Important
Permits are per vehicle
Non-potable use only
All permits expire Dec 31
What hydrants are used for
- Fire protection. Firefighting water supply. Hydrants must remain operable, inspected and unobstructed at all times.
- System maintenance. SCWA uses hydrants to flush mains and conduct fire flow tests for rating agencies, insurers and fire departments.
- Temporary water source. When no other source is reasonably available, approved users may draw water with a valid SCWA permit. See Obtaining a permit.
When it snows — Adopt a Hydrant
Clear snow and ice at least 4 feet around hydrants so firefighters can connect quickly in an emergency.
Obtaining a hydrant permit
Except for fire departments and SCWA, anyone using a fire hydrant must have a permit. This prevents contamination from backflow and ensures proper operation. SCWA inspects equipment, vehicles, certifications and registrations, and provides instructions before issuing permits. A separate permit is required for each vehicle.
Who can apply
Street cleaners / sweepers
Tree / pesticide sprayers
Landscapers
Paving contractors
Drainage contractors
Charitable / non-profit groups
Water transport*
*Water transport permit holders must submit daily number of fills and hydrant locations.
Rules, fees & term
- No substitute for water service. Permits will not be issued for a property in lieu of obtaining a water service.
- Non-potable use only. Water drawn from hydrants under permit is not for drinking.
- Vehicle inspection fee. Applicants requiring a vehicle inspection pay a per-vehicle inspection fee in addition to the permit fee.
- Permit term. All permits expire at the end of the calendar year of issue.
Proof of permit
SCWA issues a blue/white decal, a year-stamped hydrant ring and a written permit. Keep a copy of the permit in the vehicle. Present upon request to SCWA, Suffolk County Department of Health Services, NYS DEC, fire department, police or local code officials. Lists of permit holders/vehicles are provided to police for enforcement.
Penalties & enforcement
Non-compliance with operating provisions, procedures or rules constitutes a violation of Suffolk County Administrative Local Law #1-1984, Chapter 471 and may result in loss of permit and fines up to $2,000.
Report suspected misuse
Note vehicle make, model and license plate. Call SCWA Customer Service at (631) 698-9500.
Apply for a Hydrant Permit