Typically, the Plumbing Inspector will inform property owners, or business operators, of the need to install backflow protection in writing.  This document will specify what type and where backflow protection is required.

The most common types of backflow prevention devices utilized in the Village of Mount Prospect are double check backflow preventers and reduced pressure zone backflow preventers.  Double check devices are utilized to protect potable water systems from low and medium backflow risks.  Reduced pressure zone devices are used to protect against hazardous backflow risks.  If you are required to install a backflow preventer, it will probably be one, or combinations, of these devices.

The Village Code stipulates that property owners have up to 60 days to comply with a request to install a backflow prevention device.  However, in cases where the risk of contamination is extremely high or imminent, faster compliance may be necessary.

Any retrofit installation of a backflow preventer requires a plumbing permit.  Plumbing permits can be obtained by visiting the Community Development Department, 2nd Floor, Mount Prospect Village Hall, 50 South Emerson Street.  Please be aware that plumbing permit procedures often necessitate an on-site inspection by the Plumbing Inspector after the work has been completed.  Additional information about obtaining a plumbing permit can be found by following this link.

All backflow preventers must be installed by a licensed plumber with a Cross Connection Control Device Inspector (CCCDI) certification.  With only a few exceptions, State law prohibits the installation of backflow preventers by property owners, business operators, or "handymen" lacking CCCDI licensure.

In addition, any retrofit installation of a backflow preventer on a fire protection system requires hydraulic analysis by a licensed fire protection engineer.  The purpose of this analysis is to properly consider the effect of the backflow preventer on the operation of the fire sprinkler system.  This analysis, and it's conclusions, must be approved by the Village of Mount Prospect Fire Marshal.  Additional information about retrofit installation of backflow preventers on fire protection systems can be found by following this link.

Finally, after a backflow preventer has been installed and satisfactorily tested, a copy of the test results must be submitted to the Mount Prospect Public Works Department, Cross Connection Control Program, 1700 West Central Road.  Test reports should be submitted using the Village of Mount Prospect Backflow Assembly Test and Certification Report form.  In addition, a copy of this report must be continuously displayed on the device.

Along with each test report, a Cross Connection Control Program Administration Fee must be submitted.  This fee is $10 per device per year. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: Backflow preventers must be tested and certified each year.  For additional information about this requirement, please visit the Testing page on this web site.

Questions or concerns about compliance issues should be addressed to the Plumbing Inspector