Cross Connection Program

The City maintains a database containing all the permitted backflow assemblies in Silverton. It is your responsibility to have your backflow assembly tested annually, during the month previously tested, between January 1 and June 1. The City currently sends out a courtesy reminder in the spring. Do not wait for the reminder; schedule your test during the month it was scheduled last year. All assemblies must be tested at least once annually so you do not need the reminder to schedule your test.  

It is the customer’s responsibility to schedule the test and make payment arrangements. Upon completion of the test, the customer will be given a copy and the tester will submit the results to the City. 

Examples include residential fire systems, wells or auxiliary water systems, lawn irrigation systems, boilers, and swimming pools and hot tubs that are hard piped for filling purposes.

A cross connection is any connection between piping that carries drinking water (also known as potable) and the piping or fixtures that carry other types of water or substances that are not safe to drink (also known as non-potable), and any matter that may change the color, taste, quality, or odor of water.

The federal Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) 42 U.S.C. 300f to 300j-26 has jurisdiction over the public health aspects of the drinking water supply. The Oregon Health Authority regulates public water systems in our state, including cross connection control, through Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs). One such rule is OAR 333-61-0070, which requires water districts to administer a cross connection control program that will protect the potable water supply. The City of Silverton, as required by OAR 333-61-0070, has passed an ordinance on cross connection control, Silverton Municipal Code Chapter 13.20.