What type of backflow prevention assemblies are allowed in irrigation systems?

For those irrigation systems connected to the City’s potable water system, the appropriate protection is a Reduced Pressure Principle (RPP) backflow prevention assembly, as it protects against both high and low hazards, as well as against both backpressure and backsiphonage. While Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA) are common devices, they do not protect against high health hazards and are therefore not suitable for use in irrigation systems. A Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) may be used for service protection if the Public Utilities Division potable water service is the sole source of supply to the premises or property, if it is used strictly for irrigation, and there is no means or potential for backpressure, as PVBs protect against backsiphonage but not against backpressure. Approved backflow prevention devices and assemblies are those which meet AWWA standards and are approved by ASSE and the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.

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1. Why does the City of Petersburg Public Utilities Division have a Backflow Prevention & Cross Connection Control Program?
2. What is a cross-connection?
3. What is backflow?
4. What is backpressure?
5. What is backsiphonage?
6. Why is backflow a concern to the public?
7. Are all residential homes required to have backflow assemblies?
8. Why are irrigation systems considered to be hazardous to the water system?
9. What type of backflow prevention assemblies are allowed in irrigation systems?
10. How do I know if I have a backflow prevention assembly?
11. What kind of buildings need backflow prevention assemblies?
12. Is there a minimum height that the backflow assembly must be installed?
13. When is a plumbing permit required?
14. Can a backflow device be removed?
15. How frequently does a backflow prevention assembly have to be tested?
16. How much will the inspections/maintenance cost?
17. What credentials are required to inspect and test a backflow prevention assembly?
18. Will I receive notification when to perform my test?
19. What if I don’t receive a letter?
20. What can I do with my test report?
21. Abbreviations