State guide
Backflow testing in Oregon
Oregon makes every public water supplier run a cross-connection program. A certified tester must test the backflow assemblies that protect the water system at installation and at least every 12 months. The Oregon Health Authority certifies testers for two years at a time.
What Oregon requires
Oregon Health Authority rules make every water supplier run a cross-connection control program. The supplier must make sure each approved backflow assembly that protects its system is tested by an Oregon Health Authority certified tester using a calibrated gauge. Tests are due when the assembly is installed, repaired or moved, then at least every 12 months, and after any backflow incident. A supplier can require tests more often for assemblies that keep failing or guard a health hazard. Each supplier's local rules must let it shut off water for not removing a cross connection, not installing an assembly, not maintaining it, or not testing it. The tester must give a copy of every report to the owner and to the supplier within 10 working days, in a form the supplier accepts.
Run by Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division, Drinking Water Services (Cross Connection Program) under OAR 333-061-0070 Cross Connection Control Requirements, OAR 333-061-0071 Backflow Prevention Assembly Standards, OAR 333-061-0072 Backflow Assembly Tester Certification.
Source: oregon.gov · checked Oct 18, 2026
Who certifies testers
To test backflow assemblies in Oregon you need an Oregon Health Authority tester certification. Licensed journeyman and apprentice plumbers who finished an approved tester course may also test. Take an approved 5-day course, then apply to OHA within 12 months. If you test for a fee, you also need a Construction Contractors Board or Landscape Contractors Board license. Many water systems will not take your reports without the OHA card. The public tester list is voluntary and only lists testers who hold one of those licenses.
Source: oregon.gov · checked Oct 18, 2026
Water utilities in Oregon
Pick your water provider: it is the name on your water bill or on your test notice.
- BeavertonCity of Beaverton Water (Public Works)Sprinklers: every yearTest at least once every 12 months.
- BendCity of Bend Water Services (Public Works)Sprinklers: every yearShut-off possibleYour yearly letter gives a due date for each assembly, and neighbors can have different dates.
- EugeneEugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB)Sprinklers: every yearFiles in VEPO CrossConnexShut-off possibleEach assembly has its own due month.
- GreshamCity of Gresham Water (Department of Environmental Services)Sprinklers: every yearShut-off possibleHave a new assembly tested when it is installed.
- HillsboroCity of Hillsboro Water DepartmentSprinklers: every yearFiles in EcosConnectShut-off possibleTest each assembly every year by the due date on your reminder letter.
- PortlandPortland Water BureauSprinklers: every yearShut-off possibleThe Water Bureau mails a reminder letter each year.
- SalemCity of Salem Public Works (Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention Program)Sprinklers: every yearFiles in SpryBackflowShut-off possibleEach assembly has a compliance month.
Backflow testing in Oregon: questions
Which Oregon water utilities require yearly sprinkler backflow tests?
Of the 7 utilities on this site, all require a yearly test of lawn sprinkler backflow assemblies: Beaverton, Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Hillsboro, Portland and Salem.
Who certifies backflow testers in Oregon?
To test backflow assemblies in Oregon you need an Oregon Health Authority tester certification. Licensed journeyman and apprentice plumbers who finished an approved tester course may also test. Take an approved 5-day course, then apply to OHA within 12 months. If you test for a fee, you also need a Construction Contractors Board or Landscape Contractors Board license. Many water systems will not take your reports without the OHA card. The public tester list is voluntary and only lists testers who hold one of those licenses.
Can a Oregon utility shut off my water for a missed backflow test?
6 of the 7 utilities on this site say they can: Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Hillsboro, Portland and Salem. Each one sends notices first; see its page for the steps and fees.
Do fire sprinkler lines in Oregon need backflow tests?
Yes, at Beaverton, Eugene, Gresham and Portland, every year. Check each utility's page for which fire lines are covered.