For Plumbers/Fire Sprinkler Contractors
Click Here to download the Backflow Prevention Device Design Data Sheet (Permit Application)
You do not need to print this document; you may edit the file directly from your device.
*Note: if you have difficulty downloading this file, there are physical copies available at our office. You may also email us at northchelmsfordwater@outlook.com for a digital copy.
The North Chelmsford Water District (NCWD) is committed to abiding by governing federal, state, and local regulations, including 310 CMR 22.22. As such, the NCWD and Town of Chelmsford have collaborated to implement a backflow prevention device permitting process. Effective immediately, no occupancy permits will be awarded for properties which are not in compliance with this process.
Prior to installing any testable backflow prevention devices (RPZs, DCVAs, PVBs, and SRVBs), you must abide by the following protocol:
- Complete the “Backflow Prevention Device Design Data Sheet (Permit Application)” in its entirety.
- Submit the application and associated schematic to northchelmsfordwater@outlook.com or by mail to/drop-off at our office located at 64 Washington St, North Chelmsford, MA 01863.
- Pay the backflow prevention device permit review and initial test fee of $100.00.
Subject to system complexity, our decision regarding your application will typically be returned by the next business day. Once your application is approved, the NCWD will notify the Town of Chelmsford Plumbing & Gas Inspector.
Note for Fire Sprinkler Contractors: the NCWD is not responsible for contacting the Chelmsford Fire Department regarding your backflow prevention device application. It is your responsibility to ensure compliance with 310 CMR 22.22, Sections 7(a)(2) and 7(a)(5) and submit the relevant documentation along with your backflow prevention device application.
Note for Installation: the NCWD is not responsible for providing test cocks. Test cocks must be included as part of device installation. The device will be manually failed if all test cocks are not installed.
Please be advised that your application may be rejected for incompletion, tampering, failure to pay the permit review/initial test fee, failing to meet the installation requirements established by 310 CMR 22.22, or other relevant reasons per the Water Superintendent’s discretion (310 CMR 22.22, Sections 7(b) and (c)).
Thank you for your understanding and compliance with the
North Chelmsford Water District’s Cross-Connection Control Program
.
Examples of Backflow Prevention Devices
Please note that the North Chelmsford Water District does not endorse any particular backflow prevention device manufacturer or company by using the images below. These images are simply meant to provide visual examples of these devices in relevant situations.
(Credit: Ettinger Engineering Associates)
Figure 1: Fire Suppression System with DCVA
(Credit: Backflow Prevention Journal)
Figure 2: Domestic Water System with RPZ Containment and Bypass
(Credit: Hessenauer Sprinkler Repair & Irrigation)
Figure 3: Irrigation System with PVB
For Commercial/Industrial/Apartment Property Owners
Please be advised that a single residential building containing 3 or more units is considered commercial for purposes of cross-connection control. We recommend that you review the “General Information” tab prior to reading this section.
As the property owner, it is your responsibility to comply with federal, state, and local regulations. If the water system at your property has or needs a testable backflow prevention device (RPZ, DCVA, PVB, or SRVB), you are responsible for complying with directives from our office to ensure the timely installation and testing of these devices, as well as paying for all associated fees.
| Device Type | Annual Testing Schedule | Annual Billing Schedule |
| RPZ (Non-Seasonal) | April and October | May and November |
| RPZ (Seasonal)* | April | May |
| DCVA | April | May |
| PVB | April | May |
| SRVB | April | May |
*Such as an RPZ used for irrigation or a pool only open during the summer
Please be advised of the following:
- You have 30 calendar days from the date of a cross-connection survey violation notice to install a backflow prevention device.
- You have 14 calendar days from the date of a backflow prevention device test violation notice to repair, replace, and schedule a re-test for a backflow prevention device.
- Failure to install, repair, replace, and schedule a test for a backflow prevention device will result in termination of your water service until such amends are made; you will be subject to water shut-off and restoration fees.
- The North Chelmsford Water District Ordinance establishes a non-residential containment policy, meaning that any non-residential property (except for residential buildings containing at least 3 units) must have a backflow prevention device installed directly after the water meter.
*Note: if you experience any difficulties with getting the work completed, contact our office at northchelmsfordwater@outlook.com. Any requests for extensions must be made in writing.
The current backflow prevention device testing fee is $80 per test (except for the initial device test immediately post-installation, which is $100 and includes reviewing the backflow prevention device application). Backflow prevention device testing invoices are mailed separately from your water bill.