Fire Hydrant Meters

Temporary Services

Augusta Utilities may provide meters for temporary services, such as those utilized by contractors in the construction of new facilities, etc. According to Title 5, Chapter 2, Section 10, “if furnished in any case by Augusta-Richmond County, the cost of such meter shall be collected from the party using the same before the use of water is permitted. The care and repair of meters shall be at the expense of the parties using the same.”

Hydrant Meter and Hydrant Water Usage Policy

The new Hydrant Water Usage Policy was adopted and approved by the Augusta Commission on December 2, 2008. Fees are effective immediately and are non-refundable. Fees and guidelines will be strictly enforced for all users. Meters will be installed or picked up Monday-Friday during normal business hours (8:30 AM-5:00 PM) by appointment only. Please allow 24 hours for meter installation.

For the purpose of this policy, two categories of the hydrant usage have been defined: Stationary (non-movable) and Non-stationary (movable from one location to another).

Contracts and Applications

Persons desiring to establish a temporary water source will be required to apply for a Hydrant Use Permit. Applications are now accessible online, however in order for contracts to be valid it must be signed in the presence of an AUD agent.

Movable Hydrant Use Permit Application and Contract
Non-movable Hydrant Use Permit Application and Contract

Permit Period-Stationary (Non-Movable)

Each permit will allow for temporary metered water usage from a specific hydrant for up to 90 days at a non-refundable fee of $750. Permit may be extended for UP TO NINE (9) ADDITIONAL MONTHS at a non-refundable fee of $750. For one year hydrant meter use the cost is $1,500 non-refundable fee.

If customer needs water for only thirty (30) days or less, a $300 non-refundable fee will be required.

Permit Period-Non-Stationary (Movable)

Each permit for temporary metered water usage per vehicle or tanker will require a $1,500 non-refundable fee for the first year. If a second year is requested, an additional non-refundable fee of $750 will be required. If a meter is requested at the end of the two-year period, the meter must be returned to Augusta Utilities for maintenance and a new application must be filed. The fee structure will be the same as any other new applicant.

A copy of the permit decal must be displayed on the driver’s side window of each vehicle used and a copy must be attached to the fire hydrant used. Customers will be required to call in their monthly reading on or before the 1st of the month for billing purposes.

Relocation/Decal Transfer

If desired, a non-movable meter customer may request to have the meter/back-flow device/hose assembly relocated for a fee of $50. Under no circumstances should the non-movable hydrant customer move the meter at any time or in any way. Decals may be transferable to other tankers, etc. if sold or discarded, etc. for a $50 decal Transfer fee.

Penalties

Failure to comply with the terms of the contract and conditions of the policy in obtaining temporary water from an AUD owned fire hydrant may result in penalties for unauthorized hydrant usage or illegal connections as provided for in the Augusta, GA, ordinances up to, and including, monetary penalties of up to $1,000 per day, per incident.

For additional information for questions please contact the Administration Office at (706)312-4145.