Plumbing cross connections are actual or potential connections between a potable and non-potable or unapproved water supply and constitute a significant public health hazard and are controlled by the use of backflow prevention valves. This program protects the public water system from contamination by an unapproved water supply by requiring installation and testing of backflow prevention devices (double check valve assemblies and reduced pressure zone backflow preventers) installed on the public supply lines where they enter facilities, generally near the water meter on domestic lines and before the alarm check and siamese connection for fire lines. From January 2012 testing shall be by a certified tester with a valid backflow prevention device tester certificate (see below).
New Jersey regulations require a physical connection permit be obtained by the owner of a facility (not a private residence) containing an unapproved water supply and a public community water supply. The permit has to be renewed annually and requires each backflow prevention device covered by the permit to be tested quarterly. To apply for or renew a Physical Connection Permit, please complete the appropriate application Forms (below). Further information on cross connection control is available in the EPA Cross Connection Control Manual (below).
Who I am |
Public water supply |
Other water supply |
Whether a permit is needed |
Private residence |
Yes |
None |
No |
Private residence |
Yes |
Irrigation well |
No, but you may be required to install a backflow prevention device. Contact your public water system or plumbing code official for further information. |
Private residence |
Yes |
Gray water wastewater system |
No, but you may be required to install a backflow prevention device. Contact your public water system or plumbing code official for further information. |
Private residence |
Yes |
Hydraulic sump pump |
No, but you may be required to install a backflow prevention device. Contact your public water system or plumbing code official for further information. |
Business |
Yes |
Well |
Yes, if any plumbing connected to the well enters the building(s) which have a public supply |
Business |
Yes |
Pond to supply fire suppression sprinkler system |
Yes |
Car wash |
Yes |
storage tanks for the recovery and recycling of the water |
Yes |
Homeowners association |
Yes |
Development with its own sewage treatment plant |
Yes, if the public supply enters the sewage treatment plant. |
Municipal Utilities Authority |
Operates it |
Also operates waste water system |
Yes, for each waste water pump station and sewage treatment plant that also has public supply entering its buildings. |
Residential care facility |
Own PWS with wells |
Connection to municipal system |
Yes, if your PWS is a “public non-community water system”; no, if your PWS is “public community water system.” |
Industrial facility |
Yes |
Large storage tanks of process water |
Yes, as storage tanks are considered an “unapproved source.” |
Office building |
Yes |
Fire suppression sprinkler system supplied by PWS by service connection separate from drinking water line |
Yes, if the fire suppression system contains an additive such as antifreeze or for corrosion control |
Physical Connections