A Backflow Prevention Assembly is a device installed on a water system to prevent contaminated water from flowing backward into the clean water supply. It ensures that water only moves in one direction, protecting public health by preventing pollutants, chemicals, or bacteria from entering drinking water.

You must have your backflow preventer tested by a company from Manatee County's Authorized Testers list within 30 days. If it fails inspection, repair or replace it, and re-certify within the same timeframe. Failure to comply may result in the County scheduling the inspection at your expense, at a minimum of $50.00. For removal requests, submit a petition to the Cross Connection Control Office for approval.

If you discover water leaking from the backflow, these lines would be the homeowner's responsibility.  You may want to contact a plumber.

To register with Manatee County please complete and submit the Certified Backflow Prevention Assembly Service Provider Registration Checklist to the Cross Connection Control office by emailing water.saver@mymanatee.org. Contractors must possess a valid, up-to-date plumbing license, current insurance, backflow preventer testing certification, and a current test kit calibration report. For testing of fire line backflow preventers, the State's Fire Marshal certificate is required. Registered contractors are required to record backflow test results through the Backflow Inspection and Test Portal within 7 days of testing. Any reports submitted through mail, e-mail, or fax will not be accepted. Failed test reports are required to be entered no later than 1 business day after testing.

A backflow preventer is required if your property has a swimming pool, in-ground irrigation system, secondary water source (like a well or reclaimed water), a body of water, a fire sprinkler system, or a cross connection. If you irrigate with potable water, two backflow preventers are required—one at the meter and another on the irrigation line. These requirements comply with federal and state regulations, as well as local Manatee County codes.