Special to The Flash
The City of Stephenville is implementing a backflow prevention enforcement program to mitigate potential risks to our potable water supply. Backflow prevention devices are designed to prevent non-drinkable water from entering into the city’s water supply due to back siphonage. Common examples of non-drinkable water sources that could potentially contaminate the city’s water supply include irrigation systems and fire sprinkler systems. A backflow prevention device is required when systems such as these are connected to the water supply. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requires that these devices be tested annually to ensure the device is functioning properly. The city, as the water system purveyor, is subject to penalties if the TCEQ determines the potable water system is jeopardized due to non-compliant devices. Currently, there are approximately 1,600 privately owned and operated backflow prevention devices across the city and approximately 35% of those devices are non-compliant.
The goal of this program is to reduce the number of non-compliant devices. Owners that may have overlooked this testing mandate will be re-notified of the necessary actions to become compliant. A licensed plumber/backflow inspector will need to inspect the backflow device for those who receive the letter. If devices remain non-compliant it may result in enforcement actions that could include delinquent fees and ultimately, termination of water service.
Compliance is the primary objective of this program. Only properties with non-compliant devices will be notified. Please contact Heather Misemer, Permit Technician, at 254-918- 1224 if you receive a letter of non-compliance and need further information.
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