The Portland Water District (PWD) is updating its Cross Connection Control Program to improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer service while continuing to protect public health and the drinking water system. Beginning March 1, 2026, PWD will use the VEPO CrossConnex platform to manage backflow prevention device inspections and test report submissions.

Backflow prevention devices are critical safeguards that prevent contaminants from flowing backward into the public water system. PWD currently tracks approximately 10,000 backflow prevention devices across its service area, about 6,000 of which require routine testing. This program update modernizes how inspection results are submitted and tracked, moving the process to a secure, electronic system.

What Customers Need to Know

  • No action is required by customers.
  • Annual backflow testing requirements remain unchanged. Customers with testable backflow prevention devices must continue to have their devices inspected annually by a certified backflow device inspector.
  • Certified inspectors will submit reports electronically through the VEPO CrossConnex system on the customer’s behalf.
  • Improved communication. Inspector contact information will be included on customer notices and automatic reminder notifications can be set up by email or text, depending on customer preferences and available contact information.
  • There is an $18 fee per backflow test report associated with the VEPO CrossConnex system. This fee is charged to the certified backflow device inspector at the time the test report is submitted.  Any costs passed on to customers are determined by the inspector and are not set by the Portland Water District.

The Portland Water District is confident this update will streamline reporting, reduce paperwork, and improve data accuracy while maintaining strong public health protections for the community’s drinking water supply.

More information can be found HERE.