Backflow preventers prevent water contamination from non-residential properties entering Palmy's water supply. They're required in all non-residential properties.
Historically, Council tested backflow preventers and property owners were responsible for all repairs and maintenance.
On 1 July 2021, Council assumed full responsibility for the cost of repairs, maintenance and annual testing to confirm compliance. The cost for this work is recovered by a fixed annual fee.
The fee is payable only on the property water connection at the boundary and not any internal connections.
The fee is set based on full recovery of testing, repairs, any renewals and administration costs.
We’ve made these changes so it’s consistent for all businesses, and less stress and costs to businesses if repairs are needed.
Fees and charges for 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026
All charges include GST. Properties with multiple backflow preventers will pay separate charges for each one.
| Item |
Charge |
| Annual backflow preventer charge |
$301 |
| Administration fee |
$31 |
| Total charge for each backflow preventer |
$332 |
Note that properties with multiple backflow preventers pay separately for each. For example, a property with two backflow preventers would pay $332 x 2 = $664 per year.