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Backflow Prevention
Paradise Irrigation District has an active backflow prevention program as required by California Cross Connection Control Handbook, Section 3.2.2. and PID Policy and Procedures Chapter 6.14 RE: Cross Connection and Backflow Control (amended March 17, 2021). Backflow devices are designed to prevent the unintentional backward flow of water from one point to another. PID requires backflow devices to be used at the water connection as a condition of water service.
Your Backflow Device
Learn more about the backflow device by taking a quick look at the PDF below. Included in the guide is information about what a backflow device does, as well as things you should do (and shouldn't do) to keep it operating well.
For more information about your backflow device, call Customer Service at (530)877-4971.
Your Guide to Your Backflow Device (PDF)
Requirements
A Wilkins 975 XL2 backflow prevention device is required to be installed according to PID specification before water service will be granted.
Options
You have a choice on how you want to manage your backflow prevention:
Order from PID Using the Enrollment Form
PID employees can install most ordered devices within the 12-week window, however, there are some instances when the installation may require additional work and must be scheduled. You'll be charged $165.91 for installation and the annual maintenance fee will be split over 12 -months and applied to your monthly bill.
PID will install the interim backflow device and insulated cover at the current meter location or best suitable location if this is not an option. In some instances where the current meter is in a driveway or roadway, work may need to be scheduled to move the service lateral. This work may delay the interim backflow device installation timeframe.
Once installed, the customer can plumb their service line into the customer-facing side of the backflow device. Until the new meter is installed this is a temporary connection. Please do not plumb in to the device using permanent fixtures or methods.
Important Notice: The purpose of the backflow prevention device is to keep water flowing in the right direction and prevent water from your plumbing system from flowing back into the main water supply. The presence of a backflow device does not indicate potable water for vacant parcels where the post-2018 Camp Fire water advisory has not been lifted. If you need information about the water quality at your address refer to your advisory lifted letter or contact the district.
Get Started
Complete our Electronic Enrollment form to get started or call/come by the PID office, Monday through Friday between 9 am to 4 pm:
6332 Clark Road
Paradise CA 95969
Phone: 530-877-4974
Install & Maintain Your Own Backflow Prevention Device
PID charges a $70 administrative fee when you first install your backflow prevention device. This fee includes the pre-installation meeting and the post-installation inspection.
Get Started
- Call PID for a pre-install visit. During this visit PID can help you plan your installation, and review installation options.
- Install your Wilkins 975XL2 device according to PID's specifications. See the Installation Specifications Drawing (PDF). PID must approve the location and installation configuration.
- Schedule with PID your installation approval visit. NOTE: Subsequent inspection trips due to incorrect installation will result in additional fees.
- Contact an AWWA Certified tester to perform the initial inspection (view a list of testers), or have PID test the device.
- Submit your test to PID.
- Schedule your water turn on.
- Keep your device in working order, protected from freeze, and tested annually.
The state requires backflow prevention device to be tested annually by an American Water Works Association (AWWA) Certified backflow tester. Find a tester near you using the American Water Works Association's Credential Lookup page.
Submit Annual Test, Inspection sheet, and Tester Certification to:
PID - Attn: Backflow
6332 Clark Road
Paradise, CA 95969
Options Compared
| Details | Option 1 - PID-Maintained Device | Option 2 - Customer Maintained Device |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Cost | $60 year | Varies |
| Qualifies for FEMA-paid Device | Yes | No |
| Maintenance Provider | PID | Property Owner |
| 24/7 Emergency Service | Yes | No |
| Relevant Fees | $60 per year | The one-time installation fee is currently $70. Covers pre and post-installation inspections. Additional fees may apply for non-compliance. |
| Annual Testing | Included | Customer must hire an AWWA-certified tester |
| Customer Type | Customers with 2-inch or smaller connection | Any |
| Ownership of Device | PID | Property Owner |
| PID responsibility endpoint | Shut off valve on the customer side of the backflow prevention device. | Shut off valve a the meter. |
| Fees for testing/retesting | included | PID is not currently testing private devices |
| Responsible for future device replacement | PID | Property Owner |
| Device location and installation subject to PID specification requirements | Yes | Yes |
| New meter orders | The device will be installed with a meter and while FEMA funds remain will be included at no additional cost to the customer. | The customer will be required to install and test the backflow device according to PID specifications before water will be served to the property. |