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Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Information

To test backflow prevention assemblies in the Austin Water distribution area, Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers (BPATs) must be licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and registered with Austin Water. BPATs play an important role in protecting the public water supply by testing and repairing backflow prevention assemblies.

For more information, contact the Austin Water Protection team by phone at 512-972-1060, option 5, or via email at awcrossconnection@austintexas.gov.

Testing Standards

Backflow prevention assemblies must be tested for operational effectiveness using methods approved by the TCEQ and described in the University of Southern California's Cross Connection Manual (USC-CCM). Each BPAT must use equipment calibrated by an approved gauge testing company within acceptable tolerances specified by the USC-CCM.

BPATs must comply with all applicable TCEQ licensing and certification requirements. Enforcement of state licensing requirements is the responsibility of the appropriate state agency.

Test and Maintenance Reports

Each BPAT must submit a complete and legible Test and Maintenance Report (TMR) to Austin Water for each assembly tested within five calendar days of the test. As of July 25, 2022, all TMRs must be submitted online through the WEIRS database — paper copies are no longer accepted.

Each TMR must include:

BPA physical address and location on the premises
Cause requiring backflow protection
BPA manufacturer, size, model number and serial number
BPA operational test results
Description of repairs, if applicable, and retest results after repairs
Name of owner or occupant responsible for the BPA
Name of owner's representative
Owner's complete mailing address
BPAT printed name, signature and license number
Test gauge serial number
Date of operational test

Illegal Installations

Each BPAT must document any illegal or unapproved BPA installations or unprotected potential backflow or cross-connection sources and submit that documentation to Austin Water.

BPA or Hazard Removal

When a BPA is removed, the BPAT must submit a TMR to Austin Water indicating the assembly has been removed or replaced. If the hazard has not been eliminated, the BPA must be replaced to maintain uninterrupted backflow prevention. If the hazard is eliminated, the BPA may remain in place, but the elimination must be reported to the Utility Compliance Services Division so the assembly's out-of-service status can be recorded in the WEIRS database and testing requirements removed.

Compliance and Enforcement

Austin Water reviews records and conducts investigations to determine compliance with applicable rules. Falsifying records submitted to Austin Water will result in criminal prosecution. Falsification includes:

Submitting a TMR without actually conducting the operational test
Intentionally submitting inaccurate testing results
Submitting a name, signature or certification number other than that of the person who performed the test
Testing a BPA before installation and submitting the TMR as if the test occurred after installation
Using a test gauge that does not meet calibration specifications
Using unapproved or unregistered testing equipment

Other violations may result in a Notice of Violation or other administrative enforcement response. BPATs who receive three notices of violation within a two-year period will have their City of Austin registration suspended for one year.

BPAT Registration

In-person registrations are no longer accepted. Submit registration materials by mail or email.

Obtaining a TCEQ License

To receive a TCEQ BPAT license, applicants must complete a 40-hour TCEQ-accredited backflow prevention course, pass the TCEQ license exam and pay the applicable fee. See TCEQ Occupational Licenses: Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester for details.

Registering with Austin Water

After receiving a TCEQ license, submit the following to Austin Water:

A completed Water Protection Technician Registration Application (PDF)
A completed Backflow Gauge Registration Form (PDF) — not required if the tester will use their employer's existing registered gauges
A photo of the front and back of the test gauge
A calibration certificate showing the gauge passed calibration requirements within the last 12 months
A copy of your current TCEQ BPAT license
A copy of your driver's license or passport

Incomplete or unsigned forms will not be processed.

Submit by mail or email:

Austin Water, Utility Compliance Services Division
3907 South Industrial Drive, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78744

awcrossconnection@austintexas.gov

City registration remains in effect for the duration of the TCEQ license, not to exceed three years.

Renewing Your Registration

To renew a TCEQ BPAT license, complete 24 hours of TCEQ-accredited continuing education, including eight hours of practical skills. After renewing, email proof of renewal to awcrossconnection@austintexas.gov.

To update technician details, submit a new registration form with the updated information by mail or email.

After Registration

Once registered, Water Protection staff will enter your license and gauge information in the WEIRS database and email instructions on how to:

Complete Test and Maintenance Report forms correctly
Log in to and navigate the WEIRS database
Submit TMRs electronically
Update or renew your registration

Approved Backflow Gauge Testing Companies

Calibration of backflow test kits is required to ensure they are functioning properly. The following companies provide approved calibration services in the Austin area:

Company	Address	Phone
Fluid Meter Service Corp	7304 McNeil Drive, Suite 604, Austin, TX 78729	512-258-3594
Test Gauge and Backflow Supply	3321 Garden Brook Drive, Farmers Branch, TX 75234	469-206-3741

To add your company to this list, email your company name, address and phone number to awcrossconnection@austintexas.gov.

Forms and Resources