Backflow Prevention Devices

Backflow prevention is the process of preventing water from flowing in the reverse direction from a potentially polluted or contaminated source into the reticulated drinking water supply

This is achieved by installing a backflow prevention device, such as a one-way valve, which prevents contaminants from entering the potable water system. Backflow prevention devices are available in both testable and non-testable types, depending on the level of risk associated with the potential contamination. Testable devices must undergo annual testing to ensure they are operating correctly and providing adequate protection

Backflow is typically caused by a cross-connection, which is any point within a water system where a contaminant or pollutant could come into contact with the drinking water supply. Cross-connections may include irrigation systems, industrial equipment, chemical storage facilities, or any piping arrangement that provides access to the potable water network.

Where to start

Backflow prevention starts within a property boundary by isolating a possible contamination source from the town mains or storage tanks (rainwater tanks) from the tap or appliance.

Examples of potential sources of contamination:

  • Fire Hose Reels Systems
  • Irrigation Systems
  • Vehicle and Bin Wash Bays
  • Grease Trap Installations

Examples of properties requiring backflow prevention:

  • Hotels, motels, and unit complexes
  • Vehicle repair and maintenance workshops
  • Retail and commercial premises
  • Caravan parks
  • Medical and dental practices
  • Car and plant washing facilities
  • Dry cleaners and commercial laundries
  • Hospitals and funeral homes
  • Sporting clubs and clubhouses
  • Childcare centres and kindergartens
  • Water-carting vehicles

About the Backflow Prevention Program

Council's Backflow Prevention Program helps safeguard Ipswich's drinking water by maintaining records of all testable backflow prevention devices and ensuring they are properly tested and maintained.

Backflow Prevention Device Register

Under the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019, Council maintains a register of testable backflow prevention devices and administers a program for their registration, routine testing, and ongoing maintenance.

Property Owner Responsibilities

Owners of testable backflow prevention devices are responsible for ensuring their devices remain compliant with legislative requirements. Property owners must:

  1. Register each testable backflow prevention device with Council and pay the applicable annual registration fee.
  2. Arrange an annual test of each device by an endorsed backflow tester.

Failure to register or test a device may result in a penalty of up to 20 penalty units per device.

Licensed Plumber Responsibilities

Under the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018, an endorsed backflow tester must:

  • Conduct the annual test of each testable backflow prevention device; and
  • Submit the test results to Council.

Results can be submitted by:

  1. Email: plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au
  2. Post: Ipswich City Council, PO Box 191, IPSWICH QLD 4305
  3. In person: Ground Floor, 1 Nicholas Street, IPSWICH

Test results must be submitted within 10 business days of the inspection or test being completed.  Penalties may apply where an endorsed backflow tester fails to submit the required documentation within the prescribed timeframe.

Registration Fees and Testing Notices

Registration fees apply to all new and additional testable backflow prevention devices. Fees are determined by the property's site classification and the number of devices installed.

For existing registrations, Council issues the following notices annually:

  • Annual Renewal Notice
  • Reminder Notice

These notices remind owners to arrange testing by the required due date and pay the annual registration fee. Council will continue to issue reminder notices until testing has been completed and all applicable fees have been paid. Current fees are available at Council's Fees and Charges.

For payment options, refer to Planning & Development Fee Payments

Fact Sheet

Additional information for property owners is contained in the Backflow Prevention Devices(PDF, 261KB) fact sheet.

Contact Us

For further Backflow Prevention Device enquiries please contact our friendly Plumbing Section on:

T l 07 3810 6130 E l PlanDev@ipswich.qld.gov.au F l 07 3281 7085

Office Hours | Monday to Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm excluding public holidays.

Street Address l Ground Floor - 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich
Postal Address l Plumbing Section - PO Box 191, Ipswich QLD 4305 Australia.

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