Commercial Services

Backflow Prevention /Cross-Connection Control

To keep the water supply safe from contaminants that could be introduced into the water system through backflow, back siphonage or backpressure from a customer's plumbing system, Scottsdale administers the Cross-connection Control Program.

The program requires the installation, testing and maintenance of approved backflow prevention assemblies on all plumbing systems per the city's plumbing codes and City Ordinances. Commercial water customers must have their Backflow Assemblies inspected annually and will be notified by mail when their inspections are due.

Contractors doing any work on a Backflow Prevention Assembly – including, but not limited to, testing, installation, retrofits and replacements – must be certified backflow testers (PDF).

Additional Resources

For additional information contact Water Quality at 480-312-5668 or Backflow Testing at [email protected].

Temporary Water Service For Construction Projects

Scottsdale offers four types of temporary water meters for construction projects, see table below. For additional information on meter types, please contact Inspection Services at 480-312-5750. Applications for new temporary water meters or to change an existing temporary meter are at the bottom of this section.

Type Description Standard Detail
Hydrant Meter Typically for long term, large-scale projects and connects directly to the city's water distribution system via a fire hydrant. Hydrant must be within 50 feet of project location. Available in 1-inch and 3 -inch. #2380
Blow-Off Meters Typically for long term, large-scale projects when a hydrant is not readily available and connects directly to the city's water distribution system via a blow-off valve. Available in 1-inch and 3-inch. #2381
Water Service Meters Typically used for construction trailers or temporary nurseries and meter is installed on a service line above ground. Available in 1-inch only. #2382
Temporary Construction Meter Used for water main installation when new infrastructure is constructed and a new connection to the city's infrastructure is being installed. Requires right-of-way permit from Development Services. Available in 3-inch only. #2346

Additional details:

  • All meters are subject to base fees and volumetric  charges
  • All meters require a backflow prevention device (Standard Detail #2346 (PDF)), which must be inspected and approved by the city before a meter will be delivered.
  • Contractors are responsible for any costs required to repair a fire hydrant, water meter or other fixtures until the city resumes possession.
  • Submittal of a request does not guarantee authorization of a temporary water service.

If you need assistance determining the type of meter needed, please contact the appropriate field inspector.