New Deadlines. Higher Stakes. Are You Ready?
On July 1, 2024, California’s updated Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook (CCCPH) took effect — bringing sweeping new requirements for water systems of all types. Whether you manage a community water system, a non-transient non-community system, or a recycled water facility, these changes affect you.
Failing to comply by the deadlines could mean enforcement action, contamination risks, or loss of permit.
Here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead of the curve — and how BCG Water can help you meet compliance confidently.
Key Compliance Deadlines
| Date | Requirement |
|---|---|
| July 1, 2025 | Submit your Cross-Connection Control (CCC) Plan to the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) for review. |
| July 1, 2026 | Complete a full hazard assessment of your water system — including recycled and dual-plumbed systems. |
Who Does This Apply To?
These new rules apply to ALL Public Water Systems (PWS) in California, including:
Community Water Systems (CWS)
Non-Transient Non-Community Systems (NTNC)
Transient Non-Community Systems (TNC)
Each system is expected to tailor its CCC Plan to its size, complexity, and risk profile.
Special Considerations for Recycled Water Systems
Recycled water systems face higher risks and greater scrutiny under the CCCPH due to the complexity of dual-plumbed infrastructure.
Key risk areas:
Cross-Connections between potable and recycled lines
Backflow in varying pressure zones
Mislabeling or poor signage
Improper user access or modification of piping
Must-Have Controls:
Clearly labeled pipes and valves
Frequent backflow prevention device testing
Staff and contractor education programs
Thorough hazard assessments for every access point
Do You Need a Certified Cross-Connection Control Specialist?
Yes — in many cases.
| System Size | Requirement |
|---|---|
| < 1,000 connections | May not require a specialist unless flagged by SWRCB |
| 1,000–2,999 connections | Must consult with a certified specialist during plan development |
| 3,000+ connections | Must retain a certified specialist (in-house or contracted), available within one hour of need |
| Recycled water systems | Additional oversight may apply based on system complexity |
BCG Water provides specialist consultation, on-call support, and full CCC Plan development services for systems across all tiers.
Your Compliance Checklist
Develop a CCC Plan
Document your entire water system (potable, recycled, and industrial)
Include SOPs for inspections, device testing, and corrective actions
Conduct a Hazard Assessment
Identify every actual and potential cross-connection
Evaluate risk levels and mitigation needs
Document everything for audit readiness
Engage a Certified Specialist
Especially if you’re over 1,000 connections
Or operating a recycled water system with dual-plumbing
Educate and Label
Use standardized signage and labeling on all access points
Train staff, vendors, and end users
Prepare for Submission
Your plan is due July 1, 2025 — review it early with an expert before submission
Why This Matters
These requirements are not red tape — they’re public health protections. Cross-connection failures can lead to:
Contaminated drinking water
Boil notices or Do Not Drink orders
Legal liability and state enforcement
Loss of public trust
California’s water systems are increasingly complex — especially with the rise in recycled water use. That’s why proactive planning is essential.
How BCG Water Supports CCCPH Compliance
We help:
Build fully customized Cross-Connection Control Plans
Conduct detailed hazard assessments
Provide access to certified CCC specialists
Train your team
Prepare and submit documentation to SWRCB
Whether you’re a small rural system or a large urban utility, we guide you from uncertainty to full compliance.
Call to Action (CTA)
Not sure where to start with California’s new cross-connection rules?
👉 Book a Free Compliance Consultation with BCG Water and take the guesswork out of CCCPH compliance.
