Hydrant Use and Permit Fees- FAQ

What are these fees for?

Customers who need temporary water access from a fire hydrant must pay the following fees:

•    Permit Fee: A non-refundable charge for processing the application.
•    Security Deposit: A refundable fee to cover potential loss or damage to DC Water’s hydrant equipment.
•    Daily Rental Fee: A prepaid charge for the use of DC Water’s hydrant meter and backflow prevention equipment.

Why are these fees charged?

These fees help DC Water recover costs associated with purchasing, inspecting, and maintaining hydrant meters and backflow preventers, as well as enforcing hydrant use policies.

How do I apply for a fire hydrant use permit and obtain equipment?

For permits, click here

Equipment issuance and return are handled at:
      3900 Donaldson Place NW, Washington, DC 20016
      Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

I have more questions about the fire hydrant fees and permitting process.  

More information about current fee amounts can be found at dcwater.com/fees, and permits at dcwater.com/fire-hydrant-use-permit.

Contact the Compliance Program by phone (202) 364-3144 (M-F, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM) or through email at FHUP@dcwater.com

How much is the Hydrant Use and Permit Fee?

To see the current fees click here.

Upcoming Meeting

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2023

Monday 9:00 AM

Announcement

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DC Water Welcomes the Community Underground to See the Potomac River Tunnel and Christens Tunnel Boring Machine Emily

DC Water celebrated the christening of Emily today. It’s the second giant tunnel boring machine (TBM) that will help build the 5.5-mile Potomac River Tunnel. The celebration continued with Community Day. Residents and families met Emily and stepped inside the tunnel where she will soon begin digging.

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Upcoming Meeting
Date
September 22, 2026
Tuesday, 9:30 AM

Upcoming Events

Customer Service Center Announcement

Payment Plan Incentive: provides a credit back of 50% of the last 3 payments made. Eligible participants are residential customers who have had an outstanding balance for 60 days or greater and with an outstanding balance of $500 or more.