Backflow prevention is a legal requirement for most commercial properties in Melbourne FL. These devices protect the public water supply from contamination by preventing water from flowing backward through the system — a situation that can introduce chemicals, bacteria, and other contaminants into the drinking water supply.
The City of Melbourne and Brevard County enforce backflow prevention requirements through their cross-connection control programs. Non-compliance can result in fines, water service disconnection, and liability in the event of a contamination incident.
Which Businesses Need Backflow Prevention
Any commercial property with a potential cross-connection requires a backflow preventer. Common examples include restaurants and food service establishments with commercial dishwashers and chemical dispensing systems, medical and dental offices with sterilization equipment, auto shops and car washes with chemical injection systems, and landscaping companies with irrigation systems connected to the potable water supply.
HVAC systems with boiler loops, fire suppression systems, and any connection to a non-potable water source also require backflow protection. If your business has any equipment that could potentially contaminate the water supply through a cross-connection, you need a backflow prevention assembly.
Annual Testing Requirements
Florida requires that backflow prevention assemblies be tested at least once per year by a certified backflow assembly tester. The tester performs a series of diagnostic checks to verify the device is functioning correctly, then submits a test report to the local water authority.
If the device fails testing, it must be repaired or replaced and retested within 30 days. Continued non-compliance triggers enforcement actions from the water utility, which can include water service disconnection as a last resort.
Keeping your backflow devices maintained year-round, not just at testing time, prevents failures and extends the device lifespan. Annual testing costs typically range from $50-$150 per device in the Melbourne FL area.
For backflow prevention installation, testing, and repair in Melbourne and Brevard County, contact our commercial plumbing team. Our certified technicians handle everything from initial installation to annual testing and compliance documentation.
Written & Reviewed By
Inlet Mechanical Team
The Inlet Mechanical team brings over 85 years of combined experience in HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical construction across Florida. Our licensed professionals hold Florida Mechanical HVAC License (CMC1250858) and Florida Plumbing License (CFC1433105), along with EPA Section 608 certifications. Based in Brevard County, we serve residential, commercial, and industrial clients with expert knowledge of Florida building codes, climate-specific HVAC solutions, and local plumbing requirements. Every article is reviewed by our licensed technicians to ensure accuracy and practical value for Melbourne-area homeowners and businesses.