Frequently Asked Questions

Reversal of water flow from an unapproved source to the public water supply. Backflow can carry pollutants and contaminants back into the public water system.

Any water source NOT approved by NC Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDENR) for quality and safety. This includes some residential and commercial connections.

In accordance with the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act, North Carolina Administrative Code, NC Plumbing and Building Codes, all water suppliers shall have a program to eliminate potential and actual cross-connections.

A mechanical device that separates approved and unapproved water sources, which prevents contamination in a backsiphon or backpressure situation.  They are the property and responsibility of the lot owner.

Backflow devices are required, but not limited to the following:

• Residential and commercial lawn irrigation systems
• Fire suppression systems
• Chemical plants with industrial manufacturing
• Medical and dental treatment facilities
• Commercial facilities
• Pest control buildings
• Schools
• Swimming pools
• Other establishments that, by building code, use equipment that potentially causes backflow and those listed in the Town backflow ordinance.

Only technicians who have passed a North Carolina approved certification course may install, test, or maintain backflow preventers.

Link to Certified Testers.

All customers connected to the Town of Southern Pines water distribution system.

Yes, all exterior RPZ backflow devices are required to be in a protective, above-ground box.

Upon installation or reinstallation, after any maintenance, and annually thereafter (residential irrigation ONLY are every three years). If you remove your backflow device for the winter, it must be retested after it is reinstalled. 

Residents should keep a copy for themselves, and ensure that the backflow technician contacts BSI Online and have the test data placed in their online system.

PHONE: 1-800-414-4990
FAX: 1-888-414-4990
EMAIL: bsionline@backflow.com

After your information is in this database, residents will be assigned their customer confirmation number (CCN). They can use this number to ensure their device is listed on the BSI website.

Devices must be installed within ten (10) feet of the domestic water meter. If you have a designated yard (irrigation) meter, the BFP must be installed within ten (10) feet of the yard meter. Some exceptions may be allowed for fire suppression systems or where installation is not feasible due to facility design. ALL exceptions will be reviewed by Town officials to make FINAL determination.

Yes, but once the meter is installed, the customer has 90 days to return backflow test data to BSI Online.