Annual testing is required of all Backflow Prevention Assemblies used in conjunction with any high hazard cross connection sources (see Hazard List). Such testing must be performed by a state licensed Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester registered with the City of Austin (see List of Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers). Licensing, registration and other tester specific information is also available online (see Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Information).

Those customers with devices registered with the Austin Water Utility's Special Services Division are sent notices on an annual basis as a reminder for any assemblies due for testing. Testing is due by the last day of the calendar month in which it's due. First notice letters are mailed in the calendar month prior to the due date, and second notice letters are mailed in the month of the due date. Those customers that have never registered their required devices may not receive notice; however, this does not relieve such customers of their obligation to comply with these test, maintenance and reporting requirements. Customers that fail to meet these requirements would be in violation of Chapter 15-1 of the Austin City Code, violations of which could subject the violator to criminal penalties with maximum fines of $2,000.00 per offence; or civil penalties not to exceed $5,000.00 per offense. Each separate day of non-compliance may be considered a separate violation.