Dallas, TX
Backflow testing in Dallas
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
Dallas doesn't require annual testing of residential lawn irrigation backflow assemblies. Testing is required when an irrigation assembly is newly installed, repaired or replaced. High-hazard assemblies are different: they need annual tests by a licensed tester registered with the City of Dallas, under City Code Chapter 49, Section 29 and state rules.
What's different in Dallas
Annual inspections aren't mandatory for irrigation systems such as lawn sprinklers; testing is required for newly installed, repaired or replaced irrigation backflow devices. [1]
High-hazard backflow prevention assemblies require annual testing by a licensed backflow tester registered with the City of Dallas. [1]
Installation and maintenance must follow City of Dallas Chapter 49, Section 29, and Texas Administrative Code 290.44. [1]
When Dallas requires a test
| Situation | Test? |
|---|---|
| Existing lawn irrigation, no changes | Not annually |
| New irrigation assembly | Yes, at installation |
| Repaired or replaced irrigation assembly | Yes |
| High-hazard assembly (any use) | Every year |
Different from Fort Worth
Next door, Fort Worth puts low-hazard irrigation on a three-year cycle; see Fort Worth backflow testing. Statewide tester licensing is covered on Texas backflow testing.
Common questions
Does Dallas require annual sprinkler backflow tests?
No; residential irrigation assemblies aren't tested annually.
When must a Dallas irrigation backflow be tested?
When it's newly installed, repaired or replaced.
Which Dallas assemblies need yearly tests?
High-hazard assemblies.
Who can test backflow in Dallas?
A licensed backflow tester registered with the City of Dallas.
Which Dallas code covers backflow?
Chapter 49, Section 29, along with Texas Administrative Code 290.44.
Is Dallas stricter than Fort Worth on irrigation backflow?
Less frequent for existing low-hazard irrigation; Fort Worth uses a three-year cycle.
Do I need a test after replacing my Dallas backflow device?
Yes, before it goes back into service.
What makes a Dallas assembly high hazard?
Conditions where backflow could introduce a health hazard, as classified by the utility.
Where do Dallas testers file reports?
With Dallas Water Utilities through its backflow test report process.
Does Texas license backflow testers?
Yes, TCEQ licenses testers statewide.
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How other cities handle it
- Backflow testing in AustinAustin Water's backflow testing rules: who may test, the 5-day report deadline, online filing, and the irrigation rebates that pair with an upgrade.
- 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 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 (1)
- Dallas Water Utilities, Backflow Test Reports · checked 2026-10-03