Backflow Testing Reminders for Boulder Property Owners
The City of Boulder has provided several important reminders regarding annual backflow testing requirements. While the testing schedule for most devices has not changed, property owners should be aware of the specific requirements for irrigation systems.
Annual Testing Requirements
All domestic and fire protection backflow prevention devices are due for testing one year from the date of their previous passing test.
For irrigation backflow devices, the schedule is slightly different if the previous year's test was completed after August 1. In those cases, the device must be tested by July 31 of the following year rather than one year from the previous test.
Examples:
- An irrigation backflow tested in May 2025 is due again in May 2026.
- An irrigation backflow tested in September 2025 must be tested by July 31, 2026.
Beginning the first week of August, the City will issue hangtag warnings for irrigation backflow devices that have not been tested.
This policy, now in its third year, was implemented to reduce delays caused by irrigation systems being winterized before required testing was completed. In the past, this often resulted in water meters being locked off, creating unnecessary challenges for property owners, testing companies, irrigation contractors, and City staff. The City also encourages property owners to have their irrigation backflow tested when the irrigation system is activated each spring to ensure the device is functioning properly throughout the watering season.
Clarification on Previous "Exemptions"
Current requirements remain as follows:
- Single-family homes and duplexes: The City is only tracking fire system backflow devices.
- Properties with three or more units: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment requires that all cross-connections be properly controlled. As a result, many smaller multifamily properties that were previously considered "exempt" are now required to have irrigation backflow devices tested if the irrigation system is connected to that water service.
Property owners with questions about backflow testing requirements are encouraged to contact Michael Parrish at nobackflow@bouldercolorado.gov.