What is a cross-connection?

A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between a public water system or the customer’s potable water system and any source or system containing non-potable water or other substances.

    Common cross-connections:

  •         Private Wells – where the private well connection is connected to a service line receiving water from a public water supply. The untreated water could be pumped into the potable water     supply which serves the home and the public water system.
  •         Lawn sprinkler systems – where the stagnant/contaminated water from the sprinkler system could be drawn into the drinkable water supply for your home.

Show All Answers

1. Why does the City of Forest Lake need a Cross-Connection and Backflow Testing Program?
2. What is backflow?
3. What is a backflow prevention assembly or device?
4. What is the process for installing/replacing a backflow prevention assembly?
5. Why do backflow prevention assemblies need to be tested?
6. How often does the backflow prevention assembly need to be tested?
7. How can I contact a licensed backflow assembly tester/rebuilder?
8. When requesting a test for my backflow prevention assembly, how much should I expect to pay for this service?
9. What type of document needs to be returned to the city as proof that testing of the backflow prevention assembly was completed?
10. How can I verify that testing of my backflow prevention assembly has/has not been completed?
11. Does a lawn irrigation system require a backflow prevention assembly?
12. How long does a backflow prevention assembly last?
13. What is considered a “potential hazard” to the potable water supply?
14. Has the City of Forest Lake process for permitting or overseeing the inspection of new, relocated or repaired backflow prevention changed?
15. What is backpressure backflow?
16. What is back-siphonage?
17. What is a cross-connection?