Cross-Connection Control & Backflow Prevention Program

Thornton has implemented an operational backflow and cross-connection control program. A cross-connection control program is essential because controlling cross-connections and preventing backflow is critical to ensuring the safety of the drinking water we provide to our residents. 

It’s up to us to ensure that all backflow prevention assemblies within the water distribution system are tested and maintained annually.

Facility Owners: See Important Information to the right for testing and inspection information.

What is a Cross Connection?

A cross-connection is a direct arrangement of a piping line that allows the potable water supply to be connected to a line that contains a contaminant. An example is the common garden hose attached to a sill cock with the end of the hose lying in a cesspool. Other examples are a garden hose attached to a service sink with the end of the hose submerged in a tub full of detergent, supply lines connected to bottom-fed tanks, supply lines connected to boilers.

What is Backflow?

Backflow is unwanted flow of water in the reverse direction. Back pressure and back siphonage are the two types of backflow.

Annual Inspections

The city looks for potential risks to the water distribution system via annual inspection of all commercial, industrial, and non-single family residences (townhomes and apartments) properties. If the plumbing system inside of your building were built to code, these risks would be well-managed. However, older buildings may need to be upgraded to current plumbing requirements.

Additionally, all commercial, industrial, and non-single-family residences (townhomes and apartments) must have approved backflow devices installed and tested annually to comply with the city’s Cross-Connection Control & Backflow Prevention Program.

Backflow preventers or cross-connection devices are required by Thornton City Ordinance 74-156. Operational tests by a Certified Backflow Technician must be conducted on all the necessary backflow prevention assemblies at installation and at least annually after that. Test results must be submitted online at Backflow Solutions, Inc. before the annual test due date.

Testing Companies

Many backflow testing companies serve Thornton. The city of Thornton does not recommend any testing company over another. Please contact us for further information regarding the testing process or requirements.