The Village of Oak Park | 123 Madison St.  Oak Park, IL 60302 | village@oak-park.us

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Cross-Connection

The Village of Oak Park Cross Connection Control Program is designed to safeguard public health by protecting the municipal drinking water supply. Your cooperation is essential. Following are a list of the most frequently asked questions and answers related to backflow devices for all residential water customers in Oak Park.

What is a cross connection?

A cross connection is a connection between a potable water supply and a non-potable source, where a contaminant potentially could enter the drinking water supply. Cross connections should be protected by a valve called a backflow preventer.

What is a backflow preventer?

A backflow preventer is a device that allows the water to flow only in one direction and prevent a pipe or device connected to the water supply line to allow water to flow back into the municipal supply system.

Who has responsibility for installing backflow preventers?

Property owners are responsible for installing, testing and maintaining backflow preventers. Water customers must contract with a licensed professional to perform the required annual tests and make any necessary repairs. Most plumbing contractors can install and repair backflow preventers and are certified to test them.

Where would a backflow preventer be installed?

Residential backflow preventers typically are found on systems such as those for irrigating lawns, filling swimming pools and water features, and fire sprinkler systems. If your heat is supplied by radiators, the hot water boiler should have a preventer, as should a water softener. Toilets, bathtubs, sinks, hot water heaters and other standard plumbing fixtures do not require backflow preventers.

Who is Brycer The Compliance Engine?

Brycer is the contractor hired to implement and oversee the Village of Oak Park’s backflow assessment program. They specialize in cross connection control management.

Who can I contact for more information?

Brycer The Compliance Engine may be contacted locally at 630.413.9577 with any questions. You also may contact the Village of Oak Park Public Works Department at 708.358.5700.

How do providers submit a backflow device through the compliance engine?

Please click here for a flyer with more information.