Backflow preventer charges

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.

Fees and charges 2026-27

To keep our services running smoothly, some fees and charges will increase from 1 July this year.

Council approved most fees and charges for the 2026–27 financial year at its meeting on 11 February 2026.

A council report presented to elected members outlined all the proposed changes to fees and charges across council services. The report included recommended adjustments to reflect the cost of delivering services.

Elected members approved all of the proposed changes, with two exceptions:

The proposed charge for caregivers accompanying children under five at council swimming pools was not approved. This will remain free of charge.
Proposed changes to Environmental Health Services fees and charges (in terms of regulation 7 of the Health (Registration of Premises) Regulations 1996) were not approved. These remain unchanged.

Excerpt from Council report: Fees & Charges 2026-27

We are currently consulting on proposed changes to trade waste, planning, and miscellaneous service fees, which are not yet finalised.