What matters here
Fort Worth irrigation work is permit-heavy. A Development Services permit is required before work begins, and all installed, altered, or repaired irrigation backflows must be tested by a City-registered BPAT.
Irrigation
City of Fort Worth Water Backflow Program irrigation backflow rules
Fort Worth irrigation work is permit-heavy. A Development Services permit is required before work begins, and all installed, altered, or repaired irrigation backflows must be tested by a City-registered BPAT.
Utility: City of Fort Worth Water Backflow Program
Last verified: 2026-04-04
Due basis: All backflow protection assemblies must be tested on installation, repair, or relocation and annually after that. Commercial-class irrigation backflows are also tested annually.
Highlights
- A permit is required before irrigation backflow work begins.
- A homeowner may do installation at their own residence, but other installers must be licensed plumbers or irrigators registered as Fort Worth contractors.
- Commercial-class irrigation backflows are tested annually.
Workflow
Workflow
- Pull the Fort Worth permit before starting irrigation work.
- Use the correct contractor type for installation.
- Have a City-registered BPAT test the assembly and submit the result through VEPO before inspection closeout.
Residential
- Homeowners can install an irrigation system at their own residence, but testing and inspection still route through Fort Worth's registered-BPAT and permit workflow.
- Residential users usually hit the City process when an irrigation assembly is installed, altered, repaired, or needs inspection closeout.
Commercial and managed properties
- Commercial properties carry the heaviest procedural load because annual testing, VEPO submission, and onsite inspection records all matter together.
- Incomplete paperwork can fail inspection even when the field work was already performed.
Tester routing
Use the governing authority's official tester list first, then only treat any sponsor placement as secondary routing.
FAQ
Local questions people actually ask
Does City of Fort Worth Water Backflow Program require annual backflow testing?
Upon installation, repair, or relocation; and annually thereafter. All backflow protection assemblies must be tested on installation, repair, or relocation and annually after that. Commercial-class irrigation backflows are also tested annually.
Who is affected by City of Fort Worth Water Backflow Program backflow rules?
Commercial properties, irrigation systems, firelines, and any site with a backflow assembly under Fort Worth water utility oversight.
How do I submit or confirm a backflow test for City of Fort Worth Water Backflow Program?
Use the official utility workflow and submission methods listed on this page: Fort Worth backflow program page, VEPO online system. Program phone: 817-392-8008.
Where should I look for testers for City of Fort Worth Water Backflow Program?
Start with the governing authority's published tester list. This utility has an official approved-tester route and it should be treated as the primary source.