‘BACKFLOW’ ORDINANCE

LRA members and City of Fort Lauderdale residents:

For any of you who may have received notices or heard about the new Cross-
Connection and Backflow ordinance, here is the information that you need to know:

First, the good news is the action described below has been suspended until further
notice. (see complete suspension notice at the end of this article)

Here are all of the facts about the Blackflow ordinance:

Why now?

On May 5, 2014 the state regulations (Florida Administrative Code (FAC) Chapter
62) related to protecting the public water supply was changed significantly. Part of
the new regulations require that certain commercial businesses, dedicated residential
and commercial irrigation systems, fire services and cooling towers must have an
approved testable backflow prevention device installed.

All connections, regardless of the installation date, need to come into compliance with
the new regulations. 

On April 21, 2015, the City codified a cross-connections and backflow ordinance in
order to be in compliance with state mandates (Section 28-152 through Section 28-
157 of City Code).

What if I don’t comply with local, state and federal mandates?

Your water service will be terminated to protect the public water system.

What is a cross-connection?

Cross-connection refers to any actual or potential physical connection between a
potable water line and any pipe, vessel or machine containing a non-potable fluid or
has the possibility of containing a non-potable fluid, solid or gas that could potentially
enter the potable water system by backflow.

What is backflow?

Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow of water, liquids, mixtures or substances
into the public water distribution pipe system from any source or sources.

When might backflow occur?

Inadequate plumbing and events such as water main breaks or fire hydrant use can
contribute to backflow conditions. Backflow may also occur when pressure in the
property owner’s equipment is greater than the pressure in the drinking water line. 

What is a backflow prevention assembly?

Backflow prevention assemblies are designed to prevent contaminated water or
chemicals from a property flowing back into the public drinking water supply system.

Why are backflow prevention assemblies required?

Backflow prevention assemblies are an important component of the City’s drinking
water protection program and are legally mandated under Florida rules for those

The Landings & Bay Colony

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President's Message

The Landings Residential Association

Terry Bond, President

Landings Residential Association

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