The City of Fairfax and the surrounding county both use the Fairfax Water cross-connection program: testable assemblies on irrigation, in-ground pools, directly connected hot tubs and fire sprinklers are tested at installation, after repairs and at least yearly by a certified tester on Fairfax County's authorized list. For a test, a repair or a replacement, call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Fairfax.
Fairfax in brief
The City of Fairfax is an independent city and still the Fairfax County seat, with Old Town Fairfax at its center and George Mason University just to the south. Fairfax Water supplies the city, and its cross-connection program runs jointly with Fairfax County Land Development Services and, inside the city, the City of Fairfax Fire Department and Code Administration. Much of ZIPs 22030 through 22033 lies outside city limits in unincorporated Fairfax County. Both areas follow the same testing rules; permits differ. The city's median home was built in 1967, so many sprinkler systems were added long after the house was built.
What to do now
- Know which side of the line you are on. City addresses use City Code Administration for permits; county addresses use Fairfax County Land Development Services.
- Stop leaks. If the device is running water, close the irrigation shutoff or the main valve.
- Find the last test date. Look for a tag or report. More than a year means a test is due.
- List what it protects. Sprinklers, pool fill, hot tub or fire sprinklers.
- Book a listed tester. The tester must be DPOR certified and on the County's authorized vendor list, and submits the report online.
- Plan for permits on new work. Installing or replacing an irrigation assembly needs a plumbing permit.
What you see and what it usually means
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Steady drip from the relief opening | First check fouled by debris or scale |
| Spray from the vacuum breaker cap | Worn float or seat |
| Readings drift during the test | Weak springs or worn discs |
| Body split or bulged | Freeze damage |
| Valve handles will not turn | Corroded shutoff valves |
What affects the cost
- Whether the device passes the first time or needs a rebuild and second test
- Assembly type and size, especially reduced pressure units
- A replacement with its permit, whether from the City or the County
- Access to the device and any freeze damage around it
Inside the city, plumbing permit applications go to Code Administration at 10455 Armstrong Street (703-385-7830). For questions about a device's status, Fairfax Water's cross-connection line is 571-722-7653, and the County program can be reached at 703-222-0801.
Backflow Testing questions in Fairfax
Is a permit needed to install or replace a backflow preventer?
How does the test report reach the water utility?
Do pools, hot tubs and fire sprinklers need backflow protection?
Who is allowed to test my backflow assembly?
More plumbing services in Fairfax
Backflow Testing nearby
Sources
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