§ 471-5. Mandatory use of backflow-prevention system.

Each vehicle which utilizes public water fire hydrants for purposes other than fire fighting shall be equipped with a properly functioning backflow-prevention system described as follows:

A. 

The hydrant connection shall be with a water-purveyor-approved adaptor and reducer fitting with a 1 1/2-inch gate valve, followed by a double-check valve or other backflow-prevention device to which the water hose will be connected.

B. 

In all connections, hydrants shall be opened to full capacity.

C. 

Hydrant openings and closings shall be accomplished only by the use of a proper hydrant wrench on the operating nut, with flow started and controlled by the 1 1/2-inch valve.

D. 

No hydrant shall be used to fill tanks on vehicles which contain chemicals (such as tree spray or lawn fertilizer), unless a reduced pressure backflow preventor or permanently attached piping with an air-gap minimum of twice the diameter of the pipe between the fill pipe and the tanks is used.

E. 

Each backflow-prevention system shall be inspected and/or tested at least annually by an authorized agent or certified tester of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as a condition precedent to the issuance of any permit by a public water purveyor.

F. 

Backflow-prevention apparatus shall be visible on the exterior of each vehicle upon unassisted observation.