DISTRICT COUNCIL
Issue 2
Date: April 2019
Wat-11-01 / 140929106150 Page 2 of 3 Permit to use Fire Hydrant
April 2019
Private Bag 1005
RANGIORA 7440
New Zealand
0800 WMKGOV
Fax: (03) 313 4432
www.waimakariri.govt.nz
CONDITIONS RELATING TO THE USE OF A WAIMAKARIRI
DISTRICT COUNCIL FIRE HYDRANT
T
he right to gain access to and draw water from fire hydrants is restricted to:
(a) The Council and its authorised officers or agents;
(b) Fire service personnel;
(c) Fire hydrant permit holders during the period for which the permit has been issued.
It is an offence under the WDC Water Supply Bylaw to gain access to and draw water from fire hydrants
by any other person or agency. The Council may confiscate any equipment used by an offender to gain
access to or to draw water from a hydrant.
NOTE
All equipment must be provided by the applicant, including the fire hydrant standpipe with backflow
device, valve key and hoses. All hoses and fittings used must be in good condition. Any water wastage
reported from excessively leaking hoses and/or fittings may result in the cancellation of a permit.
CAUTION – DAMAGE TO WATER MAINS
Fire Hydrants must be turned on and off very slowly to prevent pressure surges developing in the
pipes (water hammer) which could cause the pipes to burst. Closing or opening time of two minute
(minimum is desirable.
The applicant shall be held responsible for the cost of repairing any damage caused by the
incorrect operation of a fire hydrant valve.
In the event that the fire hydrant fails to operate correctly or does not shut off drip tight, please
contact Waimakariri District Council on 0800 965 468 (24 hrs) immediately for repair.
C
AUTION - OTHER DAMAGE The applicant shall also be held responsible for any third party damage
that occurs whilst the fire hydrant is in use. In this regard (for example), the applicant should erect
suitable signs and barriers etc. to warn vehicles and pedestrians of the obstruction or danger
(hazard). The applicant shall obtain all necessary approvals for work within the carriageway including
the approval of an appropriate Traffic Management Plan (TMP).
C
AUTION – CONTAMINATION The applicant must ensure that no contamination to the water main can
occur while the hydrant is being used.
BACKFLOW
A ‘backflow prevention device’ shall be fitted to the fire hydrant standpipe and must be used when
filling bulk tanks/tankers.
The hydrant should be used in such a manner that no contaminant enters either the hose or the
hydrant. For example, hose ends should be kept out of any mud. All fittings must be sanitised. In any
situation where there is a high risk of contamination e.g. water pressure testing of the waste water
network, special procedures may be required. Filling hoses must be in good condition (no leaks).
CAUTION - DECLARATION A false declaration, grossly inaccurate water estimates, or other actions
which risk the safety and integrity of the public water supply system shall result in immediate
cancellation of this Permit and may result in prosecution.
CAUTION - TRAFFIC The applicant is responsible for assessing and managing the risk of injury from
traffic in the area surrounding the hydrant, and having the appropriate traffic management
controls in place.
