WASHINGTON COUNTY, MD (June 18, 2025) – The Washington County Division of Environmental Management is launching a critical, state-mandated initiative to protect the public drinking water system from potential contamination: the Cross-Connection Control (CCC) Program.
This program focuses on identifying and mitigating risks of pollutants entering the water supply through backflow—a reversal of water flow that can occur in certain plumbing systems. All non-residential properties will eventually be surveyed as part of this important water safety initiative.
What to Expect:
The CCC Program will begin with County-owned facilities and then expand to other properties designated as “High Hazard” by the State of Maryland. These include hospitals, industrial sites, funeral homes, car washes, marinas, and other locations where potential hazards to the water supply may exist.
Inspection Notification:
Approximately three weeks before an inspection, affected property owners will receive an official notice from HydroCorp, the County’s contracted inspection partner. This letter will include:
- The purpose of the inspection
- The legal authority mandating the survey
- The scheduled inspection date
- Contact information for HydroCorp to reschedule or ask questions
On-Site Survey Details:
HydroCorp inspectors will conduct a visual inspection of each facility’s water system to:
- Identify and document existing backflow prevention assemblies
- Determine if the current level of protection matches the facility’s hazard classification
- Recommend any necessary corrective actions
- Provide instructions for compliance if adjustments are required
If Corrections Are Required:
Facilities found to be non-compliant will receive a written notice with a list of required corrections and a deadline for completion. If no action is taken, a second notice will follow. Continued non-compliance will be referred to Washington County for potential enforcement.
“Protecting the integrity of our public water system is a top priority,” said Davina Yutzy, Deputy Director of Water Quality. “We appreciate the cooperation of commercial property owners as we implement this important initiative to help ensure safe and reliable drinking water for our entire community.”
To learn more about the Cross-Connection Control Program and view updates, please visit: https://watercustomer.com/washington-county/
For additional information, please contact Washington County’s Public Relations and Marketing Department at 240-313-2380.
###
