Milton looks to finish implementation of backflow policy

Milton is working to complete the implementation of its backflow prevention policy for water accounts that have irrigation systems. The process began nearly six years ago. 

In August 2019, the town adopted its backflow prevention policy, which was mandated by the state. The policy was put in place to prevent properties with their own irrigation systems from having backflow, which could present contamination hazards, enter the town’s water system.

Town Manager Kristy Rogers said the town itself complied with the state’s regulations in November 2023, but private irrigation systems are under ongoing deadlines. Rogers said commercial and irrigation accounts are subject to annual testing certification of their backflow prevention devices. If the deadlines are not complied with, the town has the right to enforce up to and including terminating water service. 

A backflow prevention device is an attachment that goes onto a water pipe and enables water to flow in one direction, similar to a control valve. In a public water system like Milton’s, it allows town water to flow to individual properties but stops backward flow to the main water supply. Since February 2024, all new construction in town is inspected for compliance with the backflow prevention policy, which is enforced by the water department. 

Mayor John Collier said the deadline for compliance for non-town systems is October. He said implementation of the ordinance was delayed by previous administrations after the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020. Installation of backflow prevention devices is the responsibility of the property owner, as the town’s responsibility stops at the curb line.