Backflow Prevention Program

Lauren Burack,
Utility Services Program Policy Coordinator
Phone: 561-338-7306
Email: lburack@myboca.us

One of the goals of the Utility Services Department is to ensure everyone in Boca Raton receives safe drinking water.  Certain types of commercial facilities are required to have backflow prevention devices installed, maintained, and tested in order to protect the public water supply from contamination or pollution due to backflow or back-siphonage.  Backflow or back-siphonage is the flow of water or other liquids, mixtures, or substances into the distributing pipes of a potable water supply from any source or sources other than the intended source.  Back siphonage is the flowing back of used, contaminated, or polluted water from a plumbing fixture, irrigation system or vessel into a potable water supply due to a negative pressure in the supply piping.  Utilizing backflow prevention devices prevents backflow or back siphonage from occurring.  Per the City of Boca Raton Code of Ordinance No. 17-194:  “It shall be the duty of the customer-user at any premises where backflow prevention devices are installed to have certified inspections and operational tests made at least once a year.”  Commercial properties can help ensure the safety of our water by complying with the annual inspection requirements for backflow prevention devices.

Below is a list of facilities that require a backflow device. This list is presented as a guideline and is not to be construed as encompassing all commercial properties requiring a backflow device.*

*For more information, see the City of Boca Raton Code Section 17-194:

Helpful Backflow Links :

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Certified Backflow Testers
• Authorized Tester Form