Backflow type finder, county rules, annual test scheduling & FDEP cross-connection
FDEP / FPC 2023 / FAC 62-555| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Backflow device required | RP (Reduced Pressure) — statewide minimum per FAC 62-610.470 |
| Cross-connection to potable | Strictly prohibited — $10,000/day fine; must have physical separation |
| Meter color | Purple pipe, purple meter, purple valve tags — all reclaimed components must be purple-coded |
| Setback from wells | 75 ft from any potable well; 200 ft from Class I wells |
| Annual test | Required — certified backflow tester only (FL licensed CFC or CBC with backflow cert) |
| Signage | "RECLAIMED WATER — DO NOT DRINK" signs required at point of use |
| FDEP permit | Reclaimed water use permits issued by FDEP for new connections to reclaimed mains |
| Responsible utility | Local utility (SFWMD, SWFWMD, or other WMD) enforces cross-connection control |
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License type | FL-licensed CFC (Certified Florida Contractor) — Plumbing Division, or CBC (Certified Building Contractor) with backflow certification endorsement |
| Backflow cert | AWWA (American Water Works Assoc.) Level I or II backflow certification, or utility-approved equivalent |
| Test equipment | Must use calibrated differential pressure gauge kit; kit must be calibrated annually |
| Test report | Written report required after each test — submitted to property owner AND to local utility's cross-connection control program |
| Failure action | If device fails test — system must be shut off until device is repaired and re-tested; tester must document failure and corrective action |
| Repair restrictions | Only the licensed plumber or certified backflow specialist may perform device repairs — homeowners cannot self-repair and self-certify |
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Costs vary by scope, home size, and your Florida region. Use the calculator above for a Florida-specific estimate rather than a one-size-fits-all price.
Pricing depends on the size and layout of your home, the materials and fixtures you choose, your Florida region and local labor rates, and permit fees. Work that is more complex or harder to access generally costs more.
In Florida, minor maintenance may be DIY, but anything beyond that generally calls for a licensed plumber, and many jobs require a permit and inspection. When a permit, or your main water or drain lines are involved, hire a Florida-licensed plumber.
It depends on the cause and your specific policy. Sudden, accidental damage is more often covered than gradual wear-and-tear or maintenance - confirm the details with your insurer.
Many common jobs are completed the same day, while larger projects can take longer. Your licensed plumber can confirm a timeline after assessing your home.
Planning estimate, not a quote — confirm with a licensed Florida plumber. Confidence is qualitative: ranges reflect this page’s Florida assumptions, not a guaranteed price.
Estimates on this page are Florida-specific and reflect Irrigation Backflow Guide for typical Florida homes.
From this page: Costs vary by scope, home size, and your Florida region. Use the calculator above for a Florida-specific estimate rather than a one-size-fits-all price.
Your actual cost depends on your home's condition, layout, and local labor and permit rates.
From this page: Pricing depends on the size and layout of your home, the materials and fixtures you choose, your Florida region and local labor rates, and permit fees. Work that is more complex or harder to access generally costs more.
Generally raises cost: harder access, older homes, added permits and inspections, premium fixtures or materials, and emergency or after-hours work.
Generally lowers cost: easy access, bundling several items in one visit, standard fixtures, and off-peak scheduling.
Curated Florida tools and resources related to this page.
Last reviewed: July 1, 2026 (US Eastern)
Reviewed by the FL Plumbing Tools editorial team.
Sources: Florida plumbing cost research and Florida Building Code / local authority-having-jurisdiction (AHJ) permit references.
Florida reference: Estimates and guidance reflect Florida labor rates, permitting, hard water, humidity, and coastal conditions.
Updates: Reviewed periodically and updated as Florida codes, permit fees, and market rates change.