A. Application Required. Service connections to fire suppression systems and fire hydrants may be made only after application and approval by the utility. The utility may require a special contract before such connection will be made. Such connection will require application for a water permit on such forms as provided to the applicant by the utility and

payment of a water permit fee and new service connection charge. The utility will waive the plant investment fee for that portion of the connection provided exclusively for fire suppression; where the service line serves both general and fire service, the plant investment fee shall be based upon the general service line.

B. Changes Prohibited. The customer shall submit a new application and receive prior approval of the utility for any change, alteration or addition to the system or change in uses from those specified in the original application.

C. Size and Location. The utility shall approve the size and location of any connections made to its distribution mains for private fire protection service, and will, at the cost and expense of the customer, make the connection to its mains.

D. Usage. A private fire service connection is furnished for the sole purpose of supplying water for the extinguishment of fires, and the use of water from such a connection for any other purpose is absolutely forbidden, unless specifically authorized by the superintendent as a temporary service or special contract.

E. Fire Service Connection-Liability of Utility. The extent of the rights of the private fire protection service customer is to receive, but only at a time of fire on his premises, such supply of water as shall then be available. The utility shall not be considered in any manner as insurer of property or persons, or to have undertaken to extinguish fire or to protect any persons or property against loss or damage by fire or otherwise, and it shall be free and exempt from any and all claims for damages on account of any injury to property or persons by reason of fire, water, failure to supply water or pressure, or for any other cause whatsoever.

F. Water Source Outside Utility Prohibited. No pipe or fixtures connected with a private fire service served by the utility shall be connected with pipes or fixtures supplied with water from any other source.

G. Service Line.

1. Separate Line. Unless otherwise provided in a written agreement between the applicant and the utility, service lines for private fire protection service shall be distinct and separate from the regular or general water service line.

2. Combined Service Line. Where one service pipe is used for both general and fire purposes, the meter shall be installed to serve the general purpose water. The charge for general water service will be based on volume and service rates. The utility shall approve the meter size. The applicant shall pay all costs of installing such meter. The utility shall retain ownership of the meter. No adjustment will be made to the general water service billing based on meter usage even if fire flows were recorded during the billing period.

H. Construction, Maintenance and Testing.

1. The entire private fire service system on the customer’s premises shall be installed and maintained, including inspection and testing, by and at the expense of the customer and shall be subject to the approval of the utility before the service is made effective, and at such times thereafter as may be deemed necessary or appropriate by the utility.

2. Whenever a fire service system is to be tested, the customer shall notify the utility of such proposed test, designating the day and hour when same is to be made. The utility may be present during the test.

I. Tampering Prohibited. Hydrants and other fixtures connected with a private fire service system may be sealed by the utility and such seals may be broken only in case of fire or as specially permitted by the utility, and the customer shall immediately notify the utility of the breaking of any such seal.

J. Violation of Contract. Violation of the special contract or of these regulations shall allow the utility to void the contract and discontinue service, at its option. (Ord. 653 § 1(part), 2004)