow at home.

Contact

Wendy Blackman
Public Works Department
Environmental Management Division
240-314-8878
backflowprevention@rockvillemd.gov

Hours
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Address
Taft Center
6 Taft Court
Rockville, MD 20850