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Iowa City Water Division
Customer Service: Jude Moss
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Iowa City Water Division
Policy and Procedures Manual
April 2010
Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Public Water Main Ownership ............................................................................................................... 2
Definitions .............................................................................................................................................. 2
Private Water Main/Service Ownership ................................................................................................. 2
Leaks on Private Service Lines and Distribution Mains......................................................................... 2
City Not Liable For Damages................................................................................................................. 2
Abandoned Service Lines....................................................................................................................... 3
Private Service and Private Water Main Locating Service..................................................................... 3
Supply of Distribution and Service Materials......................................................................................... 4
Water Main Taps.......................................................................................................................................... 4
Tap Application ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Tapping Service Scheduling................................................................................................................... 5
Water Division Tapping Policy .............................................................................................................. 5
Excavation and Main Tapping Procedures ............................................................................................. 5
Excavation for Tap ................................................................................................................................. 6
Water Main Preparation.......................................................................................................................... 6
Tracer Wire on Water Mains .................................................................................................................. 7
Water Service Lines ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Water Use for Construction Purposes..................................................................................................... 7
Property Owner Responsibilities ............................................................................................................ 7
Private Service Lines .............................................................................................................................. 8
Private Service Line Locations............................................................................................................... 8
Adjacent Property................................................................................................................................... 8
4” or Greater Private Service Lines and Distribution Mains .................................................................. 8
1” to 2” Service Lines............................................................................................................................. 8
Multi-Unit Buildings .............................................................................................................................. 9
Splitting an Existing Water Service........................................................................................................ 9
Fire Sprinkler System Off Service Line ................................................................................................. 9
Backflow Prevention .............................................................................................................................. 9
Water Meters .............................................................................................................................................. 10
Meter Installation Policy ...................................................................................................................... 10
Requirements for Enclosures Around Water Meters ............................................................................ 10
Meter Installation Procedures............................................................................................................... 11
Single Purpose Meter (Watering Meter)............................................................................................... 12
Billing for a Single Purpose Meter (Watering Meter) .......................................................................... 13
Meter Tampering and Unauthorized Water Consumption.................................................................... 13
Meter Inspections Permitted................................................................................................................. 13
Meter Damage ...................................................................................................................................... 13
Meter Tests ........................................................................................................................................... 14
Fire Hydrants.............................................................................................................................................. 14
Fire Hydrant Usage............................................................................................................................... 14
Bulk Water Station..................................................................................................................................... 16
Attachments
1 Water Service Diagram……………………………16
1a Repair Responsibility Diagram……………………17
2 and 2a Tap Abandonment Agreement…………………….18
3 Private Service Location Waiver…………………..19, 20
4 Excavations made in Type C Soil………………….21
5 Meter Installation……………………………...…...22
6 Installation of a Single Purpose Meter……………..23
7 Hydrant Meter Application Form…………………..24
8 Tap Requirements……………………………..……25
(Revised 4/12/10)
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Responsibilities
Public Water Main Ownership
The Iowa City Water Division delivers water to customers through the water mains
installed in public rights-of-way and occasionally in easements on private property. The
City of Iowa City owns and is responsible for public water mains, valves, fire hydrants,
water meters and remote meter reading devices.
Definitions
City Distribution Water Main – Water pipe, valves, and hydrants owned, operated and
maintained by the City and used for the purpose of distribution of potable water and fire
protection.
Private Distribution Water Main – Water pipe, valves, and hydrants owned and
maintained by a private property owner and used for the purpose of distribution of
potable water and fire protection on private property.
Private Water Service Line – The pipe laid from the public or private distribution water
main to the point of service or building served. The service line includes stop boxes,
pipes, valves and fittings between the public or private water main and the water meter.
Private Water Main/Service Ownership
Private mains and service lines from the publicly owned distribution water mains,
including but not limited to corporation stops, saddles, curb stops, stop boxes, lines,
hydrants, and valves inside the building are owned by the private property owner. The
design and installation shall be in conformance with the Iowa City Municipal Design
Standards and Water Distribution Specification-02661, and Water Service Work for
Contractors Specifications-02665. It is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain
each of the above in good working condition at all times.
Leaks on Private Service Lines and Distribution Mains
Any leak or other defect in a private service line or private distribution main must be
promptly repaired (within 72 hours of notification). If not repaired promptly, the City
shall, after written notice to the owner, turn off the water until such repairs have been
made. If the water cannot be turned off, the City will hire a private excavator to complete
the repairs and charge the property owner for the work. If it is determined during repairs
or construction that a customer’s water service line is constructed of lead or galvanized
steel, the Water Division will recommend to the customer that the line be replaced with
Type “K” copper, ductile iron or plastic pipe. This is due to health reasons and the
potential for leaks. (See Attachment 1 on service leaks.)
City Not Liable For Damages
The City is not responsible for any damage that may occur when turning on or off private
service lines or mains. It is the property owner’s sole responsibility to keep the service
line and main apparatus in good working condition.
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Abandoned Service Lines
The property owner will permanently cap off, at the public or private distribution water
main, all water service lines that are no longer in use. This entails excavating to the tap
on the main, shutting the corporation stop and disconnecting the service line from the
corporation. The old, unused stop box must be removed. If the abandoned service has a
tapping sleeve and valve or a tapping saddle, these must be completely removed from the
water main. This would involve a water main shut down and will require the planning
and assistance of the Water Division. It is best to complete this work when demolishing
the building or making a new tap. The property owner must complete this work within
one year from the date of abandonment. A one-year tap abandonment agreement must be
signed and filed at the Water Division Office if a disconnection extension is requested or
a service is to be reused at a future date. If not completed in the scheduled time, the City
or its’ agent will complete the work and bill the property owner listed on the
abandonment agreement. (See Attachments 2 and 2A)
Water Utility Locating Service
The City of Iowa City owns the water distribution mains, which are located in the public
right-of-way or utility easement. Information, records and maps for the location of these
mains will be furnished to interested parties. Locations are scheduled through the Iowa
One-Call Utility Location Service.
White-lining or a joint meet request is required for contractors and strongly urged for
homeowners for all proposed excavation sites in Iowa City. White markings indicate a
proposed excavation. When excavators outline their proposed excavation areas with
white paint, they can expect more precise, safer locates and assist all utility locators in
making the most efficient use of time.
Installation of new utilities must maintain a 5-foot minimum horizontal clearance from all
water mains.
Private Service and Private Water Main Locating
A private contractor usually installs private water distribution mains and services. The
property owner is responsible for these private lines from the connection (referred to as
the “tap”) at the public owned distribution main. As part of our normal locating
procedures, Water Division staff will locate public mains and valves. Staff will also
locate private stop boxes if there are records on file at the Water Office.
The Water Division will, upon request, provide information and assistance in an effort to
locate pipes, valves, stop boxes on private water distribution mains and services. The
Water Division makes no assurances to the accuracy or validity of the records, maps or
information and discretion should be used when making use of these records. This
service will depend on the availability of personnel and scheduling conflicts. The
following procedure will be followed:
A location request for a private water main or service will be received at the Iowa
City Water Division either by phone or through the Iowa One-Call Utility Location
Service.
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The person placing the request must schedule an appointment to meet Water Division
personnel at the location site. This will be scheduled by calling the Water Division
Office at 356-5160.
When available, any mapping or drawing of the private lines will be provided by the
property owner and presented at the scheduled meeting.
Because a private contractor installed these private lines, the Water Division cannot
guarantee the accuracy of these locations. Therefore, a waiver (See Attachment 3),
provided by the Water Division must be signed by the property owner or his agent.
The property owner or his agent will be charged at a rate of $30.00 per hour (with a
minimum fee of $30.00) for time over 30 minutes. The locator will keep track of the
start and end time. Extra charges apply outside of normal working hours.
A minimum $40.00 after hours fee will be charged for the first hour and actual
overtime wages for each additional hour. Normal working hours are Monday through
Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The City of Iowa City is a member of the Iowa One Call Utility Location Service and
follows the procedures and policies as set forth in the “Iowa One Call Professional
Excavators Manual”. The Water Division requires at least 48 hours advance notice to
Iowa One-Call, 1-800-292-8989, for normal locates.
Supply of Distribution and Service Materials
The Water Division maintains an inventory of pipe, valves, fittings and other water main
materials and water service materials for construction and repair of the water distribution
system. It is the policy of the Water Division to help the public or contractors during
emergency situations by supplying parts or materials for their work when available. Cost
of the materials used will be the responsibility of the contractor. We do not stock a
variety or quantity of parts inventory for smaller water services, especially for lead or
galvanized lines.
Water Main Taps
Water Service Tap Application and Tap Fees
The excavation contractor is required to obtain an excavation permit from the City
Engineering Division and a tap application from Housing and Inspection Services. The
water tap application fee, based on the size of the water tap, will be paid at this time.
Listed below are the fee charges:
• 1-inch through 2-inch tap………..……………….$ 90.00
• 4-inch tap…………………………………………$440.00
• 6-inch tap…………………………………………$480.00
• 8-inch tap…………………………………………$510.00
• 10-inch tap………………………………………..$560.00
• 12-inch tap………………………………………..$610.00
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The tapping application form must include all the appropriate names, addresses, and
telephone numbers. No tap will be made if these forms are not on file at the Water
Division Office or made available at the tap site. Completed tap applications may be
faxed to the Water Division Office at 356-5167.
Tapping Service Scheduling
Taps will be scheduled as workload allows. The Water Division Office does not schedule
taps on short notice, except for emergencies. Taps can be scheduled Monday through
Friday from 7:30 - 2:30 p.m., unless otherwise approved.
Water Division Tapping Policy
All taps must be done by Water Division personnel, including taps made on private
water mains. It is important for the City to insure the quality of materials and
workmanship and to obtain location information on water main and water service
construction. Taps will not be made on new water main if the City’s final main
inspection process is not completed.
• Iowa City Water Division Customer Service personnel will make all 1-inch through
2-inch taps. The minimum size tap allowed is 1-inch.
• Iowa City Water Distribution personnel will make taps that are 4-inch through 12”.
Taps larger than 12” will be arranged by the Water Division.
• Taps will be made only if a foundation is constructed.
• All 1-inch through 2-inch taps require a service saddle.
• Connections larger than 2” require the installation of a tapping sleeve and valve at the
main.
• Tapping sleeves, tapping valves and related appurtenances will be provided by the
contractor. Water Distribution personnel must inspect and approve these materials.
• Corporation stops, curb stops, stop boxes, service saddles and related appurtenance
will be provided by the contractor. Water Customer Service personnel must inspect
and approve these materials.
• Installation of a tee instead of a tap is not allowed unless pre-approved by the Water
Division.
Excavation and Main Tapping Procedures
The owner or his authorized agent shall be responsible for insuring the excavation site
complies with the OSHA Excavation Rules 29CFR 1926 or latest revisions. (See
Attachment 4).
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Water Division personnel will not enter ditches that are unprotected against cave-ins.
The owner or his authorized agent shall provide a safe means of egress and at least one
person on the site during the tapping operation. This person will remain at the edge of
the ditch to assist the Water Division service person and to watch the banks for possible
cave-ins.
Excavation for Tap
The excavator will make the excavation required for the tapping of a water main.
• The floor of the excavation will be level and a minimum of 36-inches wide and
extended under and entirely around the main leaving a clearance of at least 12-inches.
• The excavation for taps 4-inch and larger must be excavated 8 feet out from the face
of the main and 6 feet wide.
• The excavation for taps 1-inch through 2-inch must be excavated a minimum of 3 feet
out from the face of the main and a minimum of 1 foot from the back of the main.
(See Attachment 8.)
• The floor of the excavation must be excavated at least 12-inches below the center of
the main.
• A ladder must be used for entry and exit purposes.
• Ditch shoring and sloping will meet OSHA guidelines.
• Place spoil piles at least 2 feet away from the edge of the banks. Remove any loose
dirt from the street side of the ditch to minimize the chance of the dirt falling or
rolling into the ditch.
• Tapping of a main through a tunnel with dirt or concrete overhead will not be
allowed.
• Taps will not be located on hydrant runs without prior approval from the Water
Division.
• Taps on the backside or the top of the main will be made only with the approval of
the Water Division.
• Taps will not be made within 5 feet of a hydrant or valve and 24- inches from the end
of a bell or from another tap.
Water Main Preparation
• Expose 3-4 feet of main. Scrap and clean all dirt and mud from this area. This is to
insure a water tap is not too close to any existing bell joint, fittings or taps and that
the tapping area is clear to allow room for the tapping equipment.
• The width of the ditch, in the direction of the service, must be a minimum of 36-
inches unless there is another utility or an obstruction preventing this.
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• For taps 1-inch through 2-inch, install the saddle on the water main before the tap is
made. The best location for the tap on the main is at an angle 45° down from the top
of the water main. (See Attachment 8.) Water Division personnel will inspect the
installation of the saddle, including applying the correct torque, and then complete the
tap on the water main.
All of these guidelines are to be followed. In the event of the occurrence of any
unforeseen circumstances, the Water Division employee will decide any alternatives to
the normal procedure.
Tracer Wire on Water Mains
Tracer wire shall be installed on all water mains, PVC and ductile iron. If this wire is cut
or damaged during an excavation for a water tap or service repair, we are unable to locate
the water main. Therefore, the wire must be spliced back together using an approved
tracer wire connector. The Water Division will provide these connectors. When the
work is completed, Water Division personnel must inspect it before the excavation site is
filled in.
Water Service Lines
Water Use for Construction Purposes
“On Construction Water” is a temporary water service for a premise under construction.
Construction water may not be used for irrigation, dust suppression, or settling dirt
around foundations.
An “on construction” water account is established in the contractor’s name when the
Water Division personnel tap a water main. This starts the billing process. The name of
the contractor listed on the building permit filed at Housing and Inspection Services is
used. The contractor’s fees are $15.00 per month for single and multi-family residences
and $25.00 per month for commercial structures. There is a 90 day limit, from the date of
the tap, for “on construction” water. After that time, the contractor must request an
extension date or the “on construction” fee will increase to $100/month. This fee, once
charged, will not be waived.
If the contractor does not want an “on construction” water account established, they must
contact the Water Division (356-5160). The Water Division will verify that the water is
off at the stop box and will assign an extension date. There is a $100 penalty charge to
the contractor if someone other than the Water Division turns the water on after Water
Division personnel have inactivated it.
Property Owner Responsibilities
All water service lines are installed, owned and maintained by the property owner.
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Private Service Lines
The property owner is responsible for the water service line at the connection to the City-
owned main. This line consists of a corporation stop and saddle – located at the water
main; and a curb stop and stop box – generally located between the sidewalk and street
curb. On larger services, this includes a tapping sleeve, valve and valve box.
Every property, including each unit of a zero-lot line residence, must have a direct service
connection (“tap”) to a public water main.
Duplexes with one tap will have two stop boxes, after a tee, for separation of each side.
Each stop box must be marked to identify which unit it goes it goes to. Installation of a
master box before the tee is recommended. Each stop box must be marked to identify the
correct individual metered service.
Private Service Line Locations
Service pipes must be laid in a straight line at right angles to the water main and
connection made within two lines drawn parallel to the sides of the building or not more
than three feet outside of these sides.
Adjacent Property
All service pipes will be laid in streets, alleys or public ground to the premises to be
served and enter at the front or rear of the building nearest the main. Water service pipes
cannot be constructed across private lots or buildings to adjoining premises.
4” or Greater Private Service Lines and Distribution Mains
Private service lines and water distribution mains 4” or greater must be installed per the
design standards and construction specifications of the Department of Public Works. The
lines must be bacterial and pressure tested and flushed. These activities are the
responsibility of the property owner.
1” to 2” Service Lines
Water services must be Type “K” copper pipe from the main to the stop box with the
proper size corporation stop, curb shut off and valve installed on the service line. Stop
boxes must be flush with the surrounding ground or surface, visible from the sidewalk
and, when possible, located in the City right-of-way. Stop boxes should not be installed
in sidewalks or driveways. The Water Division must approve any exceptions to this. If
the stop box is installed in a sidewalk or driveway a cement-style stop box lid must be
used on the stop box.
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Multi-Unit Buildings
A multi-unit building may either have one water meter installed to service the building or
may request separate meters for each unit.
If separate meters are requested, there must be either an outside stop box for each account
(this includes a water only meter installed for sprinkling, etc.) or the meters must be
located in a common utility room with outside access. The contractor or owner will
furnish a key or key code to this common utility room. If multiple stop boxes are
installed, they must be marked to identify the correct individual metered services.
If the property owner cannot meet these conditions, all accounts will stay in the property
owner’s name and the property owner will be responsible for billing. Unpaid bills on any
of the accounts will result in a shut-off carding to all accounts. All accounts will then be
shut off at the common stop box.
Splitting an Existing Water Service
The property owner must meet the following conditions to split a water service to an
existing property where there is only one existing stop box:
• Install stop boxes for each metered account.
• Use the existing stop box and locate the meters in a common utility room and furnish
a key to the Water Division. Water Division personnel will not enter through an
apartment or business.
• If property owner requests separate meters and cannot meet the conditions stated
above, all accounts will stay in the property owner’s name. The property owner will
be responsible for the billing. Unpaid bills on any of the accounts will result in a
shut-off carding to all accounts. All accounts will then be shut off at the common
stop box.
Fire Sprinkler System Off Service Line
When there is a fire sprinkler system in a building with only one water meter installed,
the private water service line must be tapped outside with a separate shut-off valve or
“stop box” so fire service isn’t compromised if the domestic water service is shut off.
You may tap the domestic line off the fire line. Install stop boxes a minimum of five feet
away from the outside of the building.
Backflow Prevention
All new construction and remodels of existing facilities that have potential cross-
connections must have a containment device installed. Copies of the 1993 Iowa City
Amendments to the Uniform Plumbing Code and the Iowa City Backflow Ordinance are
available at the Building Inspection Offices at 410 E. Washington Street.
9
Water Meters
Meter Installation Policy
The Water Division furnishes the meter and outside reading device to ensure a standard
system. A licensed plumber shall install the meter unless the homeowner is doing his/her
own work. The contractor or their agent shall run the cable to the outside. All cable must
be UV protected, 22 gauge, 3-wire. There should be 12-inches of excess cable at the
water meter and at the outside wall. The new outside reading device will be located on
the outside, either on the front of a structure a minimum of three feet from the ground or
on the side (close to the front) of the structure a minimum of 4 feet from the ground. No
exceptions. It shall be installed in an easily accessible area. The contractor must clearly
mark multiple meters and cables inside and out to show the connection with the
appropriate housing unit or address.
Meters Installation (See Attachment 5)
• Plumb meters horizontally and with the meter register straight up.
• All meters must be visible for meter reading.
• The center of the meter ends must be a minimum of 5-inches away from any wall,
water heater, water softener, or any other object for proper meter spacing.
• Meters may not be placed behind a water softener, furnace, water heater, etc. They
must be accessible at all times.
• Meters 2-inch or smaller must be not less than 12-inches or no more than 36-inches
from the floor, measured to the bottom of the pipe entering or leaving the meter.
• Stack multiple meters with a minimum clearance of 8-inches between meter ends.
Make sure the piping for the meters is properly supported and will stay in place
independent of the water meter.
• There must be an inlet valve before and an outlet valve after each meter plus a master
valve if there are multiple meters. This does not include the RPZ valve. These valves
must be easily accessible.
Requirements for Enclosures Around Water Meters
• Both the front and backside valves must be contained in a water meter enclosure and
be easily accessible.
• The opening to the enclosure must be a minimum of 2’ x 2’ for 5/8” to 1” meters,
3’ x 3’ for 1 1/2” to 2” meters, with the door centered directly in front of the meter
setting.
• The opening should be a hinged door type and must allow room for a container to
catch the backflow water during a water meter change.
• Meters must be installed so that the digits can be easily read on the meter register.
10
If the Water Division personnel determine that the meters are not easily accessible or that
problems or damage could occur because of the meter installation, the property will not
pass a final meter inspection.
Meter Installation Procedures
The following are the steps for meter installation:
• The property must have a service tap completed before a meter will be given out.
• Call the Water Division Office to schedule a meter pickup. Advance notice is
required. This meter is assigned to a specific address and is signed out by a licensed
plumber. A start reading is obtained from the meter at this time. The service account
numbers are programmed into the meter register at the time of pickup.
• On the date that the meter is signed out by the plumber, the account is taken “off
construction” and set up as a “no final” account in the contractor’s name. This will
start the minimum billing process. The reading taken from the meter is used as the
start read for billing. The meter will not be read again until the final meter inspection
is completed. Therefore, it is important for plumbers to install the meter as close to
the sign out date as possible to ensure extra billings are not incurred.
• A meter fee will be charged on the first bill and based on the size of the meter. This is
a one-time only, nonrefundable fee.
• Upon completion of the installation of the meter, cable and plumbing, the contractor
or the contractor’s authorized agent shall make an appointment for verification that
the installation is correct. Water Division personnel will install the outside reading
device and wire the cable to the meter head. If the meter and cable do not pass the
final inspection, the account will stay in the contractor’s name until the problem is
resolved. It is the contractor’s or the plumber’s responsibility to make any changes
and call the Water Division to complete the meter inspection. The premises will pass
a final meter inspection if:
• The correct wire is installed.
• A wire is installed to the front of the property.
• Correct gauge or type of wire is installed.
• Valves are properly placed.
• Meter is properly installed.
• Multiple meters and cables are clearly marked to show the connection with the
appropriate housing unit or address.
• Multiple stop boxes are marked to identify the correct individual metered services.
11
• Stop boxes are flush with the surrounding ground or surface and in good working
condition. If the stop box is located in a driveway or sidewalk, a cement-style stop
box lid must be installed.
• At the time of the final meter inspection, a key or door code is provided at the final
meter inspection for access to a meter utility room.
Upon completion of an approved final meter inspection, Water Division personnel will
obtain a meter reading. At this time, the City Revenue Division removes the contractor’s
name from the billing if they have a service card and deposit on file for the new owner or
tenant. The read taken at the time of the final meter inspection is used for the final
contractor billing. If there is no new owner, the billing will stay in the contractor’s name.
If the contractor will not be using water at this time and does not want to receive
minimum billings for water, sewer, refuse and recycling, contact the Water Division at
356-5160 to request a remove order. A storm sewer fee will still be charged
It is very important for the contractor to call the Water Division when he/she sells the
property to make sure the proper name is on the billing. If the contractor relies on the
new owner, there may be a bill to the contractor for water used after he/she sells the
property. It is also important to complete the final inspection in a timely manner. The
water billing will stay in the contractor’s name until the property passes this inspection,
even if the new owners are living there.
Single Purpose Meter (Watering Meter)
A single purpose meter is any water meter used to measure water that does not go to the
City sanitary sewer system. The purpose is to provide water service that does not impact
on the sanitary sewer system. Because this water does not cause any expense to the
sanitary sewer system, there is no sewer charge. (See Attachment 6.)
Install a single purpose meter in the same manner as a new meter. There is a one-time
only, nonrefundable meter fee in addition to the inspection procedure. The size of the
water meter determines this fee. The contractor/homeowner is charged the meter fee and
connect fee on their water bill. Locate the new outside reading device on the front for
new construction and next to the existing device on pre-existing houses. It should be
easily accessible. Improper installation of the outside reading device will result in a failed
final meter inspection. Do not install a deducting meter.
The single purpose meter, like the dual-purpose meter, must be valved on both the inlet
and outlet sides. Install a backflow preventer valve on the outlet side if the plumbing
does not already include these on all the hose bibs connected to the meter.
Normally, the Water Division does not remove a single purpose meter temporarily from
service during the winter months. (The only exception is a situation where the meter is in
an unheated and unprotected area.)
The property owner must hire a plumber to permanently remove a single purpose meter.
The plumber must physically restore the plumbing with a solder cap so that all the water
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is going through the dual-purpose meter. An inspection appointment must be scheduled
with the Water Division before the account will be permanently inactivated.
Billing for a Single Purpose Meter (Watering Meter)
• If the bill period is between November 1 and March 31, inclusive, there will be no bill
when there is no usage.
• If the bill period begins before November 1 or ends after March 31 and there is no
usage, we will bill only when the period “before” or “after” exceed 15 days —
minimum charges on water and additional state tax would apply.
• If the bill period begins before November 1 or ends after March 31 and there is
usage, we will bill for the total period, minimum plus any usage exceeding the
minimum consumption.
Meter Tampering and Unauthorized Water Consumption
No person except an authorized employee of the Water Division shall, in any way,
interfere with installed water meters. This is considered a municipal infraction and will
result in a penalty against the property owner at a rate established in the Iowa City Code
of Ordinances (Section 1-2-2B-2).
The following items are prohibited:
• Tampering with meters
• Interfering with meters
• Unauthorized consumption of unmetered water
Meter Inspections Permitted
All persons occupying and/or owning property where City water meters are located will
permit the Water Division to inspect and make appropriate repairs/upgrades on all water
meter and metering equipment on or within the property. If City access is not permitted to
the meter, the water may, after written notice to the property owner, be turned off by the
Water Division until access is allowed. This may require that the Water Division hire a
contractor to install or repair a stop box or to excavate at the public water main and shut
the water off at the service tap connected to the main.
Meter Damage
The owner of the property where a water meter is located is responsible for the care and
protection of the water meter and metering equipment. In all cases, where water meters
are broken or damaged, except from ordinary wear and tear, the Water Division will
make the necessary repairs to the water meter, and the property owner will pay the cost of
the repairs.
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Meter Tests
Whenever a water customer has reasonable grounds to believe a water meter is not
operating according to performance standard of an appropriately installed and operating
meter, the owner of the property may request and the Water Division will perform a test
on the water meter. The customer will be billed $35 for the cost for performing the test,
if the meter is found to be performing accurately.
Fire Hydrants
Fire Hydrant Usage
A fire hydrant’s primary usage is for the fighting of fires, therefore operation is restricted
to Fire Department personnel and Public Works personnel.
When the owners or occupants of any premises are found to be using water from a private
fire protection system for purposes other than fire protection, the City of Iowa City may
impose a penalty against the property owner at a rate established by the Iowa City Code
of Ordinances. (Section 1-2-2B-2)
The Iowa City Water Division will approve the use of a hydrant and valve to contractors
and plumbers for projects when they justify that it is not feasible to:
a. Use a non-hydrant source such as an outside faucet from a nearby
building or house
b. Use the bulk water station located at 1200 S. Riverside Dr.
to fill tank trucks. (This system works on tokens.)
1. Tokens may be purchased at the Civic Center,
410 E. Washington Street or the Transit Building
at 1200 S. Riverside Dr. The cost is $.50 for
200 gal.
2. The bulk water station is closed during the
winter months.
c. Make a tap for permanent water use and set a temporary
construction meter
d. Use any of the above sources because large volumes of
water are needed
Meters and equipment will be issued for specific projects at specific addresses
and will be assigned for a maximum period of two weeks. An extension may
be given by the City Backflow Coordinator depending on availability of the
meter.
14
The Water Division will choose the hydrant to be used on a project and reserves
the right to refuse the use of certain hydrants that are considered “at risk” by the
Water Division. Weather conditions, such as temperatures below freezing, will
also be considered before a hydrant may be used. These meters will not be
installed in the winter months.
The Water Division will allow the use of the hydrant and supply the hydrant
meter and valve. The contractor or plumber will supply the appropriate
backflow device (as determined by the City Backflow Coordinator) and any
hoses, couplings or fittings. The contractor or plumber will be responsible for
testing and maintaining the backflow device. Testing will be done by a certified
backflow technician.
2. Deposit:
A deposit of $500.00 is required for the use of the hydrant meter and valve. The
deposit must be paid at the time the hydrant use application is completed with the
Backflow Coordinator. The deposit will be held in escrow until the hydrant is no
longer in use and the meter is removed from the hydrant. Upon return of the
meter and payment of the final bill, the deposit will be mailed to the applicant,
less any outstanding charges due to the Water Division.
3. Fees:
The charges from the City are as follows:
a. A $50 connect fee and $50 disconnect fee (this fee does not include
extra trips or after hours work)
b. A minimum fee of $30 for water (plus tax), 1-900 cubic feet
c. $3.15 per 100 cubic feet of water (plus tax) over 900 cubic feet
4. Procedure:
A “Hydrant Meter Application Form” must be completed and submitted to the
Building Department. Once the application is approved and the backflow
requirements are determined by the Backflow Coordinator, the
contractor/plumber must pay the fees and the hydrant meter deposit. This is done
at the Iowa City Building Department, 410 E. Washington Street. At that time, an
appointment will be scheduled for the Backflow Coordinator to install the hydrant
equipment. When the backflow requirements have been met, the hydrant will be
turned on. When the project is completed, the contractor must call to schedule an
appointment with the Backflow Coordinator to remove the equipment. Billing
will be figured from the installation date to the actual removal date. Only
approved City personnel will operate the fire hydrant.
5. Damage to Water Division Property:
It will be the obligation of the applicant to protect the backflow device, valve,
hydrant and any other Water Division property from damage due to weather or
use of the facility. The repair of any damaged property will be completed by the
Water Division and charged to the applicant.
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6. Disqualification:
If the applicant fails to comply with these Guidelines For Hydrant Use, it will
be grounds for the applicant to be disqualified for future use of a hydrant.
Bulk Water Station
There is a bulk water station located at 1200 S. Riverside Drive to fill tank trucks. It is
opened 24 hrs a day. This system works on tokens that may be purchased from the
Transit Division on site or City Hall at 410 E. Washington Street. The cost is $.50 for
200 gallons of water.
The bulk water station is closed during winter months, depending on weather
conditions, usually from the beginning of October to the end of March.
(Revised 4/12/10)
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Attachment 1A
/
41
16
Attachment 1
17
__________________________________
_____________________________________ _________________________
________________.
Attachment 2
Tap Abandonment Agreement
SERVICE LINE AND TAP ABANDONMENT AGREEMENT
Date:
Name:
Address:
Owner/Agent of Owner of the property located at
Recently, the building at the above address was demolished. According to Sec.14-3C-3
of the Iowa City Code of Ordinances, all water service lines which are no longer in use
must be permanently closed off at the distribution water main at the expense of the
property owner. This must be done in accordance with the Iowa City Water Division
requirements and local Plumbing Code. This work shall be completed within one
calendar year from the date of abandonment, or by If not completed
in the required time, the City or its agent, after written notice to the owner, will complete
the work and bill the property owner.
If the existing water service line will be reused for a fuwre building, this must be done
within a year from the date listed above. If the water service line will not be used, when
the excavator is hired to permanently close off the water service, Water Division
personnel must inspect this work before the site is backfilled.
Please keep die Water Division informed of plans for this site.
Iowa City Water Division
410 B. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
319-356-5160
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_________________________________
_____________________________________________________
______________________________ ____________________,
Attachment 2A
One Year Tap Abandonment Agreement
ONE YEAR TAP ABANDONMENT AGREEMENT
To: Iowa City Water Division
From:
Mailing Address:
I, am Owner/Agent of Owner of the property
(name)
or properties lcnow as
(service address)
I understand it is the obligation of the Owner of the property to maintain water service
lines commencing with the City-owned water main in accordance with the Water
Division requirements and the Iowa City Code of Ordinances. I further understand it is
the obligation of the Owner of the property to cause a service line to be disconnected at
the City-owned main upon discontinuation of service through such service line. Service
to the above described property has been discontinued or retapped at my request.
Because I expect to reactivate the service no later than I hereby
request the Water Division to excuse me from disconnecting the service line at the main,
and in consideration of their approval for doing so, I agree that the service line will be
reactivated no later than the above date. Upon failure to do so, I authorize the Water
Division to disconnect such service line at the main and I agree to pay the reasonable
costs thereof
(owner) (date)
(address of owner) (prepared by)
(telephone number) (witnessed by)
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__________________________________
________________________________
Attachment 3
Private Service Location Waiver
IOWA CITY WATER DIVISION
PRIVATE WATER SERVICE LOCATIONS
WAIVER OF RESPONSIBILITY
The City of Iowa City Code of Ordinances states:
Section 14-3C-7: INFORMATION SUPPLIED TO PLUMBERS AND INTERESTED
PARTIES: Information which may be obtained from the records, maps and
employees of the Department of Public Works relative to the location of
distribution water mains and service lines will be furnished to licensed plumbers
and interested parties, but such information shall not be construed as a guarantee
of the accuracy of such records. (1978 Code f333-1 19; 1994 Code)
I, have read Section 14-3C-7 and understand that
the representative of the Department of Public Worlcs does not guarantee the location of
the private water service at -
The City of Iowa City is not responsible if the private water service line is damaged
during excavation of the site.
Signed Date
Company______________________________
Water Division Employee_______________________
Start tune End time
20
Attachment 4
Excavations made in Type C Soil
All simple slope excavations 20 feet or less in depth shall have a maximum allowable slope of! 1/2:1
I
7FTh11.
I
I
4'
Simple Slope
All excavations 20 feet or less in depth which have vertically sided lower portions shall be shielded
or supported to a height of at least 18 inches above the top of the vertical side. All such excavations
shall have a maximum allowable slope of 11/2:1
support or shield system
1
20' Max.
H
I
I rMkt
total height of vertical side
I
Maximum Allowable Slopes
Soil orRockType MaximumAllowableSlopes (WV) [1]
For Excavations Less Than 20 feet Deep [3J
Stable Rock
TypeA[2] 3/4
Type B
*Type C
1 V2
*Afl Soil in Iowa City is Considered Type C
• Numbers shown in parentheses next to maximum allowable slopes are angles expressed in
degrees from the horizontal. Angles have been rounded off.
• Sloping or benching for excavations greater than 20 feet deep shall be designed by a regis-
tered professional engineer.
21
Attachment 5
Meter Installation
o The center of meter ends must be a minimum of 5 inches
away from any wall, water heater, or any other object for proper
meter clearance. (See example #1)
o The stacking of water meters for apartment buildings, or
2nd meter for residential purposes must have a minimum clear-
ance of 8 inches between meter ends. (See example #2)
o All water meters must be plumbed horizontal, the meter
head must be straight up when placed in set.
o All water meteres must be visible for meter reading.
o Wires must be ran prior to "Final Meter Inspection."
0 Failure to follow any of these rules will result in not pass-
ing the "Final Meter Inspection." Corrections must be made, at
the owners expense, before we will attempt to inspect again.
We will be glad to answer any questions to help you!
Example #1
Example #2
I
lop view
side view
22
Attachment 6
Installation Of Single Purpose Watering Meter
(NOR)
Wiring
Two valves per meter
——-- Master Valve
/1
/
23
Hydrant Meter Application Form
Contractor__________________________Phone #____________________
Contact person_______________________Phone#____________________
Location, Start Date and Time_____________________________________
Completion Date and Time_______________________________________
Reason for hydrant connection_____________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Equipment to be used (i.e. garden hose, tanker, pump, pressure washer, etc.)____________
______________________________________________________________________________
Chemicals to be used____________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Backflow protection proposed_____________________________________
The contractor/applicant is responsible for any damage to the hydrant, meter or other City equipment.
Signature of applicant____________________________________________
OFFICE USE ONLY
Hydrant location________________________________________________
Water Department approval_______________________________________
Backflow protection needed_______________________________________
Building Department approval_____________________________________
Meter number________________Date in____________Read____________
Date out____________Read____________
Deposit and fees__________________Check #_______________________
24
Attachment 8
