Cross Connection Control Report
The Arlington County Permit Office is CLOSED for in-person customer service. Many services are available online. Learn more.
Arlington’s cross connection control program protects the County’s water supply from contamination as required by state law. Learn more in the Virginia Administrative Code: Title 12. Health and Title 13. Housing.
The County inspects residential irrigation systems and other potential cross connections on residential properties after installation. After that first inspection, the owner may hire third-party inspectors, but there is not a requirement to do so.
The cross connection control program requires restaurants and commercial buildings to install backflow devices on their pipes. County inspectors inspect restaurants and commercial buildings annually for cross connection control compliance.
Prior to County inspection, property owners should complete the Cross Connection Control Report after having their backflow devices tested by a Virginia-licensed backflow device professional. The report requires the backflow device professional’s signature and license number. Submit the report by email, in person or by mail and retain a copy of the test results to give to the County inspector.
If a cross connection on your premises contaminates public drinking water, you are legally liable for ensuing damages. Arlington’s cross connection control program helps you avoid this outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cross connection?
A cross connection is a connection between a potable water supply and a non-potable source. At a cross connection, it is possible for contaminants to enter drinking water.
What is a backflow?
A backflow (backpressure or back siphonage) is a reversal of the flow of non-potable water or other substances through a cross connection and into the piping of a public water system. A sudden change in water pressure in the pipes could cause such a reversal. The reversed water flow could then exert suction that draws contaminated water into the drinking water.
If I’ve received a notice about an upcoming cross connection control compliance inspection, how should I prepare?
Prior to County inspection, you should have the backflow devices on your property tested by a Virginia-licensed backflow device professional. Complete the Cross Connection Control Report, which requires the backflow device professional’s signature and license number. Retain a copy of the test results to give to the County inspector. Once testing is complete, follow the instructions on the notice to schedule a County inspection.
What if an inspector cannot complete an inspection or confirm compliance during the initial inspection?
The inspector will leave a notice that s/he couldn’t complete the inspection. Prior to County inspection, you should have the backflow devices on your property tested by a Virginia-licensed backflow device professional. Complete the Cross Connection Control Report, which requires the backflow device professional’s signature and license number. Retain a copy of the test results to give to the County inspector. Once testing is complete, follow the instructions on the notice to schedule a County inspection. The County must receive the completed report within 14 days of the original notice.