Potable Water Design Standards/Page 14 of 24/March 2023
Changes in pipe alignment may be accomplished using appropriate fittings or through pipe
deflection. Pipe deflection at the joint is allowed with ductile iron pipe and with specially
designed PVC pipes. (See Approved Material List). The deflection shall not exceed 75%
of the Manufacturer's recommended maximum joint deflection. No deflection at the joint is
allowed for PVC pipe unless allowed by the pipe manufacturer and does not exceed 75% of
the Manufacturer's recommended maximum joint deflection. If joint deflection is not
allowed, PVC pipe curvature shall be accomplished by installing appropriate bends. All pipes
shall be laid in trenches having a dry and stable bottom. Backfill shall be free of boulders and
debris. Pipe shall be fully supported along its entire length. Sharp or rocky material
encountered in the base shall be replaced with proper bedding. Pipe shall be laid on line and
grade as designed.
Fire hydrants shall be installed with the center of the pumper nozzle at 18" minimum to 24”
maximum above finished grade. Hydrants shall not be placed in sidewalks or traffic areas.
It will be the responsibility of the developer to move hydrants placed in an unacceptable
location and provide protection from traffic damage if necessary, upon the Department's
request. Concrete collars are required for hydrants in unpaved areas. Fire hydrants must be
ordered red in color. Fire hydrants must be clean and have a glossy red finish when accepted
by the utility. If painting is required all oil, grease, dirt, salts and other contaminants must be
removed. Two coats of approved paint to be applied by brush per manufacturer’s
specification for a DFT of at least 4 mils per coat.
All valves shall be placed according to plans unless relocation was been previously approved
by the Department prior to installation. Valves shall not be placed in curbs or gutters or in
designated parking spaces and shall be accessible at all times. As-built (record) drawings
shall reflect the actual location of all mains, hydrants, services, mechanically restrained pipe
and valves. All taps must be at least 18" from a fitting or bell. Potable Water mains shall not
be laid in fuel contaminated areas.
All road crossings, pavement cuttings and restoration shall be in accordance with the
requirements of the particular authority governing the area.
(b) Connection to Existing System:
All connections to existing Potable Water mains shall be made under the direct supervision
of the Department. Valves on existing Potable Water mains shall be operated by the
Department personnel or under direct supervision of the Department. The contractor shall
confirm the compliance of the existing facilities with the Standards and, modify the
facilities, if required, at no cost to the Department, prior to connection. Any modifications
to the existing facilities must be designed by the Project Engineer and with prior
Department approval. Tapping sleeve and valve shall be pressure tested using the test plug
on the tapping sleeve prior to tapping the water main. Insertion valves or temporary line
stops may be required in order to eliminate service interruptions. When installing an
insertion valve or line stop the existing water main must be restrained as a “dead end”
based Standard Detail 34W.