Cross Connections

Annual testing for all testable backflow prevention devices is required by City code. 

Customers with testable backflow prevention devices will receive notification and a blank test form from the City before the test is due. It is the customers responsibility to have the test done by a certified backflow prevention device professional and verify that a completed test form showing that the device has passed the inspection has been submitted to the Department of Utilities.  Please keep a copy of the test for your records. 

Starting January 1, 2023, persons testing and repairing backflow prevention assemblies and backflow prevention devices shall be certified by a Commonwealth of Virginia tradesman certification program (identified by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation [DPOR] as backflow prevention device workers.)   

Department of Utilities Cross Connection Specialists inspect commercial businesses and facilities to ensure Virginia Department of Health water quality standards are in place to protect public health.

The City requires these establishments to have a reduced pressure zone backflow preventer (RPZ) installed on the main water line. This device completely contains the water in the facility and prevents it from coming back into the public water supply through backpressure or backsiphonage. To ensure the continued function of these devices, all devices are required to be tested annually and inspected by our team at any time at our discretion. Fire sprinkler systems also require their own RPZ.

Meet Our Inspector

Nathan                                                                     

Class Information

This is a 16-hour class designed to certify the attendee in backflow preventer assembly testing. Classes are tentatively scheduled March through September every other month, 10 people minimum for the class. The time is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Classes currently closed. Check back for updates. 

Application for Backflow Device Tester Class (PDF)

Backflow Device Testers License Renewal Application (PDF)

Prerequisite Items for Class Enrollment

Attendee must be:

• A licensed Master Plumber or person working under the supervision of a Master Plumber, bring a copy of your DPOR contractor’s license, a copy of the Master Plumber’s license and your current City business licenses for verification
• A full-time employee of a Fire Sprinkler company, bring a copy of your DPOR contractor’s license and your current City business licenses for verification
• A full-time employee of a Lawn Irrigation company, bring a copy of your DPOR contractor’s license and your current City business licenses for verification
• A full-time Federal, State, City, or County employee directly involved with the installation, repair, maintenance or testing of backflow preventers

Other special circumstance where a backflow preventer testers license would be required, provide a written request to the Cross Connection Control Officer detailing the special circumstances.

There is a written and practical exam to determine satisfactory completion.

Price

Cost is $100 cash, or check or money order made payable to City of Norfolk Treasurer, paid prior to the beginning of class, mail all applications and monies to the office of Cross Connections at 6040 Waterworks Road, Norfolk, VA 23502.

Passing attendees shall receive a Certificate and a Limited or General license.

What to Bring

Attendee must bring to class:

• Documents noted above (documents can be faxed or emailed in advance)
• A backflow preventer test kit (all backflow preventer test kits must have been calibrated within the last year. A copy of the calibration certificate will be collected in class.)

Due to the environmental hazards found on lawns, irrigation systems are considered high hazards with potential to backflow into the public water distribution system. For this reason, these systems must have an approved backflow prevention assembly installed and tested annually. It is the owner's responsibility to ensure that cross connections do not exist, and that the backflow prevention device is installed and maintained.

For information about disconnecting and capping irrigation systems, click here.