State guide
Backflow testing in Texas
Texas water systems must require backflow protection where a hazard exists. Every required assembly is tested when installed, and assemblies that guard against health hazards are tested at least once a year. Testers need a Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester license from TCEQ.
What Texas requires
Texas water systems must adopt a plumbing ordinance or service agreement, require customer service inspections, and require backflow protection wherever a hazard exists. Every required assembly must be tested by a TCEQ-licensed tester when it is installed. Assemblies that protect against health hazards must be tested again at least once a year. For lower-hazard assemblies, such as many lawn sprinkler systems, the state asks only for the installation test, but a city or water system can require yearly tests in its own rules. The tester completes a test report for each assembly, and the water system gets the signed original and keeps the records. Fire lines can only be tested by a tester who works for an approved fire-line contractor.
Run by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program under 30 TAC § 290.44(h) (backflow and siphonage; testing in subsection h(4)), 30 TAC § 290.46(i) and (j) (plumbing ordinance; customer service inspections), 30 TAC § 290.47(f) (Appendix F: hazards and choice of assembly), TCEQ RG-478, Establishing and Managing an Effective Cross-Connection Control Program (Feb. 2026), TCEQ Form 20700, Backflow Prevention Assembly Test and Maintenance Report.
Source: law.cornell.edu · checked Oct 18, 2026
Who certifies testers
Texas testers hold a TCEQ license. You need a high school diploma or GED and two years of approved work experience. You take a TCEQ-approved 40-hour course, then pass a written exam at a computer-based testing site and a hands-on exam given by your training provider. The license lasts three years. Renewal takes 24 hours of continuing education. A BPAT license covers home, business, industrial and irrigation service, but fire lines only if you work for an approved fire-line contractor.
Source: tceq.texas.gov · checked Oct 18, 2026
Water utilities in Texas
Pick your water provider: it is the name on your water bill or on your test notice.
- ArlingtonArlington Water Utilities (City of Arlington)Sprinklers: every year, some systemsFiles in EnvirotraxTest an assembly right after it is installed, replaced or repaired, and whenever it is moved.
- AustinAustin WaterSprinklers: every year, some systemsFiles in WEIRSShut-off possibleEach assembly has a due month each year, set by Austin Water.
- DallasDallas Water UtilitiesSprinklers: when installed or repaired, some systemsFiles in SwiftComplyShut-off possibleHigh-hazard devices must be tested every year.
- Fort WorthFort Worth Water Department (Fort Worth Water)Sprinklers: every year, some systemsFiles in Vepo (Envirotrax)Shut-off possibleTest each assembly that needs a yearly test once every year.
- HoustonCity of Houston (Houston Public Works, Houston Water)Files in SwiftComplyShut-off possibleTest each assembly once a year.
- KilleenCity of Killeen Water & SewerSprinklers: every yearFiles in BSI OnlineShut-off possibleTest every year, counted from when the assembly was put in or last repaired.
- San AntonioSan Antonio Water System (SAWS)Sprinklers: every yearFiles in BSI OnlineShut-off possibleTest results must reach SAWS by June 30 every year.
Backflow testing in Texas: questions
Which Texas water utilities require yearly sprinkler backflow tests?
Of the 7 utilities on this site, 2 require a yearly test of lawn sprinkler backflow assemblies: Killeen and San Antonio.
Who certifies backflow testers in Texas?
Texas testers hold a TCEQ license. You need a high school diploma or GED and two years of approved work experience. You take a TCEQ-approved 40-hour course, then pass a written exam at a computer-based testing site and a hands-on exam given by your training provider. The license lasts three years. Renewal takes 24 hours of continuing education. A BPAT license covers home, business, industrial and irrigation service, but fire lines only if you work for an approved fire-line contractor.
Can a Texas utility shut off my water for a missed backflow test?
6 of the 7 utilities on this site say they can: Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Killeen and San Antonio. Each one sends notices first; see its page for the steps and fees.
Do fire sprinkler lines in Texas need backflow tests?
Yes, at Arlington, Austin, Fort Worth, Houston, Killeen and San Antonio, every year. Check each utility's page for which fire lines are covered.