Cross Connection Control Program

Cross Connection Control Program

The Northville Township Water System is committed to providing its customers with safe and reliable drinking water.  Safeguarding the drinking water is the responsibility of ALL.  To assist in providing safe and reliable drinking water, the Township has created a cross connection control program to help protect the drinking (potable) water from contamination due to cross connection. Beginning during the Fall of 2020, Township Ordinance will require home owners to have their backflow prevention devices tested.
What is a cross connection?
A cross connection or arrangement of piping through which water of questionable quality, wastes or other contaminants could enter the potable water supply due to a reversal of flow.



Why does it matter?
Customers are going to be required to maintain their water systems in a manner free of cross connections. If a backflow incident should occur resulting in contamination of the public water supply, the responsible owner or occupant could be held liable for damages.
What is the law?
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) requires water utilities to have comprehensive cross control programs for the elimination and prevention of all cross connections.

This is defined in Part 14 of the Michigan Safe Drinking Water Act.

MDEQ has also published a Cross Connection Rules Manual. 



Examples of when cross connection can exist:
  • hose connections
  • lawn irrigation systems
  • toilet fill valves
  • chemical aspirators
  • boilers
  • cooling towers
  • swimming pools
  • water operated sump pumps
  • water softeners
  • fire sprinkler systems