15.04.012 Fire Service.
A. Definitions.
1. “Private fire main” means the pipe and its appurtenances on private property: (a) downstream of the connection to the public water system to the base of the system riser for water-based fire protection systems solely for the use of providing water for fire protection systems; or (b) downstream of the connection to the public water system and inlets to foam-making systems solely for the use of providing water for fire protection systems.
2. “Public fire hydrant” means a fire hose connection device situated on public property or easement.
3. “Fire Department Connection” means that portion of the service piping provided with internal swivel fittings that the Fire Department connects hoses to for active fire fighting purposes.
B. Fire Hydrant Installation. All fire hydrants shall be installed and connected to the City’s water system on public property or within a City utility easement. Fire hydrants installed as part of private developments shall be provided with a utility easement conveyed to the City in a form and location as prescribed by the City Engineer. Location, type, and spacing of fire hydrants shall be in accordance with the current adopted edition of the International Fire Code and the City’s Engineering Standards.
C. Private Fire Hydrant – Maintenance Costs. Existing private fire hydrants constructed and installed before adoption of this code shall be maintained at the expense of the property owner. Replacement or repair due to wear or casualty loss shall also be at the expense of the property owner. The City reserves the right to require private fire hydrants be terminated and new water main and fire hydrants be constructed and installed within City utility easements as prescribed by the City Engineer where redevelopment or development of the property occurs.
D. Use of Fire Hydrants. Except for fire and emergency use, use of fire hydrants connected to the City water system requires a Hydrant Use Permit. Neither public nor private fire hydrants, except private hydrants on metered lines, shall be used without prior City approval except for fire and emergency use. Fees for use of fire hydrants shall be set forth by resolution of the City Council. Tampering with or unauthorized use of fire hydrants is a misdemeanor subject to the penalties set forth in SMC 15.04.160. (Ord. 1514, 1983; Ord. 1602, 1987; Ord. 1730, 1993; Ord. 1886, 1999; Ord. 2236, 2012)