The State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water (Water Board) has adopted the Cross Connection Control Policy Handbook, requiring testers of meter protection backflow assemblies obtain a certificate issued by a Water Board recognized organization. Public Health is unable to meet the requirements of the Water Board to become a recognized organization for certifying testers.
A meter protection backflow assembly is a device installed directly after the water meter to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the public water system, especially from industrial or commercial plumbing systems.
Yes, for internal protection backflow assemblies only. Beginning July 1, 2025, Public Health-issued certifications for testing meter protection backflow assemblies will no longer be valid.
You will need to obtain a certification from a Water Board-recognized organization. A list of recognized certifying agencies can be found on the Water Board's website.
Yes. Public Health will continue to operate its certification program for testers who focus solely on certifying internal protection backflow assemblies.
Yes, if you are planning to focus solely on internal protection backflow assemblies testing.
No. Certification from a Water Board-recognized organization will allow you to test both meter protection and internal protection backflow assemblies.
Public Health began notifying all certified testers in February 2025. Follow-up letters and website updates are being provided to ensure all certificate holders have the information needed to comply with the new standards.
If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact the Cross Connections & Water Pollution Control Program at (626) 430-5290.
Last Updated: June 2025
