Notice to Test Backflow Prevention Device
The week of November 21, 2022, SwiftComply sent letters to customers who are on record as owning a backflow device. Backflow prevention asssemblies must be installed and maintained to comply with City of Dallas Chapter 49, Section 19.201 and 30 TAC 290.44. High-hazard backflow prevention assemblies must be tested annually by a licensed backflow tester.
Currently the City of Dallas does not require annual inspections of backflow devices installed on irrigation systems such as lawn sprinkler systems. Testing is only required if an irrigation backflow device is newly installed, repaired or replaced. If you do not own a backflow device and mistakenly received a letter, please disregard it. Water services will not be disrupted.
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The City of Dallas Water Utilities has established a cross connection control and backflow prevention program to ensure water quality. A cross connection is a physical connection between drinkable water and a liquid or gas that could make water unsafe to drink. Backflow is water flowing opposite of its intended direction, either from a loss of pressure in the supply lines or an increase in pressure on the customer's side.
Tester information
As of November 14, 2022, the City of Dallas moved to an online feature that allows testers to submit backflow test reports through SwiftComply. Test reports are no longer accepted through in-person drop off, email, fax or postal mail. The new software will increase on-time backflow tests, improve compliance and reduce administrative delays.
There will be a $10 fee to submit tests through the SwiftComply portal. This fee is only applicable for passed tests. Failed tests are not charged. Please note that participation in this program is required. To access the SwiftComply portal click the link below.
To enroll, visit the SwiftComply portal at this address: www.bftester.com/dallastx
On the enrollment page you can:
Request an Admin-style account where you can submit tests on behalf of testers in your company
Request individual Tester accounts
Submit your Testing Certification and Test Kit Information (Please note these are required to sign up)
View frequently asked questions
All Backflow Assembly Testers need to be
registered with the City of Dallas Building Inspection office, in addition to enrolling with SwiftComply. The form can be found here.
In addition to submitting the test report through SwiftComply, newly permitted assemblies (newly installed or replaced) shall be submitted to Building Inspection prior to the inspection.
If you have any questions regarding the Backflow Prevention Program, please contact DWUBackflowInspections@dallas.gov.