Dunsmuir Municipal Code Ch. 13.04 Water System

To provide revenue for the operation of the existing water distribution system of the city. To provide funds for the replacement extension, maintenance and repair thereof. To provide funds for the operation of said system as it currently exists or may hereafter be modified.

(Prior code § 15B-1; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. The city will furnish water service in accordance with the regulations hereafter contained, and in accordance with other applicable ordinances, to any property within the corporate limits of the city or to other areas adjacent to said limits.

B. Applications for service to premises for which a service connection has already been installed may be made as hereinafter set forth. Such applications will signify the customer's willingness and intention to comply with these regulations and to all modifications thereof, and to new regulations, charges or rates duly adopted, and to make payment for services rendered.

C. If an application is made for service to property where no service connection has been installed, but distribution main is adjacent to the property, the applicant in addition to making application for service, shall comply with the regulations governing the installation of service connections. (Service connections, Section 13.04.080). Where an extension of the distribution mains is necessary or a substantial investment is required to furnish service, the applicant will be informed by the water department as to whether or not the distribution facility can be extended under these regulations as set forth herein.

D. Connection fees do not include applicant's cost for time and material by the city's water and/or other departments to install connections from the water main to the meter connection. These costs are in addition to the connection fee.

(Prior code § 15B-2; Ord. 513 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

As used in this chapter the following terms shall have the meaning specified as follows:

"Applicant" means the individual or agency applying for water service.

"City" means the city of Dunsmuir.

"Commercial service" means the provision of water to premises where the customer is engaged in trade.

"Cross-connection" means any unprotected connection between any part of the city water system used or intended to supply water for drinking purposes, and any source or system containing water or substance that is not or cannot be approved as safe, wholesome and potable for human consumption.

"Customer" means the individual or agency of record receiving water service from the water department.

"Date of presentation" means the date placed by the city on a bill, or a notice, which is mailed or delivered personally to the customer.

"Domestic service" means the provision of water for all household residential purposes, including water for sprinkling lawns, gardens, and shrubbery; washing vehicles and other similar and customary purposes.

Fire Service, Private. "Private fire service" means the provision of water to a premises for a fire hydrant, or for automatic fire protection.

Fire Service, Public. "Public fire protection service" relates to fire hydrants connected to the distribution system and made available to designated fire protection agencies.

"Flat rate" means a fixed periodic charge for an unmetered service.

"Flat rate service" means the provision of water in unmeasured quantities.

"Industrial service" means the provision of water to a customer for use in manufacturing, fabricating or processing activities.

"Main extensions" means extensions of distribution pipelines, exclusive of service connections and fire service, beyond existing facilities.

"Mains" means distribution pipelines located in streets, highways, public ways or private rights-of-way which are used to service the general public or a fire district.

"Meter rate service" means the provision of water in measured quantities.

"Municipal or public use" means the provision of water to a municipality or other public body.

"Premises" means a parcel of real estate, including any improvements thereon, which is determined by the water department to be a single unit for purposes of receiving, using and paying for service. In making this determination the department shall take into consideration such factors as whether the unit could reasonably be subdivided and whether the unit is being used for a single enterprise, apartment or dwelling.

"Service connection" means the pipe, valves and other facilities by means of which the water department conducts water from its distribution mains to and through a meter or a single battery of meters, or the curb stop or shut-off valve on an unmetered service connection.

"Utility service" means and includes water, garbage/refuse and sewer services.

"Water department" refers to the water enterprise of the city and its duly authorized representatives.

(Prior code § 15B-3; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

Each applicant for water service shall be required to sign an application form provided by the water department or make application by letter showing the date of application, location of premises to be serviced, mailing address, date applicant desires service and such other information as may be required.

(Prior code § 15B-4; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Establishment of Credit. Each applicant, before receiving metered service, shall be required to establish credit by either of the following methods:

1. A cash deposit to secure payment of his utility bills as prescribed in the regulations on deposits;

2. The use of service for more than one year, during the last twelve (12) months of which the customer paid all utility bills promptly without notice of a past-due account or disconnection for nonpayment.

B. Reestablishment of Credit. To reestablish credit, a customer will be required to pay all back bills up to the time service was discontinued. He shall be required to pay a reconnection charge and make a cash deposit as described in the regulations on deposits.

(Prior code § 15B-5; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Establishment of Credit by Customer. The amount required to establish credit shall be not less than twice the estimated maximum periodic bill for water, garbage and sewer service, and in any event not less than sixty dollars ($60.00).

B. Establishment of Credit by Owner of Premises Subject to Unpaid Closed Account. If a customer is not the owner of the premises receiving utility services from the city and a balance remains unpaid after closing such customer's account, the owner of such premises may be required to deposit with the city an amount equal to not less than twice the unpaid balance, and in any event not less than sixty dollars ($60.00), before any future utility services are furnished to the premises. Such a deposit from the owner may be required in addition to any deposit required of a new or former customer to establish or restore utility service to said premises. In addition, such owner may be required to establish any future service to said premises on his own account.

(Prior code § 15B-6; Ord. 481 § 3, 1993; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Deposits prescribed in this chapter may be applied to unpaid bills for water, garbage and sewer services when such services have been discontinued.

B. The water department may require the customer to redeposit a specified amount before again rendering water service.

(Prior code § 15B-7; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

Deposits, less the amount of any total unpaid utility bills, will be refunded, without interest, upon discontinuance of service. Deposits may be refunded after three years if the customer has a satisfactory payment history. Once per year the city shall review the deposits to determine if there are any deposits over three years old that have not been requested for refund. Deposits shall be applied to customer accounts if there is a valid account. If the customer has moved, the city will attempt service to the last known address. Any and all unclaimed deposits will be credited to the appropriate funds for use.

(Prior code § 15B-8; Ord. 508 § 2, 1999; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Service Connections.

1. The water department shall in no event furnish any water whatsoever to any premises, property, area or location outside the city limits of the city, without the prior approval of the governing body. This applies to all water applications.

2. A water service will not be provided to a premises or hydrant unless an adequate service or hydrant water supply at proper pressure can be assured under conditions of maximum hot weather main flow. However, a water service may be installed (where such assurance is not possible), providing the main size and amount of water is sufficiently adequate to permit the satisfactory use of a booster pump (see subsection C of this section). Such booster pump use must not be detrimental to the other customers along said main, and must discharge into a department-approved pressure tank or elevated tank on the customer's premises. Total installation costs shall be borne by the customer.

3. The size of a water service may be limited to three-fourths size (or other), depending on the size of the main, an adequate supply of water and proper pressure.

4. Water service connections will be installed in the size and at the location desired and indicated by the applicant, where such requests are in accordance with the regulations. Service connections will be made only to property abutting on public streets or to such distribution mains as may be constructed in alleys or rights-of-way at the convenience of the water department.

5. Service connections installed in new subdivisions prior to the construction of streets, or in advance of other street improvements, must be accepted by the applicant in the installed location.

6. Service connections will be installed at ninety (90) degrees to the main and from a point directly opposite that of greatest usage on the premises.

7. A charge (at total cost) will be made to the property owner for extending or shortening the service tubing from the main to relocate the meter and meter box. This applies to any applicant-initiated street, curb, gutter, sidewalk or driveway approach work requiring such changes.

8. A charge (at total cost) will be made to those persons, organizations or jurisdictions requiring that water valves, services and/or main locations be changed in connection with street paving, street widening, street resurfacing, sewer or storm drain construction or other works. 13.04.090

9. Charges for new service connections are payable in advance. No refunds will be made on the charges for water services, private fire services or fire hydrant installations.

10. Water services, meters, meter boxes, fire hydrants and private fire services will be installed only by the water department.

B. Customer's House Line or Connection. The customer's water line from the meter shall be installed and maintained by the customer or the property owner. It must be maintained in a condition which will readily permit a service renewal, a meter repair, or a meter replacement, without leakage. Should a meter be covered by the applicant with wood, debris or material of any kind so it is not readily accessible for reading or a repair, the city may remove such obstructions and charge the customer for the costs of uncovering the meter. Water service may not be given, or may be discontinued where a substandard premises water line, water heater, water tank or other water equipment exists.

C. Pumps or Booster Pumps. If required by the city, a vented tank of not less than one hundred (100) gallons, meeting the approval of the department, shall be placed between the meter and the pump suction line, unless otherwise provided for, in writing, by the director of public works. The meter discharge shall be controlled by a float valve or altitude valve located at said tank. The total installation costs shall be borne by the customer.

D. Water Service Connection and Capacity Charges.

1. The connection fee for three-fourths inch or smaller service shall be nine hundred fifty dollars ($950.00) on July 1, 2004. This connection fee shall also apply to new subdivisions where meters and boxes have already been installed with the subdivision. Commencing July 1, 2005, and on July 1st of every year following, the water connection fee shall be increased by the construction cost index as published by the Engineering News Record on April 1, 2005, and on the April 1st determination date of every year following.

2. The connection fee for services larger than three-fourths inch serving a single commercial or residential unit shall be one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) on July 1, 2004. Commencing July 1, 2005, and on July 1st of every year following, the water connection fee shall be increased by the construction cost index as published by the Engineering News Record on April 1, 2005, and on the April 1st determination date of every year following.

3. The connection fee for services larger than three-fourths inch serving multiple residential units shall be six hundred twenty-five dollars ($625.00) per unit on July 1, 2004. There will be additional costs of meter, box and installation. Commencing July 1, 2005, and on July 1st of every year following, the water connection fee shall be increased by the construction cost index as published by the Engineering News Record on April 1, 2005, and on the April 1st determination date of every year following.

4. Accessory dwelling units converted from existing space and junior accessory dwelling units within existing single-family dwellings are not required to install a new or separate water connection and are not subject to connection fees.

5. The connection fee for a newly constructed accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit that includes a water connection separate from the principal unit is proportionate to that of the principal dwelling unit (based on square feet).

6. The connection fee for any service connection where the water main does not front the property or the meter location will not be at the closest property line shall include the cost of extending a line to the meter box location in addition to the above charges.

7. The connection fee for private fire services including steamer hydrants, wharf hydrants, and check detectors shall be nine hundred fifty dollars ($950.00) on July 1, 2004. Commencing July 1, 2005, and on July 1st of every year following, the water connection fee shall be increased by the construction cost index as published by the Engineering News Record on April 1, 2005, and on the April 1st determination date of every year following.

8. The costs of moving any meter location, when requested by the customer, shall be paid by the customer.

9. All charges for connections and installations must be paid prior to installation based on an estimate of costs. Any difference between actual costs and the estimate shall be adjusted prior to the first billing.

10. The account for water service or usage begins the date that the meter is installed. The charge for fire service begins the date the meter, hydrant, check detector, or similar device is installed.

11. When the building department or planning department in consultation with the fire department determines that it is necessary for public safety, the installation of public fire hydrants may be required in areas being developed or where construction of multiple dwelling units is proposed. The total cost of installation shall be borne by the developer. Upon installation the fire hydrant shall become the property of the city and will be maintained by the city.

E. Miscellaneous Charges.

1. Warped Disc. A charge will be made for replacing a warped meter disc as these are due to hot water backing up to the meter from the customer's equipment. The charge will be the cost of a new disc plus the total cost of labor.

2. Shut-Off Valve. Minimum charge, twenty-dollars ($20.00). When a shut-off valve has been broken at the meter by the customer, the customer will be advised that it is necessary to have a shut-off valve installed at or near their building by their plumber, at which time the valve at the meter will be repaired or replaced by the water department. (See Section 13.04.210 (damage) and Section 13.04.220 (control valve).)

3. Turn On Charge—Ten Dollars ($10.00). When the water has been turned off for nonpayment of a bill, a charge of ten dollars ($10.00) will be made for a turn on. See Section 13.04.140(F) (restoration-reconnection charge).

4. Meters and Services.

a. Meters will be installed by the Water Department, at the curb, or at the property line, or in sidewalk basements, or in other suitable locations, when required under this chapter.

b. No rent, or other charge, will be paid by the water department for a meter or other facilities, (including housing and connections), located on a customer's premises.

c. All meters will be sealed by the water department at the time of installation, and no seal shall be altered or broken except by one of its authorized employees or agents. A customer charge of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) may be made for replacing a seal removed by unauthorized persons.

d. The water department shall meter all services and apply the established metered rate, except as follows (which may be metered for department information and charges):

i. Services where sand particles may injure the meter;

ii. Services for properties having established water rights (water right accounts may be metered to determine the water usage);

iii. Tank truck haul from fire hydrants.

5. Changes in Location of Meters and Service Connections. Meters or services moved for the convenience of the customer will be relocated at the customer's expense. Meters or services moved to protect the water department's property will be moved at the water department's expense.

6. Changes in Size of Meter. The total cost of a change in the size of a meter on an existing service will be paid for by the customer.

7. Ownership (Services).

a. The service connection (including the meter and meter box), whether located on public or private property, is the property of the water department, and the department reserves the right to repair, replace and maintain it, as well as to remove it or any part thereof upon discontinuance of water service or usage.

b. The fire hydrant connection, whether located on public or private property, is the property of the water department, and the department reserves the right to repair, replace and maintain it.

c. Any connected service, meter or detector check, used by a customer for standby or emergency use, shall bear the same applicable monthly minimum charges and rates as those used for regular water service.

8. Ownership (Private Fire Service). A private fire service connection, (whether a hydrant, or a detector check, meter, vault and box located either on public or private property), is the property of the water department and the department reserves the right to repair, or replace and maintain it as well as to remove it or any part thereof upon discontinuance of water service or usage.

9. Maintenance. The service connection, including the meter and the meter box, will be repaired and maintained by the water department at its own expense, but the water department is not responsible for the installation and maintenance of water lines beyond the end of its service connection or meters.

(Prior code § 15B-9; Ord. 493 § 1, 1995; Ord. 513 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015; Ord. No. 572, § IV, 11-4-2021)

Distribution mains will be extended to serve new customers under the following terms and conditions:

A. When an application is made for water service in respect of which it is necessary to make a water main extension or a water main lateral to provide such water service, the extension or lateral shall be made at the expense of the applicant as provided in this section.

B. When an application is made for water service where no water mains exist, and no immediate provisions have been made by the city for the extension of the present water mains to said applicant's property, the city administrator shall cause a map to be prepared showing the area that will be serviced by such extension and the estimated cost thereof. The applicant shall then deposit a sum of money equal to the estimated cost of said extension with the city clerk. Said estimate shall be based upon a six-inch water main. Upon approval by the city council of such water main extension, the city administrator shall cause said extension to be constructed, and if the cost of such extension is less than the estimate, the difference shall be returned to the applicant, but if the cost is greater, the applicant shall pay the difference to the city clerk as soon as said construction is completed and the actual cost determined. The said extension shall be based upon present and future requirements for the area to be provided, and the size of the said water main extension shall be approved by the city administrator. The cost of installation of any water mains six inches or less in diameter shall be borne entirely by the applicant, and there shall be no refund benefits for such an extension. The extension of all water mains as provided in this section shall not be less than six inches in diameter and in the event that a larger diameter of pipe is installed, the difference in cost between a six-inch water main and the larger main actually installed shall be borne by the city. All extensions shall originate at the nearest adequate water main and shall extend the full length of the property of the applicant. All applicants for subsequent connections to said extension shall be charged that portion of the total cost of said extension as the square footage of applicant's property bears to the entire square footage of the area serviced by said water main extension. Said connection charges shall be in addition to the water connection charge as provided in Section 13.04.080(D) of this chapter. All money paid to the city clerk for said subsequent connection charges shall be kept in a water main extension fund, which fund shall be maintained for a period of ten (10) years, following the date of completion of said extension. The water main construction charges received by the city for said subsequent service connections to the water main extensions within said ten (10) year period shall be refunded to the person who paid for such extension or to his successors or assigns. Refunds shall be made on July 1st of each year out of said water main extension fund. After the expiration of the ten (10) year period, any amount left in said fund, or any water main construction charges subsequently received, shall be the sole property of the city. Two or more persons may join in making application for water main extensions.

C. Title to all laterals through the meters, main extensions, valves, manholes and appurtenances made, constructed or installed pursuant to these rules and regulations shall, immediately upon completion and before the flow of water into the main, vest in the city.

D. Subdivisions. All subdivisions shall have a complete water distribution system installed and approved by the city council before such subdivisions are accepted by the city. The subdivider shall install the water distribution system at his own expense and as recommended and approved by the city council. Upon acceptance of such subdivision by the city, all water mains, valves, hydrants, and appurtenances thereto shall become the sole property of the city.

E. Main Extensions (General Information).

1. The water department may make main extensions to the facilities constructed under this regulation without obligation to the applicant.

2. Water will not be provided by the extension of a water main unless an adequate supply at proper pressure can be maintained under conditions of maximum hot weather main flows. The principal part of the area or premises to be served must be located at sufficient elevation below the overflow level of a reservoir or tank to assure an adequate water supply at proper pressure, or the main extension for said area or premises must connect to a main having sufficient capacity and water pressure to give said assurances to the area.

3. The applicant may be required to furnish to the city, without cost to the city, a full and clear title of a fifty (50) foot by one hundred (100) foot tank site within the subdivision or other area for which application is made. A fifteen (15) foot, un-obstructed right-of-way shall also be furnished to the city when necessary, for the laying, maintenance, replacement, repair, upkeep and operation of a water line, from the tank site to the water main.

4. The applicant may also be required to pay the total cost, to the city, of any additional facilities required, such as a well, pump, tank, booster pump or treatment, which would be necessary to maintain an adequate potable water supply at proper pressure. The above would be by special arrangement and signed agreement with the city.

5. All ground profiles must be such that when a street is improved, it will not be necessary to relay the main to conform to the established grade.

(Prior code § 15B-10; Ord. 513 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Number of Services to Separate Premises. Separate premises under single control or management will each be supplied through individual service connections and meters unless the water department elects otherwise.

B. Service to Multiple Units. Separate houses, buildings, living or business quarters on the same premises may be serviced at the option of the applicant, by either of the following methods:

1. Through a single metered service connection to the entire premises, on which only one minimum charge will be applied, plus the sum of two dollars ($2.00) per month for each additional occupied connection to the single water meter.

2. Through separate service connections to each or any unit; provided, that the pipeline system for each service is independent of the others, and is not interconnected.

3. The responsibility for payment of charges for all water, sewer and garbage furnished to combined units, under a single ownership, supplied through a single service water connection, must be assumed by the applicant.

(Prior code § 15B-11; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Rendering of Bills.

1. Meter Readings.

a. Meters will be read at regular intervals for the preparation of regular bills, and as required for the preparation of opening bills, closing bills and special bills.

b. It may not always be possible to read meters on the same day of each period. Should monthly billing period contain less than twenty-seven (27) or more than thirty-three (33) days a prorated correction will be made.

2. Bills for water service will be rendered monthly unless otherwise provided in the rate schedule.

3. Flat rate service by special arrangement only.

4. Opening and Closing Bills.

a. Opening bills, closing bills and bills rendered for periods smaller or greater than the normal monthly billing period will be prorated.

b. For metered service, if actual use is greater than the minimum, the charge shall be based on actual consumption.

c. If the total period of water use is less than one month, the bill will not be less than the monthly minimum charge.

B. Payment of Charges and Delinquent Charges.

1. All rates, fees and charges imposed under the provisions of this chapter are due and payable upon receipt of the notice of charges and shall be billed monthly. Unpaid charges shall become delinquent twenty-five (25) days after mailing or delivering the notice of charges. A basic penalty charge of ten (10) percent of the unpaid amount shall be added to any fee or charge that remains delinquent on the first day of the month following mailing or delivery. Interest at the rate of one-half of one percent per month shall accrue on the total of all such delinquent charges plus all penalty charges.

2. Closing bills, if service is closed or discontinued, are due and payable on the date of presentation. Collection will be made at the time of presentation.

3. Water charges specified shall be charged, collected, and enforced in the same manner, except in relation to the period billed, at the same time, and by the same person, or persons, as are the charges for garbage service furnished by the city and will be billed on the same bill. All provisions of this code and the city ordinances applicable to the charge, collection, and enforcement of rates for garbage service furnished by the city, except for the provisions of Section 8.08.140, are made applicable to this chapter. Persons subject to this chapter but who are not subject to garbage service, shall be charged and billed separately for water services but shall be billed in the same manner, except in relation to the period billed, and at the same time as persons subject to garbage service.

C. Billing of Separate Meters Not Combined.

1. Each meter on a customer's premises will be considered separately and the readings of two or more meters will not be combined unless specifically provided for in the rate schedule, or unless the water department operating convenience requires the use of more than one meter, or of a battery of meters. The maximum monthly charge for such combined meters will be based on the equivalent meter diameter for the total combined discharge areas of the meters.

D. Charges for Water. As stated hereinabove, it is deemed to be in the best interests of the citizens of the city to provide water through meters designed to gauge the amount of water used by all consumers.

The city council is authorized to establish by resolution specific rates, minimums, criteria, etc. The initial scheduling of amounts to be established pursuant to these guidelines is delineated on Attachment A, which is attached to the ordinance codified in this chapter and incorporated herein by this reference.

(Prior code § 15B-12; Ord. 481 § 4, 1993; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Meter Test.

1. Prior to installation, each meter will be tested and no meter found to register more than two percent fast or slow, under conditions of normal operation, will be placed in service.

2. a.

On customer request a customer may, giving not less than one week's notice, request the water department to test the meter serving his premises.

b. The water department may require the customer to deposit an amount to cover the cost of test, as follows:

(Over 4 inches, each test figured separately.)

c. This deposit will be returned if the meter is found to register more than two percent fast under conditions of normal operation. It will be retained by the water department to cover test costs if the meter is not more than two percent fast. The customer will be notified, not less than five days in advance, of the time and place of the test.

d. A customer shall have the right to require the water department to conduct the test in his presence, or in the presence of his representative.

e. A written report giving the results of the test will be available to the customer within ten (10) days after completion of the test.

B. Adjustment of Bills for Meter Error.

1. Fast Meters. When, upon test, a meter is found to registering more than two percent fast, under conditions of normal operation, the water department will refund to the customer the full amount of the overcharge based on corrected meter readings for the period, not exceeding six months, that the meter was in use.

2. Slow Meters.

a. When, upon test, a meter used for domestic or residential service is found to be registering more than twenty (20) percent slow, the water department may bill the customer for the amount of the under- charge based upon corrected meter readings for the period, not exceeding six months, that the meter was in use.

b. When, upon test, a meter used for other than domestic or residential service is found to be registering more than five percent slow, the water department may bill the customer for the amount of the undercharge based upon correct meter readings for the period, not exceeding six months, that the meter was in use.

3. Nonregistering Meters. The water department may bill the customer for water consumed while the meter was not registering. The bill will be at the minimum monthly meter rate or will be computed upon an estimate of consumption based either upon the customer's prior use during the same season of the year or upon a reasonable comparison with use of other customers receiving the same class of service during the same period and under similar circumstances and conditions.

C. Loss of Water. No adjustment will be made for any loss of water from a customer's water lines beyond the meter coupling, or for any loss of water from a customer's equipment, fixtures, facilities or installations beyond the meter coupling.

(Prior code § 15B-13; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Nonpayment of Bills.

1. A customer's water service will be discontinued (shut off) if the total charges for utility services by the city, including sewer and garbage charges and any late penalty and interest charges, are not paid within forty-five (45) days following the date of mailing or delivering the notice of charges.

2. When a disconnect notice has been presented to a customer, all outstanding bills for all utility services, up to and including the current bill, must be paid or the water service will be discontinued as provided in this section.

3. A customer's water service will be discontinued if all utilities furnished at a previous location are not paid (closing bill) within ten (10) days after presentation of said closing bill.

4. If a customer received water services at more than one location and the bill for all utility services at any one location is not paid within forty-five (45) days following the date appearing on the utility bill, water service at all locations will be turned off. Domestic service, however, will not be turned off for nonpayment of bills for other classes of water service.

5. All charges for garbage and rubbish service, water service, sewer service and any other service rendered by the city will be billed upon the same bill and collected along with any delinquent charges, as one total item. If all or part of the bill is not paid, any or all of the services for which the bill is rendered will be discontinued.

B. Unsafe Apparatus.

1. The water department may refuse to furnish water and may discontinue service to any premises on the water system where the plumbing, apparatus, appliances or equipment using water is dangerous, unsafe, substandard, or having noncode tanks, or not in conformity with the applicable ordinances and codes of the city.

2. The water department does not assume liability for inspecting apparatus on the customer's property. The water department does reserve the right of inspection without notice if there is reason to believe that unsafe apparatus, appliance or equipment is in use on the premises. The water service may be discontinued immediately should the right of inspection be hindered or denied.

C. Service Detrimental to Others.

1. The water department may refuse to furnish water and may discontinue service to any premises where the demand is greatly in excess of past average or seasonal use, and where such excessive demands by one customer are, or may be, detrimental or injurious to the service furnished to other customers.

2. The water department may refuse to furnish water and may discontinue service to any premises where excessive demands by one customer will result in inadequate service to others.

D. Noncompliance. The water department will establish a date, depending on the urgency, that the customer must correct an unsafe condition. If the condition has not been corrected by the established date, the water department may discontinue the service without further notice.

E. Customer's Request for Service Discontinuance.

1. A customer shall notify the water department in person, or by telephone or letter at least twenty-four (24) hours before service is to be discontinued.

2. Failure to notify the water department is cause to hold the customer responsible for all utility charges up to and including the date the department learns that the customer has vacated the premises, or otherwise discontinued service.

F. Restoration—Reconnection Charge. The water department may charge ten dollars ($10.00) for restoring water, sewer and garbage service which has been discontinued for noncompliance of these rules and regulations.

(Prior code § 15B-14; Ord. 481 § 5, 1993; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Purpose. An automatic fire service connection of four inches and up to the size of the connected main, will be furnished only if adequate provision is made to prevent the use of water from such service connection for purposes other than fire extinguishing.

B. Application and Agreement. The applicant will be required to sign a special application agreement form that will be furnished upon request.

C. Installation Charges. The applicant will be required to make payment in advance of the estimated cost of installing the service connection, meter or detector check.

D. Quantitive Charges.

1. Water for Fires. No charge will be made for water used to extinguish accidental fire.

2. Water lost through leakage or in testing shall be paid for by the applicant at the rates charged for domestic use. Water used in violation of the water department's regulations shall be paid for by the applicant at double the rate charged for domestic use.

E. Violation of Agreement. If water is used from a fire service in violation of the agreement or of these regulations, the water department may, at its option, discontinue and remove the service.

F. Ownership of Connection. The service connection and all equipment appurtenant thereto, including the meter, shall be the property of the water department, and no part of the cost thereof will be refunded to the applicant.

G. Pressure and Supply. The city assumes no responsibility for loss or damage because of lack of water or pressure and merely agrees to furnish such quantities and pressures as may be available in its general distribution system. The service may be subject to shutdowns (without notice) as well as variations in pressures and quantities of water.

H. Rates. The monthly charge for private protection (meters and detector checks) shall be:

1. Four-inch service connection or smaller, eight dollars ($8.00);

2. Six-inch service connection, twenty dollars ($20.00).

(Prior code § 15B-15; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. The city water department may grant permission to use water through specified hydrants by issuing a written permit to responsible organizations or persons. Application for a permit should be made at least twenty-four (24) hours before service is required. No person or persons shall operate or draw water from a fire hydrant for water service use without a permit.

B. No water shall be drawn from any fire hydrant for water service use, until a meter deposit of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) has been made for the installation of a meter, or, unless other arrangements have been made by permit for a specified hydrant location and period of time. Upon completion of the service use, two hundred twenty-five dollars ($225.00) of the deposit will be returned; the balance being retained to cover meter installation and removal costs, providing there has been no damage to the meter or loss of the meter. The applicant shall be held responsible for the meter between the time it is installed and the time it is removed by the water department.

C. No hydrant shall be operated except by the use of a spanner wrench which can be obtained (for temporary use only) from the water department upon payment of a ten dollar ($10.00) deposit.

D. The applicant shall be held responsible for the correct and safe operation of the hydrant valve, as improper operation can, by water hammer, damage the hydrant, the water main, valves, regulators, water services, meters and customer's appliances.

(Prior code § 15B-16; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Time Limit. Temporary service connections shall be disconnected and terminated within six months after installation unless an extension of time is granted in writing by the water department.

B. Charge for Water Served. Charges for water furnished through a temporary service connection shall be at the established applicable rate for regular customers.

C. Installation Charge and Deposits. The applicant for temporary service will be required to:

1. Pay the water department, in advance, the estimated cost of installing and removing all service facilities including the meters necessary to furnish such service.

a. Flat charge per connection, for both installation and removal of service facilities including water, twenty dollars ($20.00) minimum,

b. Each additional move of facilities to another location, twenty dollars ($20.00) minimum;

2. Deposit an amount sufficient to cover bills for water during the entire period such temporary service may be used, or otherwise establish his credit.

3. Deposit with the water department an amount equal to the value of any equipment loaned by the water department to such applicant for use on temporary services.

D. Responsibility for Meters and Installations. The customer shall use all possible care to prevent damage to the meter or to any other loaned facilities of the water department which are involved in furnishing the temporary service from the time they are installed until they are removed, or until forty-eight (48) hours' notice in writing has been given to and received by the water department that the contractor or other person is through with the meter or meters and the installation. If the meter or other facilities are damaged, the cost of making repairs shall be paid by the customer.

(Prior code § 15B-17; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. When an abnormally large quantity of water is desired for filling a swimming pool or for other purposes, arrangements must be made with the water department prior to taking such water.

B. Permission to take water in unusual quantities will be given only if it can be safely delivered through the water department's facilities and if other consumers are not inconvenienced.

(Prior code § 15B-18; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Use of and Damage to Fire Hydrants. No person or persons, other than those designated and authorized by the proper authority, shall open any fire hydrant, attempt to draw water from it or in any manner damage or tamper with it. Any violation of this regulation will be prosecuted according to law.

B. Installation of Facilities. Fire hydrants and other facilities will be installed for use by organized fire protection agencies under agreement entered into by such agency and the city.

C. Pressure and Supply. The city assumes no responsibility for loss or damage because of lack of water or pressure and merely agrees to furnish such quantities and pressures as may be available in its general distribution system. The service may be subject to shutdowns (without notice), as well as variations in pressures and quantities of water.

D. Moving of Fire Hydrants. When a fire hydrant has been installed in the location specified by the proper authority, the water department has fulfilled its obligation. If a fire district, property owner or other party desires a change in the size, type or location of the hydrant, they shall bear all costs of such change, without refund. Any change in the location of a fire hydrant must be approved by the proper authority, such as the fire chief or the property owner.

(Prior code § 15B-19; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. The customer shall, at his own risk and expense, furnish and install (all in accordance with the Uniform Plumbing Code, and other applicable codes in effect at the time of the installations) and also keep in good and safe condition all equipment that may be required for receiving, controlling, applying and utilizing water. The water department will not be responsible for any loss or damage caused by the improper installation of such water equipment, or the negligence, lack of proper care, or wrongful act of the customer or any of his tenants, agents, employees, contractors, licensees or permittees in installing, maintaining, using, operating or interfering with such equipment. The water department shall not be responsible for damage to property caused by spigots, faucets, valves and other equipment or plumbing fixtures that are open when water is turned on at the meter, either when the water is turned on originally or when turned on after a temporary shutdown.

B. Where reduced or increased pressure is desired, the customer shall be responsible for installing and maintaining the necessary regulators, pumps and relief valves. In such cases, the equipment shall be installed on the customer's side of the meter and at his own risk and expense.

(Prior code § 15B-20; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

The customer shall be liable for any damage (including damage by automotive or other equipment) to a meter, meter box or other equipment or property owned by the water department which is caused by an act of the customer or his tenants, agent, employees, contractors, licensees or permittees, including the breaking or destruction of locks by the customer or others on or near a meter, and any damage to a meter that may result from hot water or steam from a boiler or heater on the customer's premises. The water department shall be reimbursed by the customer for any such damage promptly on presentation of a bill for same.

(Prior code § 15B-21; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. The customer shall install a suitable square or tee head stop on the riser to the building (or, if better suited, as close to the meter location as practicable) the operation of which will control the entire water supply from the service, including the lawn sprinkler system.

B. The operation by the customer of the curb stop in the meter box is prohibited except in an emergency. Journeyman plumbers may operate the curb stop in connection with their business.

(Prior code § 15B-22; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to protect the public water supply system from contamination due to potential and actual cross-connections. This shall be accomplished by the establishment of a cross-connection control program as required by state regulations. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to Title 17, Section 7583—7605, inclusive, of the California Code of Regulations, entitled "Regulations Relating to Cross-Connections".

B. Responsibility. The city manager/cross-connection control specialist shall be responsible for implementing and enforcing the cross-connection control program. An appropriate backflow prevention assembly shall be installed by and at the expense of the water user at each user connection where required to prevent backflow from the water user's premises to the domestic water system. It shall be the water user's responsibility to comply with the water supplier's requirements.

C. Cross-Connection Protection Requirements. The type of protection that shall be provided to prevent backflow into the public water supply system shall be commensurate with the degree of hazard, actual or potential, that exists on the water user's premises. Unprotected cross-connections with the public water supply are prohibited. The type of backflow prevention assembly that may be required (listed in decreasing level of protection) includes: Air-gap separation (AG), Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly (RP), and Double Check Valve Assembly (DC). The water user may choose a higher level of protection than required by the water supplier. The minimum types of backflow prevention required to protect the approved water supply at the user's water connection to premises with varying degrees of hazard are listed in Table 1 of Section 7604, Title 17. Situations which are not covered in Table 1 shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and the appropriate backflow prevention shall be determined by the water supplier or health agency.

D. Backflow Prevention Assemblies. Only backflow prevention assemblies which have been approved by the city shall be acceptable for installation by a water user. A list of approved backflow prevention assemblies will be provided upon required to any affected customer. Backflow prevention assemblies shall be installed in a manner prescribed in Section 7603, Title 17. Location of the assemblies shall be as close as practical to the user's connection. The city shall have the final authority in determining the required location of the backflow prevention assembly.

Testing of backflow assemblies shall be conducted only by qualified testers and testing will be the responsibility of the water user. Backflow prevention assemblies must be tested at least annually and immediately after installation, relocation or repair. More frequent testing may be required if deemed by the city. No assembly shall be placed back in service unless it is functioning as required. These assemblies shall be serviced, overhauled, or replaced whenever they are found to be defective and all costs of testing, repair, and maintenance shall be borne by the water user. Approval must be obtained from the city prior to removing, relocating or replacing a backflow prevention assembly.

E. Administration. The cross-connection control program shall be administered by the city manager/cross-connection control specialist. The city will establish and maintain a list of approved backflow prevention assemblies as well as a list of approved backflow prevention assembly testers. The city shall conduct necessary surveys of water user premises to evaluate the degree of potential health hazards. The city shall notify users when an assembly needs to be tested. The notice shall contain the date when the test must be completed.

F. Water Service Termination. When the city encounters water uses that represent a clear and immediate hazard to the potable water supply that cannot be immediately abated, the procedure for terminating water service shall be instituted. Conditions of water uses that create a basis for water service termination shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Refusal to install or to test a backflow prevention assembly, or to repair or replace a faulty backflow prevention assembly.

2. Direct or indirect connection between the public water system and a sewer line.

3. Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the public water system and a system or equipment containing contaminants.

4. Unprotected direct or indirect connection between the public water system and an auxiliary water system.

For condition 1, the city will terminate service to a water user's premises after proper notification has been sent. If no action is taken within the allowed time period, water service shall be terminated.

For conditions 2, 3, or 4, the city shall take the following steps:

1. Make reasonable effort to advise the water user of intent to terminate water service;

2. Terminate water service and lock service valve. The water service shall remain inactive until correction of violations has been approved by the city.

(Prior code § 15B-23; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015; Ord. No. 569, §§ I—VI, 8-6-2020)

All individual or business organizations are forbidden to attach any ground wire or wires to any plumbing which is, or may be connected to a service connection or main belonging to the water department; the water department will hold the customer liable for any damage to its property occasioned by such ground wire attachments.

(Prior code § 15B-24; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

Where water is wastefully or negligently used on a customer's premises, seriously affecting the general service, the water department may discontinue the service if such conditions are not corrected within five days after giving the customer written notice.

(Prior code § 15B-25; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. The water department or its duly authorized agent shall at all reasonable times have the right to enter or leave the customer's premises for any purpose properly connected with the service of water to the customer.

B. Any inspection or recommendations made by the water department or its agents on plumbing or appliances or use of water on the customer's premises, either as the result of a complaint or otherwise, will be made or offered without charge.

(Prior code § 15B-26; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

A. The city assumes no responsibility for loss or damage because of lack of water, or lack of pressure, and merely agrees to furnish such quantities and pressures as may be available in its general distribution system. The service may be subject to shutdowns (without notice) as well as variation in pressures and quantities of water.

B. The water department shall not be liable for damage resulting from an interruption in service. Temporary shutdowns may be resorted to by the water department for improvements and repairs. Whenever possible, and as time permits, all customers affected will be notified prior to such shutdowns.

C. The water department will not be liable for interruption, shortage or insufficiency of supply, high pressures, low pressures, or for any loss or damage occasioned thereby, caused by accident, or act of God, fire, strikes, riots, war and any other cause. The water department, whenever it shall find it necessary or convenient for the purpose of making repairs or improvements to its system, shall have the right to temporarily suspend delivery of water and it shall not be liable for any loss or damage occasioned thereby. Repairs or improvements will be prosecuted as rapidly as is practicable and, so far as possible, at such times as will cause the least inconvenience to the customers.

(Prior code § 15B-27; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)

The provisions of Section 15.24.120 of this code are incorporated in the regulations applicable to all water customers and may be enforced in the manner provided in this chapter, including entry upon the premises of a customer who is engaged in restricted outside watering in order to turn off the restricted watering as provided in Section 13.04.260.

(Prior code § 15B-28; Ord. 482 § 2, 1993; Ord. No. 549, § 1, 7-30-2015)