STEGE SANITARY DISTRICT
... it shall be the mission of the Stege Sanitary District to plan and implement a safe, efficient and economical wastewater collection and transfer system for the customers of the District. 

7500 Schmidt Lane
El Cerrito, CA 94530-0537		 (510) 524-4668 Office
(510) 524-4697 Fax		 (510) 524-4667
24-hour		 Mon - Thu 8:00am - 5:00pm
Fri 8:00am - 4:00pm

Backflow Prevention Device (BPD)

  1. DESCRIPTION

A properly installed Backflow Prevention Device (BPD) is designed to prevent sewage from entering your residence.

If a blockage occurs in the sanitary sewer system, sewage will rise through a manhole and overflow to the surrounding area. However, if your house plumbing is below the level of the overflowing manhole, the sewage can backup through your house side sewer lateral and enter your home through your plumbing drains.

By simply installing a BPD outside the home below the lowest level of plumbing, the overflow will occur outside and avoid damaging the floors and furnishings in your home.

BPD's operate automatically and can be reasonably simple to install. Installation may be done by the home owner or by a licensed contractor registered with the District. 

If you are unsure whether you already have a BPD or feel your home may be vulnerable to a sewage backup, call the District office at 510-524-4668 and schedule a free BPD inspection for your home.

 

  1. REQUIREMENTS

Section 3A of Division 9 of Regulation No. 23 of the Stege Sanitary District:

"INSTALLATION OF BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, RESPONSIBILITY FOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE.

  1. All new building side sewers including side sewer replacements shall be equipped with a cleanout riser fitted with a backflow prevention device of type and materials as approved by the District.
  1. Where existing buildings have plumbing drain outlets at an elevation that is twelve (12) inches or less above the ground surface of the next upstream manhole or lamphole on the main sewer, the property owner shall have and maintain in an operable condition a backflow prevention device on the building side sewer at the location and of the type and materials as approved by the District
  1. The responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the building side sewer and its appurtenant fittings and devices from the building foundation to and including the connection to the main is the property owner's."

  1. DETAILS