| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $85 to $616; most common project cost is $300 |
| Time | Varies by home - confirm in your quote |
| Who's qualified | Ask for proof of insurance, relevant certifications (e.g., ASE for auto repair), and any license your state or city requires. |
Broken Arrow, OK: what's different here
Broken Arrow sits in Tulsa County, about 15 miles and roughly 18 minutes from Tulsa via US-64 and OK 51. Homes built before 1977 might need a backwater device, so the city's older housing stock matters here. Freeze timing is a local factor too, with a mean first 28°F hard freeze on November 14 and a mean last one on March 17.
When does Broken Arrow require sewer backflow prevention?
The City of Broken Arrow requires a backwater device for all new buildings connected to the city sanitary sewer system. It is also required when the lowest floor of a building is less than 1 foot above the upstream manhole rim. Homes built before 1977 might need one as well.
Who can install and test backflow devices in Broken Arrow?
City code says the device must be installed by a plumbing contractor licensed with the State of Oklahoma and registered with the City of Broken Arrow. Testing and certification must be done by testers registered by the city who meet American Water Works Association or American Backflow Prevention Association requirements. Installation is at the property owner's expense.
How often is sewer backflow prevention tested in Broken Arrow?
Broken Arrow code requires testing and certification of backflow prevention devices at installation and annually thereafter. The code also says backwater devices should be checked at least once per year to remove debris and confirm moving parts move freely.
What permits apply in Broken Arrow?
Broken Arrow's Community Permitting and Licensing Division handles required departmental actions, and permits are required for any type of structure built within the city. Inspection scheduling is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with requests made at least one day before the desired inspection date.
How deep must backflow device piping be buried?
Devices must conform to Table 608.1 of the 2018 International Plumbing Code and follow the manufacturer's specifications. The ordinance says piping used above grade to connect the backflow device must be at least 24 inches below grade. Water piping connecting the potable water service to the device must also be at a minimum 24-inch depth.
What to do next
- Check whether your home is a new build, has a lowest floor less than 1 foot above the upstream manhole rim, or was built before 1977.
- Ask each pro for proof of an Oklahoma plumbing license and City of Broken Arrow registration before installation.
- Request an itemized quote covering installation depth, testing, and the annual certification required by city code.
- Schedule the city inspection Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at least one day before the date you want.
- Call (918) 202-2068 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured local backflow testers.
Tulsa Backflow is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
