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1. I am not sure what I really need for my project: can I call the District and set up a meeting?

Yes, the District's Engineering Services Coordinator is available and eager to meet with water service applicants. Please call the coordinator to schedule an appointment during normal business hours at 925-688-8014.

2. What is the difference between a walk-in service, a service agreement and a water main extension agreement?

A walk-in service is only for a single 1-inch water service from an existing water main. There is a fixed cost for the installation of a standard 1-inch water service line, plus the cost of a 5/8-inch, 3/4-inch, or 1-inch meter. District crews always install these.

A service agreement is for the installation of water services, fire hydrants and fire services where an existing water main is adjacent to a particular development. District crews always install these.

A water main extension agreement is required for any development that requires new water main facilities where none currently exist. Under this agreement, the installation of water mains, fire hydrants and new services is performed by the applicant's licensed contractor and is inspected by the District.

3. When is payment required for Service Agreements or Water Main Extension?

The Applicant shall pay all the District’s costs reasonably incurred in connection with the new facilities required by the District, including without limitation costs incurred in complying with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act; costs of acquisition of lands or easements; engineering, legal, and administrative expenses; costs of labor, materials, construction, inspection, and testing; and the District’s usual overhead charges.  Prior to final design and construction of the facilities, the Applicant shall deposit with the District the amount of the District’s estimated costs per the agreements. Construction drawings will not be released until the total estimated cost is deposited.  After the work is completed, if the District’s actual costs exceed the amount previously deposited, the Applicant will pay the deficiency to the District.  If the amounts deposited exceed the District’s actual costs, the excess will be refunded (refer toDistrict Regulation 5.28.060)

4. Will the District contact me during the design of my Service Agreement of Water Main Extension?

The Engineering Services Coordinator will contact you if we have any questions or problems during the service design. You can help the design process by promptly submitting all requested documents and providing the specific location and meter size of your new water service at the beginning of the project.

5. Once the design of my project is complete, whom should I contact for installation?

The Engineering Service Coordinator is the main contact for your entire project. The Engineering Service Coordinator will provide you with your contact person in Operations and Maintenance or the Construction Department who will coordinate actual installation.

6. Can the District suggest a meter size or fire service size?

No, the District cannot determine the meter size or fire service size required for your project. You should consult with your professional engineer or architect to determine your water requirements. The District's New Service Fees sheet lists common meter sizes with their typical flow range, and is a useful aid. The District will attempt to guide applicants if the requested meter appears too small or too large for the project. The smallest meter the District allows is the 5/8-inch meter, which can flow approximately 20 gallons per minute (gpm).