Fire Hydrant Use Information

General Information

Permitted users are responsible for the following:

Any damage to the fire hydrant outside of normal usage

Having knowledgeable individual to operate the hydrant

Disconnect hoses from hydrant when not in use

Use an approved backflow preventer to eliminate any possibility of contamination of the water supply

The hydrant must be accessible for emergency service at all times

Contractors that may operate a Hydrant, shall confirm they viewed the training video and conducted proper training along with supplying the correct tool list to their on-site personnel.
https://sendvid.com/9dm313k2

For Hydrant use for Demolition, see the Demolition Water Clearance and Associated Fire Hydrant Use Permit section of the Permit webpage for additional information and to apply.

See the Fire Hydrant Use Only Permit section of the Permit webpage for additional information and to apply for a fire hydrant use permit for any other purpose than Demolition.

Fire Hydrant Use FAQ

What does this mean?

If customers need a water source for construction, demolition, and dust control or for similar purposes, DWSD recommends using a Temporary Water Connection, a water truck, or an on-site water storage tank. If these water sources are not available or are prohibited at your project site and you wish to use a fire hydrant as a temporary water source, you must first obtain a Fire Hydrant Use Permit from DWSD. This permit will authorize the applicant to operate a particular fire hydrant for the purpose of obtaining water on a temporary basis.

When to apply ?

DWSD recommends applying for a permit at least 2 weeks before the permit is required. For demolition work, apply for the hydrant permit when applying for a water clearance for demolition.

What documents needed to be submitted?

Submit a completed permit application for Temporary Use of a Fire Hydrant and site plan that shows the location of the hydrant via DWSD's online form linked on the Permit webpage.

If usage request and need has been established within a memorandum of understanding with DWSD, please submit a copy of the MoU with the applicable fees listed in the document.

What applications and fees are required?

Applicants must submit their application for a hydrant permit through DWSD's online form, linked on the Permit webpage.

Applicable Fees

Hydrant water use for Residential Demolition: $598.50*

Hydrant water use for Commercial Demolition: $2,388.68*

*Subject to change by DWSD Board of Water Commissioners

How long will it take?

It typically takes two to three business days for DWSD to process a hydrant use application. Applicant will receive a Fire Hydrant Temporary Use Permit that entitles the applicant to operate the hydrant for their use. The permit must be kept on site at all times while the fire hydrant is being used.

City of Detroit

Fire Hydrant Use Information

General Information

Fire Hydrant Use FAQ

Contacts City Directory