Austin, TX
Backflow testing in Austin
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
In Austin, backflow prevention assemblies must be tested when installed and periodically after that by a Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester who is licensed by TCEQ and registered with Austin Water. The tester files a Test and Maintenance Report online within five calendar days of each test.
What's different in Austin
Testers working in Austin Water's service area must hold a TCEQ Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester license and be registered with Austin Water. [1]
A complete Test and Maintenance Report must be submitted for each assembly within five calendar days of the test. [1]
Since July 25, 2022, Austin Water accepts test reports only online through its WEIRS database; paper copies are no longer accepted. [1]
Austin Water offers an Irrigation Upgrade rebate of up to $1,000 for improving an irrigation system's water efficiency. [2]
Who can test your assembly in Austin
Ask the tester for both credentials before they start: a current TCEQ Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester license and registration with Austin Water. An unregistered tester can't file results in Austin Water's system, so the test wouldn't count. Austin Water's Water Protection team (512-972-1060, option 5) can answer questions about requirements.
After the test
Report filed online
The tester submits the Test and Maintenance Report through WEIRS within five calendar days.
Failed test
Repairs, often new check valve parts or seals, are made and the assembly is retested before a passing report is filed.
Keep a copy
Ask for the report for your records; it helps if Austin Water's records ever show a missing test.
Upgrading an older irrigation system
If a test reveals an aging system, Austin Water's Irrigation Upgrade rebate (up to $1,000) can offset efficiency improvements. Check the rebate rules before work starts, since pre-approval is common. For what a backflow preventer does, the device types and how a test works anywhere, see backflow testing.
Further reading: How backflow happens and which devices homes use.
Common questions
Who is allowed to test backflow preventers in Austin?
A tester licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) who is also registered with Austin Water.
How fast must an Austin backflow test report be filed?
Within five calendar days of the test, for each assembly tested.
Can my Austin tester mail in a paper report?
No. Since July 25, 2022, Austin Water only accepts reports submitted online through the WEIRS database.
What happens if my Austin backflow preventer fails?
It needs repair, usually new internal parts, and a retest. Only a passing report clears the requirement.
Does an Austin lawn sprinkler system need a backflow preventer?
Irrigation systems connected to drinking water need backflow protection, which is why sprinkler systems are the most common residential assemblies tested.
Who do I call with backflow questions at Austin Water?
Austin Water's Water Protection team at 512-972-1060, option 5.
Is there an Austin rebate for upgrading my irrigation system?
Yes. Austin Water's Irrigation Upgrade rebate offers up to $1,000 for efficiency improvements, subject to program rules.
How can I tell if an Austin tester is legitimate?
Ask for their TCEQ license number and confirm they're registered with Austin Water before booking.
Why does Austin require backflow testing?
Assemblies wear out. Testing confirms they still stop irrigation or process water from flowing back into the public drinking water system.
Do I need a plumber to repair a failed backflow assembly?
Repairs are typically done by the tester or a licensed plumber; the assembly must then be retested.
More plumbing help in Austin
- Water Line Repair in AustinWater line leaks in Austin: Austin Water owns the line to the meter box near the sidewalk, owners own everything past it.
- Backflow Testing in TexasBackflow testing in Texas: the TCEQ tester license anyone testing or repairing assemblies must hold, test-at-install and annual rules, and gauge accuracy checks.
- Backflow Testing: the full guideWhat backflow is, which homes and businesses need backflow preventers, how annual backflow testing works, and what happens if a device fails.
- Plumbing in AustinLocal water, housing and climate conditions, and the calls Austin homes need most.
How other cities handle it
- Backflow testing in San AntonioSAWS backflow testing rules for San Antonio: the June 30 annual deadline, the codes behind it, reminder notices, and what a 10-day notice means.
- Backflow testing in DenverDenver Water's backflow rules: annual testing, the May–September irrigation testing season, required device types, 30-day reminders, and where results go.
- Backflow testing in SeattleSeattle Public Utilities backflow testing rules: annual tests by your anniversary date, Washington-certified testers, reporting, and non-compliance charges.
- Backflow testing in PortlandPortland Water Bureau backflow rules: yearly testing by a state-certified tester, the spring timing it prefers, reminder letters with labels, and shutoff risk.
- Backflow testing in CharlotteCharlotte Water backflow rules: residential irrigation tested every 3 years, residential domestic yearly, approved testers, and RP assemblies on irrigation.
- Backflow testing in RaleighRaleigh Public Utilities backflow rules: residential irrigation tested by July 1 every three years, commercial yearly, owner-paid certified testing, and contacts.
- Backflow testing in TampaCity of Tampa Water Department backflow rules: residential tests every two years, commercial yearly, certified technicians, and the 7-day online reporting rule.
- Backflow testing in Salt Lake CitySalt Lake City Public Utilities backflow rules: tests within 10 days of installation and yearly after, which homes need protection, and secondary water.
- Backflow testing in Colorado SpringsColorado Springs Utilities backflow rules: who must test annually, the July 1 deadline, the $405 fine, licensed testers entering results, and single-family guidance.
- Backflow testing in Fort WorthFort Worth backflow rules: annual tests for commercial and health-hazard assemblies, a three-year cycle for low-hazard irrigation, and registered testers.
- Backflow testing for JEA customers in JacksonvilleJEA residential backflow rules: testing at least every two years by JEA Qualified Vendors, dual checks replaced every five years, and reclaimed-water irrigation.
- Backflow testing in Fort LauderdaleFort Lauderdale backflow rules: residential irrigation tested every two years, commercial yearly, only PVB or RP devices on irrigation meters, and certified testers.
- Backflow testing in DallasDallas backflow rules: lawn irrigation assemblies don't need annual tests, only when new, repaired or replaced; high-hazard assemblies need annual registered tests.
- Backflow testing in HoustonHouston backflow testing: testing companies must register with the city, testers need TCEQ licenses, and gauges need annual calibration reports filed with Houston.
- Backflow testing in PhoenixPhoenix backflow rules: assemblies tested at least yearly, 60 days to test after the reminder letter, then a 72-hour disconnection notice. Who needs one at home.
- Backflow testing in PhiladelphiaPWD backflow rules: test at installation, after any repair and yearly by a City-certified technician, file Form 79-770 within 48 hours.
Sources (2)
- City of Austin, Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Information · checked 2026-10-03
- City of Austin, Rebates, Tools & Programs · checked 2026-10-03