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Title 13 — UTILITIES AND SEWERS

Chapter 13.20 — WATER SERVICE AND RATES

Pasadena Municipal Code · 2026-09 edition · updated 2026-09-29 · Pasadena

13.20.010 - Short title and purpose.

This chapter shall be known and designated as the "water rate ordinance" and the rates set forth herein for water and water service to be charged and collected by the water division of the city, and the terms and conditions of service applicable to, and to be enforced in respect of, the supplying of such water and water service, and the time and manner of payment therefore are hereby fixed and established.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4583 § 1, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 2, 7-16-2012)

13.20.015 - Definitions.

A.

"Department," as used in this chapter, means the Water and Power Department of the City of Pasadena.

B.

"Water division," as used in this chapter, means the water division of the water and power department.

C.

"Actual costs," as used in this chapter, means the department's total costs of providing the service, including without limitation, the following:

Engineering and design;

Permits and other regulatory approvals;

Salary and benefits of city employees who perform the service;

Inspection;

Materials, supplies, and warehousing;

Vehicles and equipment;

Administrative support and overhead;

Outside contractors;

Applicable taxes; and

Other associated costs.

D.

Single Family Residential ("SFR") customer classification: Applies to separately metered single-family detached residences, also called single-detached dwellings, or single-family with accessory dwelling unit.

E.

Multi-Family Residential ("MFR") customer classification: Applies to multi-family dwellings served by a single meter, including properties permitted as work/live space when used for residential purposes. Multi-family dwellings are apartments, condominiums or town houses with at least two dwelling units at the same physical location.

F.

Commercial customer classification: Applies, without regard to meter size, to all accounts serving mercantile buildings, motels, and other short term lodging establishments, office buildings, institutional buildings, schools, churches, manufacturing facilities, industrial facilities, and other commercial establishments.

G.

Billing Unit: The unit of measurement for water consumption which is one hundred cubic feet (HCF) which is 748 gallons.

(Ord. No. 7425, § 2, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7223, § 3, 7-16-2012)

13.20.020 - Service—Areas designated.

A.

For the purpose of establishing water rate service areas, the area served by the water division is divided into two classes, designated as Area A and Area B. Effective June 1, 2019, the rate differentials between Area A and Area B shall be identical.

B.

Area A shall include all of the area inside the city.

C.

Area B shall include all areas served by the water division outside the city.

(Ord. No. 7346, § 2, 5-20-2019; Ord. No. 7223, § 4, 7-16-2012; Ord. No. 7171, § 2, 7-20-2009; Ord. 6543, §§ 1, 2, 3, 1993; Ord. 5351, § 1, 1978; Ord. 5079, § 9, 1972; Ord. 4583, § 2, 1962)

13.20.025 - Tier allocations.

The water supplied by the water division is divided by volume as measured in whole billing units into three tier allocations and based on Customer Classifications as indicated in the table below.

Monthly Tier Allocations
in Units of One Hundred Cubic Feet or One Billing Unit

Customer Classification Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3

Residential Single-Family Residential 0—7 8—29 Over 29

Multi-Family Residential* 0—5 6—10 Over 10

Commercial Commercial - Small (⅝"—1" meter size) 0—8 9—43 Over 43

Commercial - Medium (1½"—4" meter size) 0—52 53—265 Over 265

Commercial - Large (6" + meter size) 0—850 851—5,050 Over 5,050

  • Tier Allocations for Multi-Family Residential is per dwelling unit

(Ord. No. 7425, § 3, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7223, § 5, 7-16-2012; Ord. No. 7195, § 2, 7-12-2010; Ord. No. 7171, § 3, 7-20- 2009; Ord. 6932, § 2, 2003; Ord. 6543, § 4, 1993; Ord. 6213, § 4 (part), 1987; Ord. 5351, § 2, 1978)

13.20.030 - Service charges and rates.

A.

Fixed Charges.

Effective: July 1, 2024; July 1, 2025; July 1, 2026; July 1, 2027; and July 1, 2028, the monthly fixed charge per customer meter shall be as follows:

?Monthly Fixed Charge

Meter Size Effective July 1, 2024 Effective July 1, 2025 Effective July 1, 2026 Effective July 1, 2027 Effective July 1, 2028

⅝"—¾" $38.62 $43.25 $47.15 $50.92 $54.48

1" $60.19 $67.41 $73.48 $79.36 $84.91

1½" $114.11 $127.81 $139.31 $150.45 $160.98

2" $178.82 $200.28 $218.31 $235.77 $252.27

3" $475.40 $532.45 $580.37 $626.80 $670.68

4" $815.13 $912.94 $995.11 $1,074.72 $1,149.95

6" $1,731.84 $1,939.66 $2,114.23 $2,283.37 $2,443.20

8" $3,026.02 $3,389.14 $3,694.16 $3,989.70 $4,268.97

10" $4,535.90 $5,080.20 $5,537.42 $5,980.41 $6,399.04

B.

Variable Charges. The Variable Charges for all water delivered in Service Area A and Area B shall be:

Effective: July 1, 2024; July 1, 2025; July 1, 2026; July 1, 2027; and July 1, 2028, the monthly Variable Charge shall be as follows:

Variable Charge per Billing Unit
Note: Tier Allocations for Multi-Family is per dwelling unit

Class/Tier Monthly Tier July 1, 2024 July 1, 2025 July 1, 2026 July 1, 2027 July 1, 2028
Allocations

Single Family Residential

Tier 1 7 $2.24818 $2.51796 $2.74458 $2.96414 $3.17163

Tier 2 29 $5.92680 $6.63802 $7.23544 $7.81428 $8.36128

Tier 3 Over 29 $6.44550 $7.21896 $7.86867 $8.49816 $9.09303

Multi-Family Residential

Tier 1 5 $2.24209 $2.51114 $2.73714 $2.95611 $3.16304

Tier 2 10 $5.87186 $6.57648 $7.16836 $7.74183 $8.28376

Tier 3 Over 10 $6.24448 $6.99382 $7.62327 $8.23313 $8.80945

Commercial Small (⅝"—1" meter size)

Tier 1 8 $2.21109 $2.47642 $2.69930 $2.91524 $3.11931

Tier 2 43 $5.84411 $6.54540 $7.13448 $7.70524 $8.24461

Tier 3 Over 43 $6.19440 $6.93773 $7.56212 $8.16709 $8.73879

Commercial Medium (1½"—4" meter size)

Tier 1 52 $2.25510 $2.52571 $2.75303 $2.97327 $3.18140

Tier 2 265 $5.88262 $6.58853 $7.18150 $7.75602 $8.29894

Tier 3 Over 265 $6.36652 $7.13050 $7.77224 $8.39402 $8.98160

Commercial Large (6"+ meter size)

Tier 1 850 $2.27128 $2.54383 $2.77278 $2.99460 $3.20422

Tier 2 5,050 $5.94146 $6.65444 $7.25333 $7.83360 $8.38195

Tier 3 Over 5,050 $6.55430 $7.34082 $8.00149 $8.64161 $9.24652

C.

Drought Charges. Levels 1 through 4 correspond to Pasadena's Municipal Code, Chapter 13.10: Water Waste Prohibitions and Water Supply Shortage Plans. Stages 1 through 6 correspond to the six standard water shortage stages in Pasadena's Urban Water Management Plan which align with the requirements established in the California Water Code and the Urban Water Management Planning Act. As shown in the drought rate percentages below, the six stages allow for cross referencing with Pasadena's four existing Water Supply Shortage levels.

The charges for all water delivered shall be subject to an adjustment to reflect changes in revenue requirements to the department during a declared drought by either City Council or the Governor of the State of California. The responsibility to determine if the drought levels require an adjustment based on increased revenue requirements shall rest with the department and the authority to approve the adjustment shall rest with the general manager. The adjustment shall be the product of a percentage multiplied by the variable charges in this ordinance.

Drought Rate Percentages - Increases Shown as a Percentage to the Variable Rate

Water Supply Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Shortage Level

Standard Water Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Shortage Stage

Tier 1 0% 0% 10% 35% 58% 125%

Tier 2 11% 29% 52% 89% 152% 178%

Tier 3 17% 51% 77% 127% 175% 225%

D.

Special Provisions.

All water under this section is metered.

Reserved.

A charge set forth in the department's service regulations is made for each new account or customer originated account change. This charge is added to the first bill for service under the account.

Deposits. The general manager may require a deposit in reasonable amount to guarantee payment for water to be delivered subsequent to date of demand for such deposit. If customer fails to make such deposit after demand therefore, water service may be discontinued until such deposit in the amount required has been made.

(Ord. No. 7425, § 4, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7387, §§ 2, 3, 3-21-2022; Ord. No. 7346, § 3, 5-20-2019; Ord. No. 7223, §§ 6—8, 7-16-2012; Ord. No. 7195, § 3, 7-12-2010; Ord. No. 7171, § 4, 7-20-2009; Ord. 7147 § 1, 2008; Ord. 6932, § 3, 2003; Ord. 6840, § 1, 2000; Ord. 6663, §§ 1, 2, 1995; Ord. 6543, § 5, 1993; Ord. 6506, §§ 1, 2, 1992; Ord. 6413, § 1, 1991; Ord. 6355, §§ 1, 2, 1989; Ord. 6213, § 4, 1987; Ord. 6026, § 1, 1983; Ord. 5573, § 1, 1982; Ord. 5496, § 1, 1980; Ord. 5351, § 3, 1978; Ord. 5194, § 1, 1974; Ord. 5133, § 1, 1973; Ord. 5079, §§ 1, 2, 3, 1972; Ord. 5028, §§ 1—3, 1971; Ord. 4737, § 1, 1965; Ord. 4647, § 1, 1963; Ord. 4583, § 3, 1962)

13.20.035, 13.20.040 - Reserved.

Editor's note— Ord. No. 7425, § 5, adopted June 10, 2024, amended the Code by repealing former § 13.20.035, which pertained to capital improvements charge, and derived from Ord. 6932 of 2003; Ord. No. 7171, adopted July 20, 2009; Ord. No. 7223, adopted July 16, 2012; Ord. No. 7271, adopted December 14, 2015; Ord. No. 7346, adopted May 20, 2019; and Ord. No. 7387, adopted March 21, 2022. Ord. No. 7223, § 11, adopted July 16, 2012, repealed § 13.20.040, which pertained to water taken from fire hydrants and derived from Ord. 4583, § 4, 1962; Ord. 4647, § 2, 1963; Ord. 4737, § 3, 1965; Ord. 5079, § 9, 1972; Ord. 5496, § 2, 1980; Ord. 6213, § 5, 1987; Ord. 6506, § 5, 1992; Ord. 6663, §§ 5, 6, 1995; and Ord. 6932, § 5, 2003.

13.20.050 - Service—Municipal.

For water and water service supplied to other city departments, the department shall be paid out of the general fund, or other appropriate fund, as follows:

A.

Water for domestic purposes shall be supplied at the charges and rates established by Section 13.20.030.

B.

Water for park and power plant purposes shall be supplied at the rates established in Section 13.20.030.

C.

Water for street sprinkling or flushing and other non-domestic use shall be supplied at rates established in Section 13.20.030; except for street sweepers, small trucks or other vehicles used for general street maintenance by the public works department. Such vehicles may make unmetered connections to fire hydrants for street sweeping and drain flushing operations at a charge determined by the Department per vehicle per month.

(Ord. No. 7425, § 6, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7223, § 12, 7-16-2012; Ord. 6932, § 6, 2003; Ord. 6506, § 6, 1992; Ord. 6213, § 6, 1987; Ord. 6026, § 2, 1983; Ord. 5573, § 2, 1982; Ord. 5351, § 3, 1978; Ord. 5194, § 2, 1974; Ord. 5133, § 2, 1973; Ord. 5079, § 4, 1972; Ord. 5028, § 4, 1971; Ord. 4875, § 1, 1968; Ord. 4737, § 4, 1965; Ord. 4647, § 3, 1963; Ord. 4583, § 5, 1962)

13.20.060 - Service—Application and lateral charges.

Before water is supplied to any premises, the customer shall make application to the department. As a condition to granting such application and furnishing water to the premises, the customer shall comply with the requirements of the Department's water regulations and pay the department's actual cost to provide the service. In the event the customer requests a service lateral replacement, the customer shall pay the department's actual cost.

(Ord. No. 7223, § 13, 7-16-2012; Ord. 6932, § 6, 2003; Ord. 6663, §§ 11, 12, 1995; Ord. 6506, § 7, 1992; Ord. 6355, § 3, 1989; Ord. 6213, § 7, 1987; Ord. 5573, § 3, 1982; Ord. 5496, § 3, 1980; Ord. 5351, § 5, 1978; Ord. 5133, § 3, 1973; Ord.

5079, § 5, 1972; Ord. 5028, § 5, 1971; Ord. 4875, § 2, 1968; Ord. 4737, § 5, 1965; Ord. 4647, § 4, 1963; Ord. 4583, § 6, 1962)

13.20.070 - Service—Reservoir and pumping plant charges.

A reservoir and pumping plant charge shall be paid as a condition to granting water service to areas not presently served with water, or where the existing water system cannot provide adequate pressure and volume, including undeveloped areas that are to be annexed to the city. The reservoir and pumping charge shall be calculated by the department in subsequent years to reflect the cost of adding the necessary reservoir and pumping capacity.

(Ord. No. 7223, § 14, 7-16-2012; Ord. 6932, § 8, 2003; Ord. 6663, § 7, 1995; Ord. 6506, § 8, 1992; Ord. 5079, § 9, 1972; Ord. 4737, § 6, 1965; Ord. 4583, § 7, 1962)

13.20.080 - Water main charge.

A.

Before water is supplied from any existing water main installed subsequent to June 1, 1945, a water main charge or a special connection charge shall be paid by the owner/developer. If a special connection charge has been established for the main in question, then the special connection charge shall be paid. If no special connection charge has been established, then a water main charge based on the front footage of the premises to be served shall be paid. The amount of the front footage charge shall be based on the Department's then current cost of installing 6-inch water mains as determined by the general manager.

B.

Before water is served to any development requiring the installation of new mains or the extension of existing mains, the total cost of such new mains or extensions shall be paid. In cases where such new mains or extensions may be of benefit to more than a single development, the general manager may establish a special connection charge which shall be paid in lieu of the total cost of the main. The special connection charge shall be paid by all future connectors to the main or extension.

(Ord. No. 7223, § 15, 7-16-2012; Ord. 5351, § 6, 1978; Ord. 4737, § 7, 1965; Ord. 4583, § 8, 1962)

13.20.090 - Cost of other installations.

A.

In all cases where an installation is requested of the water division for any purpose not covered by other provisions of this chapter and such request is granted, the installation shall be made by the water division and the total cost shall be paid by the applicant.

B.

In any case where in this chapter it is stated that the water division shall make an installation on a total cost basis, the water division where expedient may make said installation on a fixed charge basis to be determined by the general manager of the water and power department.

(Ord. No. 7223, § 16, 7-16-2012; Ord. 5079, § 9, 1972; Ord. 4737, § 2, 1965; Ord. 4583, § 9, 1962)

13.20.100 - Meter reading and billings.

The variable rates for the several classes of water service are based on meter readings, read in units of 100 cubic feet. (A billing unit is 100 cubic feet of water or 748 gallons.)

A.

The water division may have bimonthly meter readings and billings.

B.

Opening and closing bills and bills for an irregular period are prorated on a 30-day-month basis.

C.

All charges for water and water service, as well as for refuse service, and all other charges, including taxes, surcharges and fees that are regularly assessed through the utility bill, are due and payable when rendered and become delinquent 30 days after the date rendered. In addition to any other remedy provided by law, there shall be assessed a penalty for delinquent bills pursuant to Section 1.08.080. The amount of such penalty shall be as set forth on the general fee schedule.

D.

If delinquent bills are not paid upon presentation, or on failure to comply with the rules and regulations established as a condition to the use of water, or to pay rates or any charges or penalty imposed in the time and manner herein provided, water may be turned off at any or all services where the customer is supplied with water until payment of the amount due is made. The appropriate reconnection and special service charges, in addition to all previously accrued charges, shall be made prior to having the service restored.

(Ord. No. 7425, § 7, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7223, § 17, 7-16-2012; Ord. 6663, § 8, 1995; Ord. 6495, § 3, 1992; Ord. 5331, § 3, 1977; Ord. 5079, § 9, 1972; Ord. 5028, § 6, 1971; Ord. 4647, § 5, 1963; Ord. 4583, § 10, 1962)

13.20.110 - Reserved.

Editor's note— Ord. No. 7425, § 8, adopted June 10, 2024, amended the Code by repealing former § 13.20.110, which pertained to purchased water adjustment charge, and derived from Ord. 6436 of 1991; Ord. 8640 of 2000; Ord. 6932 of 2003; and Ord. No. 7223, adopted July 16, 2012.

13.20.120, 13.20.125 - Reserved.

Editor's note— Ord. No. 7195, §§ 4 and 5, adopted July 12, 2010, repealed §§ 13.20.120 and 13.20.125, which pertained to refund or credit of water purchases under blocks 4 and 5, and block 5 rate relief, and derived from Ord. No. 7171, §§ 6, 7, 7-20-2009.

13.20.130 - Service—Fire—Private.

A.

The monthly rates for private fire service for private fire protection shall be at the following flat rates:

Effective: July 1, 2024; July 1, 2025; July 1, 2026; July 1, 2027; and July 1, 2028, the monthly rates for private fire service for private fire protection shall be at the following flat rates:

Monthly Private Fire Service

Meter Size July 1, 2024 July 1, 2025 July 1, 2026 July 1, 2027 July 1, 2028

4" $31.12 $34.86 $37.99 $41.03 $43.91

6" $90.40 $101.25 $110.37 $119.20 $127.54

8" $192.66 $215.77 $235.19 $254.01 $271.79

10" $346.46 $388.04 $422.96 $456.80 $488.77

12" $559.63 $626.79 $683.20 $737.85 $789.50

16" $1,192.59 $1,335.70 $1,455.91 $1,572.38 $1,682.45

B.

Service at the foregoing rates is for fire extinguishing purposes only and includes water for such purposes. If the department determines that water from a private fire service is used for other than fire extinguishing purposes, fire service may be discontinued or the department may install a fire flow meter at customer's expense and the service will be deemed a domestic service in all cases.

C.

No private fire service less than four inches in size shall be installed.

D.

Once instituted, fire service to any property may be terminated with written approval by the fire marshal.

E.

Charges for private fire protection service are the responsibility of the building owner.

(Ord. No. 7425, § 9, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7346, § 5, 5-20-2019; Ord. No. 7223, § 19, 7-16-2012; Ord. 6932, § 10, 2003; Ord. 6663, § 3, 1995; Ord. 6506, § 3, 1992; Ord. 6355, § 4, 1989; Ord. 6224, § 1, 1987; Ord. 6213, §§ 9, 10, 1987; Ord. 6026, § 3, 1983; Ord. 5573, § 4, 1982; Ord. 5194, § 11, 1974; Ord. 5133, § 4, 1973; Ord. 5079, § 6, 1972; Ord. 4647, § 6, 1963; Ord. 4583, § 11, 1962)

13.20.145 - Reserved.

Editor's note— Ord. No. 7425, § 10, adopted June 10, 2024, amended the Code by repealing former § 13.20.145, which pertained to fire protection surcharge, and derived from Ord. 5573 of 1982; Ord. 6213 of 1987; Ord. 6355 of 1989; Ord. 6056 of 1992; Ord. 6663 of 1995; Ord. 6932 of 2003; Ord. No. 7171, adopted July 20, 2009; and Ord. No. 7346 adopted May 20, 2019.

13.20.150 - Fire hydrants services.

A.

Fire hydrants shall be installed, repaired, and maintained by the department. Upon a customer's request, the customer shall be charged on an actual cost basis. Fire hydrants are provided for the principal purpose of extinguishing fires, and are for the use of the fire department and the department, and such other persons as may be authorized to do so by said departments.

B.

When any premise is changed in occupancy to multiple family, commercial or industrial use so as to cause a change in the water flow requirements to meet proper firefighting requirements in the opinion of the applicable fire authority, the owner of said property shall pay for the installation of a new hydrant or the enlargement of existing hydrants in accordance with the recommendations of the applicable fire authority.

C.

It shall be unlawful for any person to take water from a fire hydrant without first obtaining a permit and a portable meter from the department. The permit applicant shall pay a permit fee for each portable meter. The permit applicant shall use the portable meter only for the specific fire hydrant designated in the permit. The permit applicant shall also pay a deposit equivalent to the current costs of the fire hydrant assembly, meter and wrench. The deposit shall be refunded upon receipt of the fire hydrant, meter and wrench in satisfactory condition. Damaged fire hydrant assembly, meter or wrench shall be subject to forfeiture of the deposit.

D.

Any person who damages or destroys a fire hydrant shall be responsible to pay the department's actual costs of repairing or replacing the fire hydrant, in addition to any fines and penalties imposed by this code.

E.

The rates for water taken from a fire hydrant by permit for use other than fire suppression shall be the fixed and variable rates pursuant to Section 13.20.030.

F.

This section shall not apply to the city fire department or to government fire agencies which use water from fire hydrants for fire suppression purposes.

(Ord. No. 7425, § 11, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7223, § 20, 7-16-2012; Ord. 6932, § 13, 2003; Ord. 6663, § 13, 1995; Ord. 6506, § 9, 1992; Ord. 6355, § 6, 1989; Ord. 6213, § 13, 1987; Ord. 5573, § 6, 1982; Ord. 5496, § 4, 1980; Ord. 5351, § 10, 1978; Ord. 5133, § 5, 1973; Ord. 5079, §§ 8, 9, 1972; Ord. 4875, § 3, 1968; Ord. 4583, § 13, 1962)

13.20.160 - Fire hydrants—Additional installed.

When any premises is changed in occupancy to multiple family, commercial or industrial use so as to cause a change in the water flow requirements in the opinion of the applicable fire authority, the owner of said property shall pay for the installation of a new hydrant or the enlargement of existing hydrants in accordance with the recommendations of the applicable fire authority.

(Ord. No. 7223, § 21, 7-16-2012; Ord. 4875, § 4, 1968; Ord. 4583, § 13.5, 1962)

13.20.165 - Fire hydrants flow test charge.

Fire hydrant flow tests shall be conducted by the department when requested for the purpose of determining the availability of water for fire protection purposes. A charge determined by the Department for each flow test shall be paid by the person requesting such test.

(Ord. No. 7425, § 12, 6-10-2024; Ord. No. 7223, § 22, 7-16-2012; Ord. 6932, § 13, 2003; Ord. 6663, § 9, 1995; Ord. 6355, § 7, 1989)

13.20.170 - Adjustment of complaints.

The general manager of the water and power department shall determine the class of service to be supplied to any consumer and shall adjust complaints in connection therewith.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4737 § 2 (part), 1965; Ord. 4583 § 14, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 23, 7-16-2012)

13.20.180 - Permission required for connection.

A person may not tap, open or connect with a water main, pipe or service which forms a part of the water system of the city, without first obtaining written permission to do so from the service division of the water division which shall issue no such permit to or for any person who is delinquent in his indebtedness to the city for water or damage to hydrants.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4583 § 14, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 24, 7-16-2012)

13.20.190 - Action when property has more than 1 consumer.

A.

In all cases in which water is served to premises occupied by 2 or more different and independent consumers of water, which premises are held under 1 ownership, the owner or owners of such premises shall be and are required to provide for independent service to the curb line for each such independent consumer; provided, however, that if any owner of such premises so served with water agrees in writing to be responsible for and pay all money due for water used upon such premises, such independent service shall not be required. Should the owner or owners fail or refuse to provide such independent service or to assume responsibility for money due for water used upon such premises, the water division shall, after 30 days' notice to the consumers so served and to the owner or owners of such premises or the person in charge thereof, cut off the water from such premises until the independent services herein required are installed or the agreement assuming responsibility for money due for water served to the premises is made as herein provided.

B.

No consumer shall supply water to any person, firm or corporation on premises other than that owned or occupied by the consumer unless permission is granted by the water division, and in the event that such permission is granted, the owner or owners of such premises shall in writing guarantee the payment of all charges for water and water service serviced thereto. The water division shall give 30 days' notice in writing to all consumers served through such service before enforcing this section by turning off water; provided that such consumer may supply water to persons, firms or corporations for use in the performance of any contract for the improvement of any street or other public place after having received permission from the commercial division of the water division. But a permit may be denied to or for any person, firm or corporation whose indebtedness to the city for water or damage to hydrants is delinquent, or who has on one or more occasions taken water from the distributing system of the city or from the pipes of consumers connected with the distributing system of the city without having received the permission provided for herein.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4583 § 16, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 25, 7-16-2012)

13.20.200 - Cross connections.

Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations, Sections 7583 through 7605, requires that each water purveyor develop and implement a comprehensive backflow prevention program for protecting the public water supply from contamination or pollution.

Pasadena Municipal Code Title 14, Buildings and Construction, Chapter 14.20 creates the cross-connection control board consisting of the general manager of the water and power department, the director of planning and community development, and the health officer of the city or their duly appointed representatives.

The city council has adopted the "cross-connection control policy" as part of the water regulations that establishes rules and regulations relating to cross-connection and backflow prevention.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4583 § 17, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 26, 7-16-2012; Ord. No. 7364, § 13, 5-18-2020)

13.20.210 - Meter installation.

For the purpose of computing charges, each meter serving the customer's premises shall be considered separately, and readings of two or more meters will not be combined as equivalent to a measurement through one meter except when such combination is for the convenience of the department.

The charge for the installation of the meter requested shall be paid by the customer at actual cost.

A.

All meters installed by the water division shall remain at all times the property of the water division and shall be maintained, repaired and replaced by said division; provided that adjustments, repairs or replacements of any meter rendered necessary

by negligence, carelessness, or damage by the consumer, or any member of his family or anyone employed by him, including damage which may result from hot water or steam from boiler or otherwise, shall be paid for by such consumer to the division upon presentation of bill therefore; and in case the bill is not paid, the water shall be shut off from said premises without further notice and shall not be turned on until all charges are paid. If access to a meter or meter box is obstructed in any manner including the growing of plants or allowing them to grow, the depositing or allowing the deposit of any material or by the parking of any vehicle, the water division shall give a 15-day notice in writing to remove such obstruction before enforcing this provision by turning off the water. The notice shall be given to all of the consumers served by such meter.

B.

All water used on any premises where a meter is installed must pass through the meter. Consumer will be held responsible and charged for all water passing through the meter. When rate-of-flow tests indicate that an existing meter operates above its safe operating capacity, the city may require a consumer to install a larger meter and service at owner's cost.

C.

If water is served to the same premises through more than 1 meter, the water division may require a check valve on the consumer's side of each meter.

(Ord. 6932 § 14, 2003; Ord. 6663 § 10, 1995; Ord. 6355 § 8, 1989; Ord. 6213 § 14, 1987; Ord. 5496 § 5, 1980: Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4737 §§ 2 (part), 8, 1965; Ord. 4583 § 18, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 27, 7-16-2012)

13.20.220 - Shut-off valves.

All shut-off valves installed by the water division are for the use of the division, and may be used by the consumer only in case of emergency. For ordinary usage, all consumers shall provide their own valves.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4583 § 19, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 28, 7-16-2012)

13.20.230 - Service—Interruptions.

The water division shall have the authority to turn off water from mains and pipes of the system without notice. The water division will endeavor to give notice through the newspapers or otherwise if time and expediency permit. The water division will not be liable for damage which may result from an interruption in service.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4583 § 20, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 29, 7-16-2012)

13.20.240 - Access to private premises.

A.

Inspectors, foremen and employees of the water division whose duty it may be to enter upon private premises to make inspection, examination and tests of the pipes, fixtures or attachments used in connection with the water supply, shall be provided with a badge or other credentials to identify them as authorized agents of the water division.

B.

Any officer, inspector, foreman or other authorized employee of the water division shall, upon presentation of his badge or other credentials provided for in the preceding paragraph, have free access at all reasonable hours to any premises supplied with city water for the purpose of making any inspection, examination or tests of the entire water system upon said premises.

C.

In case any authorized employee is refused admittance to any premises, or being admitted shall be hindered or prevented from making such inspection, examination or tests, the general manager of the department may cause the water to be turned off from said premises after giving 24 hours' notice to the owner or occupant of said premises of his intention to do so.

D.

It is the duty of each officer and employee of the water division, upon resignation or dismissal, forthwith to deliver to said division all badges and credentials of the division held by him.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4737 § 2 (part), 1965; Ord. 4583 § 21, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 30, 7-16-2012)

13.20.250 - Diversion or theft of water and city rights.

A.

In applying for service in accordance with the terms of this chapter, it is understood and agreed that the water division may install and maintain such equipment on the consumer's premises as it deems necessary for the proper metering and distribution of water to prevent the theft thereof. Any person tampering with the equipment of the city for the purpose of avoiding payment of the rates herein prescribed shall be liable to punishment therefore pursuant to law. In case the property is vacant or the equipment installed is no longer needed, such equipment may be removed at any time upon order of the general manager of the department.

B.

Any person or agency apprehended using water without permission from a fire hydrant, service or other system connection will be charged for each occurrence a minimum of $500, or other such charge as may be established by resolution of the city council, plus the cost of water estimated to have been used. The department's actual costs of any investigation may be added thereto at the option of the general manager.

(Ord. 6932 § 15, 2003; Ord. 6554 § 3, 1993; Ord. 6214 § 1, 1987; Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4875 § 5, 1968; Ord. 4737 § 2 (part), 1965; Ord. 4583 § 22, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 31, 7-16-2012)

13.20.255 - Plan review and inspection charge.

Where a project requires the department to conduct a plan review or inspection or both, the customer or applicant shall pay the department's actual costs of providing these services. The department may require a deposit in advance to guarantee payment.

(Ord. 6932 § 16, 2003)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 32, 7-16-2012)

13.20.260 - Notice mailed.

All notices required to be given by the water division by this chapter may be given by depositing same in the United States mail, properly addressed, in a postage prepaid envelope. Upon such deposit, notices shall be deemed to have been given.

(Ord. 5079 § 9 (part), 1972; Ord. 4583 § 23, 1962)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 33, 7-16-2012)

13.20.270 - Service regulations and charge.

A.

The general manager of the water and power department shall, from time to time, approve service regulations and procedures relating to conditions of service, application, administration and interpretation of rates, or to any other provision of this chapter; provided, however, that any proposed new or revised charges or fees for reconnections and for various special services not otherwise provided for in this chapter shall be effective upon adoption thereof by resolution of the city council. No later than 30 days prior to the effective date of any amendments to such regulations, the proposed amendments shall be posted on PWP's website and the city council shall be notified in writing of such proposed amendments.

B.

On failure to comply with the service regulations of the department, or to pay charges, or to comply with penalties imposed for such failure as herein provided, water service may be discontinued until the regulations, charges, or said penalties are complied with or payment is made of the amount due.

(Ord. 5331 § 4, 1977)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 34, 7-16-2012; Ord. No. 7338, § 2, 2-4-2019)

13.20.280 - Customer's leaking water pipes.

When a customer's interior water pipes, those water pipes on the customer's side of the water meter, leak to an extent that water is being wasted, the customer is required to fix said leak in accordance with the conditions as set forth in the Pasadena Municipal Ordinance, Chapter 13.10, "Water Waste Prohibitions and Water Supply Shortage Plans." If said repairs are not completed within the specified period in the aforementioned ordinance, water service to the property shall be shut off. To have water service restored after such a shutoff it will be necessary for the customer to furnish proof of said repairs and apply for service to be reinstated under existing conditions of this chapter.

(Ord. 5573 § 8, 1982)

(Ord. No. 7223, § 35, 7-16-2012)

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▸Contents — Pasadena Municipal Code
Pasadena Municipal Code
  1. Article I — NAME AND BOUNDARIES
  2. Article II — SUCCESSION
  3. Article III — POWERS OF THE CITY
  4. Article IV — THE CITY COUNCIL
  5. Article V — LEGISLATION
  6. Article VI — THE CITY MANAGER
  7. Article VII — BOARD OF EDUCATION
  8. Article VIII — THE PERSONNEL SYSTEM
  9. Article IX — FISCAL ADMINISTRATION
  10. Article X — CONTRACTS, PURCHASES AND CLAIMS
  11. Article XI — FRANCHISES
  12. Article XII — ELECTIONS
  13. Article XIII — INITIATIVE, REFERENDUM AND RECALL
  14. Article XIV — WATER AND POWER UTILITY OPERATIONS
  15. Article XV — THE FIRE AND POLICE RETIREMENT SYSTEM
  16. Article XVI — PARK PRESERVATION
  17. Article XVII — TAXPAYER PROTECTION
  18. Article XVIII — THE PASADENA FAIR AND EQUITABLE HOUSING CHARTE…
  19. Title 1 — GENERAL PROVISIONS
  20. Title 1 — FOOTNOTES
  21. Chapter 2.05 — CITY COUNCIL
  22. Chapter 2.10 — CITY COUNCIL VACANCY APPOINTMENT PROCESS
  23. Chapter 2.20 — INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
  24. Chapter 2.25 — PARKING AUTHORITY
  25. Chapter 2.28 — SURPLUS PROPERTY AUTHORITY
  26. Chapter 2.30 — CITY ATTORNEY'S DEPARTMENT
  27. Chapter 2.35 — CITY CLERK'S DEPARTMENT
  28. Chapter 2.40 — CITY MANAGER'S DEPARTMENT
  29. Chapter 2.45 — ADVISORY BODIES GENERALLY
  30. Chapter 2.47 — ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION
  31. Chapter 2.48 — ACCESSIBILITY AND DISABILITY COMMISSION
  32. Chapter 2.55 — CODE ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION
  33. Chapter 2.60 — COMMUNITY POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION
  34. Chapter 2.65 — COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN
  35. Chapter 2.70 — COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
  36. Chapter 2.75 — HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
  37. Chapter 2.80 — DESIGN COMMISSION
  38. Chapter 2.85 — HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
  39. Chapter 2.86 — HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION
  40. Chapter 2.90 — LIBRARY COMMISSION
  41. Chapter 2.95 — NORTHWEST COMMISSION
  42. Chapter 2.98 — PARKING METER ZONES ADVISORY COMMISSIONS
  43. Chapter 2.100 — RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSION
  44. Chapter 2.105 — PLANNING COMMISSION
  45. Chapter 2.110 — RELOCATION APPEALS BOARD
  46. Chapter 2.120 — SENIOR COMMISSION
  47. Chapter 2.130 — SOUTH LAKE AVENUE PARKING PLACE COMMISSION
  48. Chapter 2.135 — TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMISSION
  49. Chapter 2.140 — ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMISSION
  50. Chapter 2.150 — HAHAMONGNA WATERSHED PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE
  51. Chapter 2.155 — PASADENA COMMUNITY ACCESS CORPORATION BOARD
  52. Chapter 2.165 — PASADENA CENTER OPERATING COMPANY BOARD
  53. Chapter 2.175 — THE ROSE BOWL OPERATING COMPANY
  54. Chapter 2.250 — RETIREMENT SYSTEM
  55. Chapter 2.255 — AGENCIES AND DEPARTMENTS GENERALLY
  56. Chapter 2.265 — PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPA…
  57. Chapter 2.266 — PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT
  58. Chapter 2.267 — LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT
  59. Chapter 2.268 — HOUSING DEPARTMENT
  60. Chapter 2.270 — PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
  61. Chapter 2.275 — FINANCE DEPARTMENT
  62. Chapter 2.280 — FIRE DEPARTMENT
  63. Chapter 2.285 — HUMAN RESOURCES
  64. Chapter 2.290 — INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
  65. Chapter 2.295 — POLICE DEPARTMENT
  66. Chapter 2.300 — PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
  67. Chapter 2.302 — RENT STABILIZATION DEPARTMENT
  68. Chapter 2.303 — TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT
  69. Chapter 2.305 — WATER AND POWER DEPARTMENT
  70. Chapter 2.350 — ACCEPTANCE OF SURETIES
  71. Chapter 2.355 — ADMINISTRATIVE RESOLUTION OF CODE VIOLATIONS
  72. Chapter 2.360 — EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN CITY EMPLOYMENT
  73. Chapter 2.365 — CLAIMS BY AND AGAINST THE CITY
  74. Chapter 2.370 — DISASTER EMERGENCY SERVICES COUNCIL
  75. Chapter 2.375 — EMERGENCY AUXILIARY FORCES
  76. Chapter 2.380 — HOUSING MEDIATION CONTRACTOR
  77. Chapter 2.385 — PERSONS AUTHORIZED TO ARREST PURSUANT TO PENAL…
  78. Chapter 2.390 — RECORD AND DOCUMENT FEES
  79. Chapter 2.395 — UNCLAIMED PERSONAL PROPERTY
  80. Chapter 2.400 — USE AND ACCESS OF CRIMINAL HISTORY INFORMATION
  81. Title 3 — CIVIC EVENTS AND FACILITIES
  82. Article I — General Provisions
  83. Article II — Permits
  84. Article III — Use Restrictions
  85. Article IV — Uses Requiring Permission
  86. Article V — Refunds—Penalties
  87. Chapter 3.28 — CIVIL DEFENSE TRAINING CENTER
  88. Chapter 3.32 — ARROYO SECO PUBLIC LANDS
  89. Article I — General Provisions
  90. Article II — Natural Preservation Area
  91. Article III — Brookside Park Area
  92. Article IV — Rose Bowl Area
  93. Article V — Brookside Golf Course Area
  94. Title 3 — FOOTNOTES
  95. Title 4 — REVENUE AND FINANCE
  96. Article 1 — General Provisions and Definitions
  97. Chapter 4.90 — CITY OF PASADENA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REVENUE B…
  98. Chapter 4.95 — PUBLIC WORKS BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS
  99. Chapter 4.100 — POWER DIVISION GENERAL FUND TRANSFER
  100. Chapter 4.101 — PASADENA TOURISM BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
  101. Chapter 4.105 — SALES TAX INCENTIVES
  102. Chapter 4.106 — MOBILE SOURCE AIR POLLUTION REDUCTION ORDINANCE
  103. Chapter 4.107 — CITY OF PASADENA SPECIAL TAX FINANCING IMPROVE…
  104. Chapter 4.108 — SEISMIC AND FIRE SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ASSESSMENT…
  105. Chapter 4.109 — LIBRARY SPECIAL TAX
  106. Title 4 — FOOTNOTES
  107. Chapter 5.02 — PAYMENT OF A CITY-WIDE MINIMUM WAGE
  108. Chapter 5.04 — GENERAL PROVISIONS
  109. Chapter 5.08 — DEFINITIONS
  110. Chapter 5.10 — LICENSE REGULATIONS
  111. Chapter 5.12 — EXEMPTIONS TO TAX
  112. Chapter 5.16 — FEES FOR MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESSES
  113. Chapter 5.20 — ADVERTISEMENTS
  114. Chapter 5.24 — ALARM SYSTEMS
  115. Chapter 5.28 — CANNABIS BUSINESS TAX
  116. Chapter 5.32 — BILLIARD AND POOL ROOMS
  117. Chapter 5.33 — BINGO GAMES
  118. Chapter 5.34 — CHARITABLE SOLICITATIONS
  119. Chapter 5.35 — CONCEALABLE FIREARMS—RETAIL SALES
  120. Chapter 5.40 — ESCORT BUREAUS
  121. Chapter 5.44 — FRANCHISE GRANTS FOR USE OF PUBLIC WAYS
  122. Chapter 5.45 — SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESSES
  123. Chapter 5.48 — MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENTS
  124. Chapter 5.56 — PAWNBROKERS, JUNK AND SECONDHAND DEALERS
  125. Chapter 5.60 — SALES AND CLOSE-OUTS
  126. Chapter 5.68 — UNDERGROUND FACILITIES USE
  127. Chapter 5.72 — VEHICLES FOR HIRE
  128. Chapter 5.74 — LICENSURE OF TOBACCO RETAILERS
  129. Chapter 5.78 — COMMERCIAL CANNABIS ACTIVITY
  130. Chapter 5.80 — COVID-19 RIGHT OF RECALL
  131. Chapter 5.82 — COVID-19 WORKER RETENTION ORDINANCE
  132. Title 5 — FOOTNOTES
  133. Title 6 — ANIMALS
  134. Title 6 — FOOTNOTES
  135. Title 8 — HEALTH AND SAFETY
  136. Title 8 — FOOTNOTES
  137. Title 9 — PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS AND WELFARE
  138. Chapter 9.20 — GAMING AND GAMBLING
  139. Chapter 9.24 — ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IN PUBLIC
  140. Chapter 9.26 — DEFECATION AND URINATION IN PUBLIC
  141. Chapter 9.28 — INDECENT EXPOSURE
  142. Chapter 9.36 — NOISE RESTRICTIONS
  143. Chapter 9.37 — LEAF-BLOWING MACHINES
  144. Chapter 9.40 — BALL GAME BACKSTOPS
  145. Chapter 9.41 — COMBUSTIBLE BALLOONS
  146. Chapter 9.42 — FORMATION FLYING
  147. Chapter 9.43 — FEES FOR SECOND OR SUBSEQUENT RESPONSE TO PROVI…
  148. Chapter 9.44 — DISTRIBUTION OF UNSOLICITED WRITTEN MATERIAL (R…
  149. Chapter 9.45 — UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS
  150. Chapter 9.48 — FIRE HYDRANTS
  151. Chapter 9.52 — TRESPASSING
  152. Chapter 9.56 — OBSTRUCTING PUBLIC PLACE OR BUSINESS
  153. Chapter 9.58 — ABANDONED VEHICLE ABATEMENT
  154. Chapter 9.60 — GRAFFITI ABATEMENT ORDINANCE
  155. Chapter 9.62 — ABANDONED SHOPPING CARTS
  156. Article VI — Consumer Protection
  157. Chapter 9.68 — CURFEW
  158. Chapter 9.69 — SEALING OF SEXUALLY EXPLICIT MATERIAL
  159. Chapter 9.70 — SALE AND DISPLAY OF NARCOTIC PARAPHERNALIA
  160. Chapter 9.75 — TENANT PROTECTION
  161. Chapter 9.76 — PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT
  162. Chapter 9.78 — UNSERIALIZED FIREARMS
  163. Chapter 9.80 — DISCHARGING
  164. Chapter 9.84 — HAZARDOUS WEAPONS
  165. Chapter 9.88 — FAIR CAMPAIGN PRACTICES AND DISCLOSURE ORDINANCE
  166. Chapter 9.89 — ELECTRONIC FILING OF CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE INFORM…
  167. Chapter 9.90 — REPORTING SALES OF UNREGULATED CHEMICALS
  168. Chapter 9.95 — EVICTION DUE TO ILLEGAL DRUG DEALING ACTIVITIES
  169. Chapter 9.97 — ELLIS ACT TENANT PROTECTIONS
  170. Title 9 — FOOTNOTES
  171. Title 10 — VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC
  172. Title 10 — FOOTNOTES
  173. Title 12 — STREETS AND SIDEWALKS
  174. Title 12 — FOOTNOTES
  175. ▸Title 13 — UTILITIES AND SEWERS
  176. Article I — Definitions and General Provisions
  177. Article II — Design and Construction
  178. Article III — Maintenance and Operation
  179. Chapter 13.28 — WATER MAIN ASSESSMENTS5
  180. Chapter 13.32 — GOVERNMENT CONTROLLED WATERCOURSES
  181. Title 13 — FOOTNOTES
  182. Title 14 — BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION
  183. Title 14 — FOOTNOTES
  184. Title 16 — SUBDIVISIONS
  185. Title 16 — FOOTNOTES
  186. Title 17 — Zoning Code
  187. Chapter 17.10 — Enactment and Applicability of Zoning Code
  188. Chapter 17.12 — Interpretation of Zoning Code Provisions
  189. Chapter 17.20 — Zoning Map
  190. Chapter 17.21 — Development and Land Use Approval Requirements
  191. Chapter 17.22 — Residential Zoning Districts
  192. Chapter 17.24 — Commercial and Industrial Zoning Districts
  193. Chapter 17.26 — Special Purpose Zoning Districts
  194. Chapter 17.28 — Overlay Zoning Districts
  195. Chapter 17.29 — Hillside Overlay Districts
  196. Chapter 17.30 — Central District Specific Plan
  197. Chapter 17.31 — East Colorado Specific Plan 2022
  198. Chapter 17.32 — East Pasadena Specific Plan
  199. Chapter 17.33 — Fair Oaks-Orange Grove Specific Plan
  200. Chapter 17.34 — North Lake Specific Plan
  201. Chapter 17.35 — South Fair Oaks Specific Plan
  202. Chapter 17.36 — West Gateway Specific Plan
  203. Chapter 17.37 — Lincoln Avenue Specific Plan
  204. Chapter 17.38 — Lamanda Park Specific Plan
  205. Chapter 17.39 — East Colorado Specific Plan 2003
  206. Chapter 17.40 — General Property Development and Use Standards
  207. Chapter 17.42 — Inclusionary Housing Requirements
  208. Chapter 17.43 — Density Bonus, Waivers and Incentives
  209. Chapter 17.44 — Landscaping
  210. Chapter 17.46 — Parking and Loading
  211. Chapter 17.48 — Signs
  212. Chapter 17.50 — Standards for Specific Land Uses
  213. Chapter 17.60 — Application Filing and Processing
  214. Chapter 17.61 — Permit Approval or Disapproval
  215. Article 2 — Zoning Districts, Allowable Land Uses, and Zone-Sp…
  216. Chapter 17.62 — Historic Preservation
  217. Chapter 17.64 — Permit Implementation, Time Limits, and Extens…
  218. Chapter 17.66 — Development Agreements
  219. Chapter 17.68 — Specific Plans
  220. Chapter 17.70 — Administrative Responsibility
  221. Chapter 17.71 — Nonconforming Uses, Structures, and Lots
  222. Chapter 17.72 — Appeals
  223. Chapter 17.74 — Amendments
  224. Chapter 17.76 — Public Hearings
  225. Chapter 17.78 — Enforcement
  226. Chapter 17.80 — Glossary of Specialized Terms and Land Use Types
  227. Title 18 — CABLE, VIDEO AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE PROVIDERS

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