Backflow Prevention Program

The goal of the backflow prevention program is to assure customers that the last user on our lines has water that is just as safe as the first user and that nothing harmful has entered the system in between. Protecting the water distribution system from cross-connections is accomplished by using backflow preventers.

A cross-connection is a point in the system that has potential to introduce contaminants into the drinking water supply. If the pressure in a water main drops while your hose is submerged in polluted or contaminated water, then the water (and whatever is in it) could be siphoned back into your drinking water supply - unless a backflow preventer stops it from occurring.

The Facts about Backflow Prevention:

• All lawn sprinkler systems are required to have a backflow prevention device to prevent the accidental siphoning of non-potable water back into the potable water system. Homeowners can use either a pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) or a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) backflow preventer for this purpose.
• All hose bibbs are required to have an atmospheric vacuum breaker.
• All backflow preventers are to be tested annually (or upon reinstallation if removed for the winter) and test reports need to be submitted to the city. The testing must be done by a certified tester.
• If your system does not have the proper backflow preventer, or you are installing a new system that requires a backflow preventer, a cross-connection permit is required to install one. A cross-connection permit can be obtained by a licensed plumber or a certified backflow preventer tester from the City of Olathe Development Services Department, at 100 E Santa Fe.
• Most plumbing and irrigation contractors have certified inspectors/testers available for hire.
• Backflow Prevention Fact Sheet

For additional information regarding the City's Backflow Prevention Program, please contact Customer Service at 913-971-9311.

Submit all test reports to:
CITY OF OLATHE
MUNICIPAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT
BACKFLOW PREVENTION PROGRAM
P.O. BOX 768
OLATHE, KANSAS 66051-0768