[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Water Commissioners of
the Town of Hadley 5-11-2005. Amendments noted where applicable.]
These regulations are promulgated by the Town of Hadley Board
of Water Commissioners in accordance with MGL c. 41, § 69B.
The following regulations apply to all consumers of Town water
and govern the relations between the Water Division[1] and its consumers/customers and contractors/developers
who install water systems.
[1]
Editor's Note: Throughout this chapter, references to the
Water Department were amended to refer to the Water Division at time
of adoption of Code.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
The condition in which water service to a building has been
discontinued at the owner's request for a period of at least
one year and the owner has made no commitment as to possible future
use.
The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere
between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water
to a tank, plumbing fixture or other container and the flood rim of
said vessel. An approved air-gap shall be required by Division standards.
Any person applying for water service or for a water main
extension, replacement or relocation.
Any water supply on or available to the premises other than
the approved public potable water supply overseen by the Town.
The reversal of the normal flow of water or other liquids caused
by back pressure or backsiphonage.
The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures, or substances
into the distribution pipes of a potable water system from any source,
other than an approved supply source, caused by the sudden reduction
of pressure in the potable water system.
A device or means to prevent backflow.
Any structure used for human occupancy, employment, recreational
or other purposes.
Any existing service pipe that is used to provide both water
service and private fire protection service. New installation of combined
service is not permitted.
A single commercial or industrial unit, whether rented or
owned by the business or occupant, which has independent ingress and
egress or has common ingress and egress with other units within a
building or structure but with separate commercial or industrial facilities.
Example may include, but are not limited to, stored located in shopping
centers or separate office or condominium units within a single building
or structure.
The individual, firm, corporation or his or its agent as
the party who or which has applied for water service or any individual,
firm, or corporation who or which in fact uses the water service of
the Town of Hadley. The service will be recorded by the Water Division
in the name of the party requesting the service unless otherwise requested
in writing.
The amount of water used, as measured by a meter or as estimated
by the Water Division in accord with its billing.
An impairment of the quality of potable water to a degree
which creates an actual hazard to the public health through poisoning
or the spread of disease.
Any physical or potential connection or arrangement of piping
or fixtures between two separate piping systems, one of which contains
potable water and the other nonpotable water or industrial fluids
of unknown or questionable safety, or steam, gas or chemicals, allowing
flow from one system to the other.
Any physical or potential connection or arrangement of piping
or fixtures between two separate piping systems, one of which contains
potable water and the other nonpotable water or industrial fluids
of unknown or questionable safety, through which, or because of which,
backflow or backsiphonage may occur into the potable water system.
The installation of any approved backflow prevention device
at the water service connection to any premises or the installation
of an approved backflow prevention device on the service line leading
to and supplying a portion of a private water system where there are
actual or potential cross-connections which cannot be effectively
eliminated or controlled at the point of cross-connection.
A connection between a potable water system and nonpotable
water system with an approved backflow prevention device properly
installed that will continuously afford the protection commensurate
with the degree of hazard.
The part of the water system, usually located at or near
the owner's property line, where the Town has complete access
and control to shut off the water supply to the premises. Beyond this
point, the water system belongs to and is the responsibility of the
owner.[1]
Standards for design used by the Division for construction
and rehabilitation of public water mains, water service pipes and
fire pipes.
The cessation of water service at the premises at the request
of an owner or customer (except that a request for a temporary cessation
for repair does not ordinarily give rise to discontinuance).
An assembly of two independently operating approved check
valves with tightly closing shutoff valves on each side of the check
valves and properly located test cocks for the routine testing of
the assembly.
An acquired legal right for the specific use of land owned
and maintained by others.
The measurement of flow from a hydrant performed by the Water
Division or by a licensed testing company in accordance with generally
accepted engineering practices.
The private water piping, control valve and appurtenances
installed solely to furnish water for extinguishing fires.
A means for contractors to conduct a test to determine whether
a fire pump system is functioning properly as required by 310 CMR
22.22:13.08.
The term is derived from an evaluation of the potential risk
to public health and the adverse effect of the hazard upon the potable
water system.
Any conditions, device or practice in the water supply system
and its operation which could create or, in the judgment of the Division,
may create a danger to the health and well-being of the water user.
A plumbing-type cross-connection in a private potable water
system that has not been properly protected by a vacuum breaker, air-gap
separation or backflow prevention device. Unprotected plumbing-type
cross-connections are considered to be a health hazard.
An actual or potential threat to the physical properties
of the water system or to the potability of the public water supply
or the consumers which would constitute a nuisance or be aesthetically
objectionable or could cause damage to the system or its appurtenances
but would not be dangerous to health.[2]
A device connected to a public water main for the purpose
of extinguishing fires or other authorized purpose.
A written permit granted by the Water Division for the temporary
use of a hydrant.
Any system containing a fluid or solution which may be chemically,
biologically, or otherwise contaminated or polluted in a form or concentration
such as would constitute a health, pollution, or plumbing hazard if
introduced into an approved water supply.
The opening of a control valve to initiate or restore water
service.
An individual licensed by the Town to perform installation
and maintenance of water services.
A leak in the owner's portion of a water service pipe.
Written notification to an owner or customer that a leak
exists in the water service pipe on the owner's property and
that the owner is responsible for repairing the leak.
The supply pipe laid in the street from which (structure)
service connections are made.
A meter used for billing purposes serving a building or group
of buildings.
An instrument for measuring the flow of water.
An underground vault enclosing a meter.
Water which is not safe for human consumption or which is
of questionable quality.
A person who, alone or jointly or severally with others, has
the legal title to any premises or has care, charge or control of
any premises as agent, executor, administrator, trustee, lessee or
guardian of the state of the holder of legal title.
The person or persons who own, maintain and control a private
water system.
Also, any person maintaining a cross-connection or owning or
occupying premises on which a cross-connection can or does exist.
Any individual, firm, company, partnership, association,
society, corporation, group or any political subdivision of the commonwealth.
A person licensed as a plumber by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
A purported water treatment device applied to the drinking
water entering any building for the purpose of reducing contaminants
in the drinking water entering that building.
The presence of any foreign substance (organic, inorganic
or biological) in water which tends to degrade the water quality so
as to constitute a hazard or to impair the usefulness or quality of
the water to a degree which does not create an actual hazard to the
public health but which does adversely and unreasonably affect such
waters for domestic use.
Water fit for human consumption in conformance with the regulations
of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.
A device containing one or two independently operating loaded
check valves and an independently operating loaded air inlet valve
located on the discharge side of the check valves.
Private water mains, hydrants and appurtenances installed
for the purpose of fire protection at a particular premises.
The public water mains, hydrants and appurtenances installed
for the purpose of fire protection in a public way, Town-owned easement
or private way open to public travel.[3]
The piping and associated valves, hydrants and appurtenances
installed in a public way, Town-owned easement, or private way open
to public travel for the purpose of supplying water to one or more
customers or for public fire protection.[4]
An assembly of two independently operating check valves with
an automatically operating differential relief valve between the two
check valves, tightly closing shutoff valves on either side of the
check valves, and properly located test cocks for the routine testing
of the device.
A single unit providing complete, independent living facilities
for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living,
sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
A meter two inches in size or smaller used to measure the
flow of water to a predominantly residential property.
The pipe running from the main in the street to include a
curb stop and curb box at or near the property line, a shutoff valve,
meter and meter connection, usually inside the structure.
The closing of a control valve to temporarily stop water
service or to terminate water service.
The cessation of water service pursuant to the Water Division's
billing, termination and appeal regulations or for violation of these
regulations.
Any person who obtains water from a public water main or
private water main supplied by a public water main.
The readiness to supply or actual supplying of water to premises
in which a water service pipe or fire pipe has been installed. "Water
service" may also mean a water service pipe.
The providing of water to customers, whether or not through
an individual meter, as well as fire protection charges for structures,
buildings, or units within a six-hundred-foot radius of a hydrant.
The connection, piping and associated valves and appurtenances
that extend from a public water main to a building or property for
the purpose of supplying water.
The water system shall be considered as made up of two parts,
the utility system and the private system:
The utility system shall consist of the source facilities and
the distribution system; it shall include all those components of
the water system under the complete control of the Division, up to
the curb stop where the private system begins.
The source facilities shall include all components of the water
system utilized in the production, treatment, storage and delivery
of water to the distribution system.
The distribution system shall include the network of conduits
used for the delivery of water from the source facility to the customer's
system, generally terminating at the curb stop located at the property
line.
The private system shall include those parts of the facilities
beyond the curb stop through which the public potable water is delivered
to points of use.
Any water supplied by the Division or any other water system
to a consumer's water system after it has passed through the
point of delivery and is no longer under the sanitary control of the
water purveyor.
Water service is defined as a tie-in to an existing main line.
A.
All applications for introduction of Town water to private premises
or for a change in use of a building to human habitation will be made
at the office of the Water Division by the owner of the property or
by the person to be charged therefor or by his authorized agent. Applications
can be received throughout the year. Due to limited water reserve,
permit approval of such water applications will be dependent upon
having sufficient reserves.
B.
All new water service or changes in use of a building to human habitation, whether to new construction or to existing structures, will be required to have a water meter installed, such water meters to meet all the requirements as set forth in § 425-15, Meters. Under this subsection, each building used for human habitation will be required to have its own water meter.
C.
No water permit will be issued until a complete and valid building
permit application has been submitted, with complete plans, to the
Building Inspector. The fee for connection charges must be paid prior
to issuance of a building permit.
D.
Application for a water line extension shall include a fee of $3 per foot for eight inches and $5 per foot for 12 inches or larger on Town-accepted ways and in new subdivisions, including common driveways that will require either an eight-inch or larger service (see § 425-19).[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code.
E.
Approved permits will only be good for six months from date signed
by the Water Superintendent on the application.
F.
In the case of a commercial application, the Town will require an
engineer's calculations of use to accompany the application,
to ensure that the requested gallons per day (gpd) are appropriate,
except for services of one inch or less, in which case the applicant
must provide a true estimate of daily use.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code.
Owners of the property where water is used will be charged with,
and held responsible for, all water passing through their service
pipe until such time as they notify the Water Division at its office
in the Town Hall in writing that they no longer desire the use of
water, and, in case of the sale of the property, such notice will
give the name of the new owner, if available.
No person will tamper with a water meter or accouterments and no alterations will be made in any of the pipes and fixtures without written authorization of the Water Superintendent. Violators will be subject to a fine as set forth in § 425-19. Owners of property desiring any unusual construction, alterations or attachments connected with the water supply must submit plans and specifications for the same to the Superintendent for his inspection and approval or disapproval and for his determination as to whether the same are permissible. The Superintendent will determine the terms, charges, and conditions under which their use will be allowed.
The Town and its agents will have free access at all times to the premises supplied with water service to ascertain the quantity of water used and the manner of its use and to inspect pipes and fittings. When such access has been refused, the water service may be terminated after proper notification in accordance with § 425-16W.
Whenever a fire occurs in the Town, as far as practicable, it
is the duty of consumers to discontinue all use of water for the duration
of the fire.
The Town does not guarantee constant pressure nor uninterrupted
service, nor does it assure the consumer either a full volume of water
or the required pressure necessary to effectively operate hydraulic
elevators, sprinkler systems or other appliances, the same being subject
to all variable conditions that may take place in the use of water
from the Town mains.
A.
No liability
for interruption of service. No consumer will be entitled to damages,
or to have payment refunded, for any interruption of supply occasioned
either by accident to any portion of the works, or by shutting off
for the purpose of additions or repairs to the works, or by the stoppage
or shortage of supply due to causes beyond the control of the Division,
such as excessive drought, excessive use of and waste of water by
other consumers, or by leaks or defects in the pipes or appliances
owned by him or other consumers or any other cause.
B.
No liability
for dirty water. The Town will not be responsible for damages caused
by dirty water resulting from the opening or closing of any gate,
the use of any hydrant, or the breaking of any pipe, or pipeline flushing
or any other cause.
C.
No liability
for consumer's pipes. The Town assumes no liability for conditions
which exist in consumers' pipes and cause damage coincident to or
following the repairs or flushing of any main pipe, service pipe,
meter or other appliance belonging to the Water Division or any other
cause.
D.
No liability
for collapsed boilers. The Division reserves the right at any time,
without notice, to shut off the water in the mains for purposes of
making repairs, extensions or for other necessary purposes. Persons
having boilers or other appliances on their premises depending on
the pressure in the pipe to keep them supplied with water are hereby
cautioned against danger from these sources and are required to provide,
at their own expense, suitable safety appliances to protect themselves
against such danger. In any event, it is expressly stipulated that
the Division will not be liable for any damage resulting from water
service being interrupted, either through accident or necessity or
any other cause.
E.
No liability
for shutting off water without notice. When it becomes necessary to
shut off the water into any section of the Town because of an accident
or for the purpose of making changes or repairs, the Division will,
so far as practicable, use its best efforts to notify consumers and
prevent inconvenience and/or damage arising from such cause. However,
the Town assumes no liability for failure to notify consumers of service
interruption.
No person shall connect a source of water from any source to
any pipe connected to the Town water system. Private water systems
are not to be cross-connected to the Town water system.
Pools shall not be filled during periods of high water demand
and low supply (i.e., after June 1). Filling may be restricted to
low demand periods of the day. The consumer shall be responsible for
ensuring that no leaks or overfilling occurs.
Any violations of these regulations may result in the Superintendent ordering the termination of water service to the violator's premises in accordance with § 425-16W. When water has been terminated for violation of the rules, or other offense, it will not be turned on again until the Division is satisfied that there will not be any further cause of complaint and charges shown in § 425-19 have been paid to cover the cost of shutting off and turning on the water as well as charges up to the date of the termination.
A.
Date of consumer's liability to pay. A minimum charge will be assessed for water service from the date the water is turned on, whether the water is used or not (see § 425-19).
B.
Collections of miscellaneous water charges. All bills for labor or
material on consumers' property and charges for shutting off or turning
on water will be subject to the same conditions as bills for water.
C.
Request for duplicate bills. Any consumer or other party who wishes
to receive duplicates of bills may do so after paying such charges
as necessary to defray the cost of printing or copying, handling and
postage.
D.
Bills are a public record. Water and sewer bills are a public record
and as such are subject to disclosure. Any consumer who can show cause
to the Select Board why a bill should not be disclosed to the public
may have their bill withheld from public viewing, subject to concurrence
by the District Attorney.
E.
Charge for turning on or turning off water. Charges will be made for turning on or shutting off water (see § 425-19).
F.
Discontinued service for nonpayment of bills. Any consumer who fails
to pay his bill within the period due is subject to a discontinuation
of water service, and service will not be reestablished until all
service charges, penalties and charges for turnoff and turn-on are
paid in full or arrangements are made to pay the full amount. Prior
to discontinuation of service, notice will be sent by certified mail
to the consumer at the address billed. Failure of the consumer to
receive the notice shall not relieve the Town of the right to discontinue
service.
G.
Claims for adjustments on bills. All claims for adjustments of water
bills must be made within 60 days in the case of semiannual bills
and within 30 days on quarterly bills. Any undisputed portion of a
bill must be paid by the due date or a late charge will be assessed.
H.
When meter is out of order. If a meter becomes out of order or fails
to register, the consumer will be charged at the average daily consumption
as shown by the meter when in working condition for the corresponding
period of two preceding years, or for the period the meter has been
in service if less than two years. If the property owner fails to
respond to correspondence to inspect and repair the failed meter within
45 days, a fee of $50 will be assessed on all subsequent billings
until such time as the Water Division is contacted and allowed access
to repair the meter.
[Amended 11-7-2019 STM by Art. 14]
I.
No right to furnish water to other premises. A consumer or customer
of water may use it for any and all purposes on his own premises but
will not be permitted to supply water to the premises occupied by
another person, except in special emergencies, and then only with
the approval of the Water Division. A consumer may not sell water
without express written approval of the Water Commissioners. There
will be no commercial bottling of water from the Hadley system.
J.
Water from nonmetered source (hydrants, standpipes, etc.). All water
supplied by the Water Division for any purpose will be measured by
a meter as provided for in these regulations.
A.
Installation. Only meters and accouterments, including outside meter
readers, approved by the Water Superintendent will be installed. An
inventory of meters by serial number and where each is located will
be kept current at all times by the Collector's office, 584-4246.
All water meters shall meet Water Division specifications to enable
remote readings by February 1, 2020. All current property owners who
are currently not in compliance shall have 60 days after DPW notification
to schedule the upgrade with the Water Division. Property owners who
do not comply will be assessed a meter reading fee of $50 at each
billing period.
[Amended 11-7-2019 STM by Art. 14[1]]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code.
B.
Valves and locking devices. A shutoff valve at meter inlet will be
the first fitting inside a service building and will be a flared or
compression-type connection. An approved stop valve will be installed
near the outlet of the meter by the consumer, at his expense, to permit
removal of the meter without backflow from the building pipes. All
meters will have locking devices.
C.
Consumers to pay for meter repairs. Costs of repairs or damages to
meters due to negligence on the part of the consumer, such as from
freezing, hot water, or external causes, will be charged to the consumer
and, if unpaid, become a lien against the premises.
D.
Meter size. The size, type and kind of water meter required for any
given service will be approved by the Water Division.
E.
Meters not to be removed. All meters will be installed and maintained
by the customer/consumer under Water Division supervision and will
not be removed except with written approval of the Water Superintendent.
Any customer/consumer removing, bypassing, or tampering with a water
meter, including removal of meter head, will be charged three times
the estimated water usage for the period of time of the current billing
cycle that the meter was tampered with. Any unmetered line will also
be charged three times the estimated water use for the period of time
that this service was unmetered.
F.
Payment for meter pits. Installation of meter pits will be done by
private contractor at the consumer's expense.
G.
Town's right to change meters. If, in the opinion of the Water
Superintendent, a meter does not comply with the conditions of the
service installation, the Water Division has the right to change or
replace such meter. Such change shall be made in accordance with current
regulations and will be paid for by the consumer.
H.
Check valve. If, in the opinion of the Water Superintendent, the
installation of an approved check valve on the property side of a
meter of any consumer is considered necessary for the safety of the
water system, such approved check valve will be immediately installed
at the expense of the consumer after due notice in writing has been
given to the consumer by said Water Division.
I.
Auxiliary meters. Where the supply of water through a service is
covered by a single meter, the Division will read and maintain this
meter. If additional or auxiliary meters are wanted for showing subdivisions
of such supply, they may be furnished and installed by the consumer,
at the expense of the consumer, who must assume all responsibility
of reading and maintaining the same unless other arrangements are
approved in advance by the Water Superintendent.
J.
Repairing meters. The Water Division will have the right to remove,
repair, or replace any meter at any time it sees fit. All meter installations
on services which cannot be shut off for meter repairs will be equipped
with a metered bypass at the expense of the consumer.
K.
Access to the meter and outside reader. It will be the duty of all
consumers to see that meters and outside readers on service connections
wherever located are readily accessible at all times to the Water
Division. Failure to remove any obstruction which prevents access
to the meter or reader within three days after being notified by the
Water Division will result in shutoff of water to the premises, after
proper notification. Water will not be turned on until all obstructions
are removed and all regulations complied with and all charges for
shutting off and turning on the water are paid.
L.
Testing meters by request. The accuracy of the meter on any premises will be tested by the Water Division upon written request of the owner, who will pay in advance a fee (see § 425-19) to cover the cost of the test. If in such a test the meter is found to register over 2% more water than actually passes through it, the meter will be repaired or replaced and the fee will be refunded and the water bill for the current period will be adjusted in accordance with the result of the test. If, however, it appears that the person was charged or has paid for less water than he should have been charged or should have paid for, he will be charged with the proper additional amount and must pay the same, together with the expense of the examination and test, to the Town. The Water Superintendent may waive the fee and costs for the first meter calibration check during any two-year period.
A.
Water waste. Consumers must keep their water pipes and fixtures in
good repair and protected from frost at their own expense, and they
will be held responsible for any damage to Town property resulting
from their failure to do so. They will prevent the waste of water.
All new and replacement plumbing fixtures shall be water-saving devices.
B.
All service pipes to be inspected. All new service pipes from the
road to the curb box must be inspected by the Water Division before
covering the trench. All pipe and trench must meet the approval of
the Water Division.
C.
Installation of service pipe under supervision of the Water Division.
(1)
All new service connections will be made under the supervision of the Water Division. Consumer will be charged current rate for tapping as listed in § 425-19. The line from the street to the curb box is the responsibility of the Water Division and the remainder is the responsibility of the owner of the premises. The owner's failure to maintain the service lead may result in discontinuance of service.
(2)
On private streets, water mains shall extend to the last lot or property
line or as otherwise determined by the Water Superintendent. The proper
utility easements shall be prepared to the satisfaction of the Town
and filed before construction begins.
(3)
When required by the Water Division, connections to the existing
system will be made under pressure using tapping sleeves and tapping
valves.
D.
Right to repair service pipes. All service pipes between the street
line and the curb box will be repaired or relaid, when necessary,
by the Water Division. The pipe length between the curb box and the
cellar wall may be repaired or relaid by a contractor or licensed
plumber at the expense of the owner of the premises when it is deemed
necessary for the protection of the water supply or the giving of
satisfactory water service. Written notice will be given to correct
the problem unless, in the opinion of the Water Superintendent, an
emergency exists because of a public health hazard or the integrity
of the Town's water supply is in jeopardy.
E.
Temporary service from adjacent premises. When permission to open
a permanently paved street or to bore under a street is refused by
the Select Board, or for any physical reason it is impossible to open
a street, and the applicant requests that water be furnished temporarily
from an adjacent service, the same may be done at the expense of the
consumer if approved by the Water Superintendent.
F.
Extra-large or special service pipe. Any consumer requiring, because
of special conditions in connection with his use of water, a service
pipe between the main and the street line which is of a different
type or larger than 3/4 inch, the service pipe may be installed only
with prior approval of the Superintendent and at the expense of the
consumer.
G.
Charges for repairs. The pipe from the main to the building is the
property of the consumer, and all repairs to the same must be made
at his expense.
H.
Material on private premises. All fittings supplied by the Water
Division to the consumer will be billed to the consumer.
I.
Irregular service. Services for other than permanent structures or
which are used only a part of the year may, at the option of the Water
Superintendent, be installed by private contractor at the expense
of the consumer. Owners of seasonal property are responsible for either
requesting that water service be turned off or providing adequate
heating of water pipes and flow to prevent freezing.
J.
One service to each premises. Only one service connection will be
made to each dwelling unit located in a building or to each commercial
or industrial building.
K.
Requests for turning on or shutting off water.
(1)
Requests for turning on or shutting off a water service will be made in writing, or by calling the Water Division, 24 hours in advance except in the case of emergency. A charge set forth in § 425-19 will be made for each such service. Water Division personnel only will open or close curb box valves.
(2)
Requests for turning on or shutting off water during other than normal
working hours, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, will
be billed at the overtime labor rate.
L.
Requests for special meter reading by the Water Division.
(1)
Requests for a special meter reading, e.g., closings of real estate transactions, etc., will be made in writing, or by calling the Water Division, at least 24 hours in advance of the day when meter is to be read, except in the case of emergency. A charge set forth in § 425-19 will be made for each such special meter reading. This charge is in addition to the billing for the water used.
(2)
Reading of a meter for closings, etc., without charge may be done
by the consumer, firm, corporation or his or its agent and the meter
reading given to the Collector's office, 584-4246. A calculation
of the cost of the water used since the last billing period will be
provided by the Water Clerk.
M.
No pipes furnished in winter. No digging for installation of mains
or services will be allowed during the period from November 15 to
April 1, except in such cases deemed emergencies.
N.
Services off mains only. Installation of services beyond the end
of an existing water main will not be allowed. The main must be extended
(including necessary hydrants and appurtenances) to the furthest limit
of the applicant's property. Water mains will be looped when
required by the Superintendent or Water Commissioners. Fire hydrants
will be not more than 500 feet apart and main line valves will not
be more than 1,000 feet apart.
O.
Service pipe trenches. Service pipes will not be placed within 10
feet of other utilities except under special conditions and with the
approval of the Water Superintendent. The Water Division will not
be responsible for damage to other utilities laid within 10 feet of
a water service pipe. Before backfilling the water service pipe trench,
an inspection by the Water Division will be required of the water
service line from the curb box to the proposed water meter location.
P.
Standby fire protection. The Water Division will furnish water for standby fire protection service in accordance with rates and charges specified in § 425-19. All equipment for this purpose shall be installed entirely at the expense of the consumer and with the approval of the Water Division and in accordance with state and local regulations. Such pipes must not be used for the supplying of water for any other purposes and must be so arranged that easy inspection can be made by the Water Division. Whenever it is considered necessary for the protection of the water supply, and in the interest of the Town of Hadley, the Water Division will have the right to require the installation of meters, alarms, or other accessories, the installation and upkeep of such equipment to be at the consumer's expense.
Q.
Testing fire system. No water will be taken or used through private
fire systems for the purpose of testing, unless the Water Division
issues written permission. Tests must be conducted under supervision
of the Water Division.
R.
Right to restrict the use of water. The Board of Water Commissioners
has the right to restrict the use of water during dry seasons or under
any other emergency conditions, although compliance with applicable
state and Department of Environmental Protection statutes and regulating
provisions will be required. Violations of water restrictions may
include fines, in accordance with these regulations. The Water Division
may, after proper notice in accordance with these regulations, shut
off water service to consumers who have violated water restrictions
three times in any twenty-eight-calendar-day period.
S.
Use of fire hydrants. The use of fire hydrants, Town and private,
is restricted to members of the Fire Department of the Town of Hadley
and to employees of the Water Division. Other persons may use the
fire hydrants only with the specific permission of the Water Superintendent.
Unauthorized use of a fire hydrant may result in a fine being levied
against the perpetrator.
T.
Cross-connections. No other source of water shall be connected to
any pipe connected to the Town water system. A fine of $25 per day
for each violation will be levied and water service will be discontinued,
without advance notice, until the cross-connection is eliminated.
U.
Treatment. No treatment will be added to water supplied by the Town,
unless it can be positively determined, by means of check valves or
otherwise as accepted by the Water Superintendent, that the treatment
will not affect the water system. Violations are subject to a fine
of $50 established by the Board of Water Commissioners for the individual
offenses.
V.
Abandoned buildings. In the event that a building is determined to be abandoned by the Town, the Water Division may terminate service after making reasonable attempts to contact the property owner. Charges will be made for shutting off the water (see § 425-19).
W.
Termination of service. Service may be terminated to any consumer
for reasons stipulated in these regulations. Prior to termination,
notice will be delivered to the service location and sent to the consumer
by certified mail stating the reason for termination, the termination
date, and required actions and procedures to respond. The termination
date shall be no sooner than seven calendar days from the mailing
date of the notice. Fees will be charged for shutting off service.
The conditions of this section do not apply to emergency situations
or other situations where it is determined by the Water Superintendent
that immediate termination is necessary to protect the water supply
or public safety.
X.
No cross-country access to Town water. There shall be no cross-country
access to Town water. Water distribution line and service lines may
not cross property bounds to serve lots or property not otherwise
located on a way with Town water.
A.
A minimum performance bond of $5,000 for Town ways is required from
each contractor for all work performed in public way or ways intended
for future ways, at the determination of the Water Superintendent.
An independent field construction observer may be hired by the Water
Division to be paid by the developer to ensure installation is in
compliance with rules and regulations of the state and Town of Hadley.
B.
Pipe.
(1)
All pipe will be ductile iron pipe only. The thickness class shall
be 52 for ductile iron. All pipes and fittings will have a seal coat
applied both inside and outside and conform to AWWA C104. Push-on
or mechanical joints are permitted. Leaded joints are prohibited.
(2)
Before lying of pipe, all pipe will be inspected and no broken or
cracked pipe will be placed in the pipeline. Before being laid in
the trench, each pipe will be carefully cleaned throughout. Open ends
of the pipe will be plugged or otherwise effectively closed during
the work and before leaving the work site each night or at any other
time when the work is closed down.
(3)
No supply main less than eight inches inside diameter will be installed.
The actual size of pipe to be used in any location will be approved
by the Water Superintendent in every case.
(4)
No pipe will be laid on Sunday or on holidays except by special permit.
The cost of the inspector's time shall be borne by the developer
and/or owner.
C.
Valves.
(1)
Gate valves will be iron bodied, nonrising stem, bronze mounted,
resilient wedge, with two-inch operating nut and mechanical joint
hubs. All valves shall be provided with O-ring seal and all valves
will open left.
(2)
The wedge will be constructed of ductile iron fully encapsulated
in synthetic rubber except for guide and wedge nut areas.
(3)
The wedge rubber will be molded in place and bonded to the ductile
iron portion. It will not be mechanically attached with screws, rivets
or similar fasteners.
(4)
The wedge will seat against seating surfaces arranged symmetrically
about the center line of the operating stem, so that seating is equally
effective regardless of direction of pressure unbalance across the
wedge.
(5)
The stem will be seated by at least two O-rings; all stem seals will
be replaceable with valve wide open and while subjected to full-rate
pressure.
(6)
The waterway will be smooth and will have no depressions or cavities
in the seat area where foreign material can lodge and prevent closure
or opening.
(7)
The valve body and bonnet will be fusion bonded epoxy coated, inside
and out, with a minimum epoxy surface of eight mils thick.
(8)
The valve will have a minimum working pressure of 200 psi.
(9)
The valve will have a five-year money back warranty.
D.
Hydrants.
(1)
Hydrant protection/access. An minimum space of at least 10 feet in
any direction is required between fire hydrants and buildings, trees,
fences, bushes/shrubs or anything that would not allow the Fire Department
or Water Division to gain access to the hydrant.
(2)
Hydrant type and models will be approved by the Water Superintendent.
Hydrant will conform in design and manufacture to the latest issue
of AWWA Standard C502, Standard for Fire Hydrants. Hydrants will be
manufacturer's best quality and design.
(3)
Hydrants will be compression type, i.e., the main valve is to open
against and close with the water pressure. The downward travel of
the main rod and valve assembly to the full open position will be
controlled by a travel stop device located on the upper stem section
of the rod and will be removed from the waterway. The use of cast-iron
stops or pedestals in the hydrant elbow against which the bottom valve
plate must be impacted to arrest the downward travel will not be accepted.
The drain mechanism will be an integral part of the valve assembly.
All internal parts will be removable through the top of the hydrant
when the bonnet has been removed. Hydrants will also comply with the
following requirements:
(a)
Main valve opening: six inches minimum.
(b)
Number of outlets: two hose connections of 2 1/2 inches and
one pumper nozzle of 4 1/2 inches.
(c)
Operating nut size: pentagon 1 1/2 inches point to flat.
(d)
Thread type: national standard.
(e)
Shoe: six-inch mechanical joint (H-S, L-A steel bolts).
(f)
Direction of opening: counterclockwise (CCW).
(g)
Bury length: five feet six inches.
(h)
Height (bury line operating nut): 28 3/4 inches minimum.
(i)
Subseal material: bronze.
(j)
Model: traffic (breakaway design) - Smith Met or comparable.
(k)
Color: red, body; silver, bonnet and caps.
(l)
All new hydrants installed in Hadley, both public and private,
shall contain a four-inch hydrant Storz at the steamer connection.
(m)
Any hydrant that does not comply with all the above specifications
will not be allowed.
E.
Meters.
(1)
All meters will conform to, or exceed, the appropriate sections of
AWWA Standard C700.
(2)
Affidavits of compliance with AWWA standards and certificates of
testing for accuracy and capacity will be required.
(3)
The meters will be magnetically driven.
(4)
Meters of 3/4 inch and one inch in size will be frost proof type
equipped with plastic liner. Larger sizes will be bronze split case
type.
(5)
Remote reading system will be Neptune ARB T10 with radio reading
system.
(6)
Registers will be straight reading in cubic feet.
(7)
Serial number will be imprinted on the case.
(8)
All interior trim will be of stainless steel.
(9)
Meters 3/4 inch and one inch in size will be equipped with SP chambers
and disc-type measuring element.
(10)
Meters over one inch will have flanged ends.
F.
Corporations will be 3/4 inch or one inch, "Red Hed" brass, or approved
equal, tapered thread.
G.
Curb stops will be left open with a stop 3/4 inch, "Red Hed" brass,
compression ball valve, or equivalent. Curb boxes will be "Buffalo
95E" or Erie type with sliding top extension and will be set to finish
grade.
H.
Ledge. All ledge will be removed to a width two feet greater than
the diameter of the pipe and one foot below the underside of the pipe.
A twelve-inch bed of sand will be placed in the trench prior to laying
pipe.
I.
Survey markers. Survey markers (line and grade) will be required
on all newly proposed streets. Pipes will be laid within the roadway
layout (or easement in certain cases) as shown on plans approved by
the Town of Hadley Planning Board. Service pipe shall extend to the
property line. All curb boxes must be visible.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code.
J.
Excavation within the limits of public ways. Any excavation in Town-accepted
streets will be in strict compliance with existing bylaws for protection
of the paved portion of a street or a tree belt. A right to open a
public way permit will also be required. When digging across a street,
an open trench permit will be required.
K.
Service pipes. Each individual unit must have its own separate service
consisting of a corporation cock, curb stop, curb box, a quarter turn
ball valve before and after the meter, copper meter setter, meter
and remote register. The service pipe will be at least 3/4 inch, Type
K copper, in accordance with AWWA C800-6. All curb boxes will be set
to grade. All service pipes will be Type K copper. No sweat fittings
will be allowed between the street main and meter regardless of the
meter location. Where service length is 100 feet or greater, the size
of the service pipe will be subject to approval by the Water Superintendent
or his authorized agent.
L.
Testing.
(1)
Before acceptance by the Hadley Water Division, the pipe will be
pressure tested and disinfected in accordance with AWWA C600. No one
will pressure test or chlorinate without at least 48 hours' prior
notification to the Water Superintendent. An employee of the Hadley
Water Division must be present for the duration of pressure test and
chlorination and must sign and witness test results. Test results
must be presented to the Water Superintendent for approval.
(2)
Joints will be left exposed until after the pressure test has been
completed satisfactorily. Minimum test pressure is 150 psi for two
hours.
(3)
The results of the sterilization on the water pipes is to be approved
and attested to in writing by a state-approved laboratory. The water
for sterilizing and flushing will be furnished by the Town.
M.
Cover over pipe. Pipe will not have less than five feet of cover
but not more than six feet measured to finish grade of the street.
Pipe will be hand covered one foot with sand or stone-free gravel
and compacted and tamped around pipe to give good support and protection
for pipe. In case of any excavations in swamp or when silt is encountered,
the contractor will be required to replace the same with good material
to provide proper support and alignment of the pipeline. In some cases,
the contractor will use crushed stone for a good bedding. Trench backfill
will be suitable material taken from the excavation, approved common
borrow or gravel hauled in. No mud, frozen earth, stones larger than
eight inches, or other objectionable material is to be used for refiling.
N.
Project location; plans to be submitted. All applications for land
development that will require water service shall be reviewed by the
Water Division. The Water Division should be contacted prior to submission
of applications for any development. Plans shall be submitted as soon
as possible, but in no case sooner than 21 calendar days prior to
the commencement of construction activity. The applicant shall submit
two sets of plans, which shall include the following information:[2]
(1)
Vicinity sketch. The location of the project site in relation to
the surrounding public street system shown at a scale of one inch
equals 400 feet. The delineated Zone II boundaries for all public
water supplies within Hadley shall be shown.
(2)
Project name, name and seal of professional who prepared plans, legend,
date, scale (use one inch equals 40 feet for all plans), North arrow,
etc.
(3)
Pertinent information depicting existing and proposed conditions.
Such information includes, but is not limited to, topography and proposed
grading, buildings and structures, paved roads and impervious surfaces,
watercourse sand wetlands, and significant trees and vegetation.
(4)
The amount of land proposed to be disturbed, in acres or square feet.
The calculation should be broken down into the following types of
areas, for both existing and proposed conditions: forest, open field/agriculture,
water body, watercourse, wetland, lawn, landscaped area, building,
and paved surface. The amount of land proposed to be disturbed should
be the minimum necessary for the proposed use. Areas to remain in
a vegetated state must be clearly shown on the plans. Methods to ensure
that no activity or storage of materials or equipment takes place
within preserved areas must be shown on the plans. The creation of
landscaped steep slopes is undesirable due to increased runoff.
(5)
The amount of landscaped area and/or lawn proposed to be irrigated.
For proposed irrigation, an irrigation plan and report should be submitted
depicting water conserving devices and methods included in the system
in accordance with these regulations. The creation of landscaped areas
and lawns that demand large volumes of water should be minimized.
Landscaped areas and lawns should use drought-tolerant native plants
wherever possible to reduce water demand.
(6)
The amount of topsoil proposed to be removed on the site. All landscaped
areas shall be scarified and/or tilled and include a minimum of six
inches of topsoil to promote deep root growth and retention of water.
(7)
Water and plumbing fixtures to be used within all buildings. Water-saving
plumbing fixtures and fittings shall be used to the maximum extent
practical.
(8)
Estimates of average and maximum water usage for the proposed use,
in millions of gallons per day. This should include a detailed description
of the methodology used in the calculation of the estimate.
(9)
Methods to recharge surface runoff to groundwater resources.
(10)
Any other information deemed necessary by the Water Division.
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code.
O.
The Water
Division shall impose a project review fee on those applications which
require, in the judgment of the Water Division, review by outside
consultants due to the size, scale or complexity of the proposed project,
the project's potential impacts, or because the Town lacks the
necessary expertise to perform the review work related to the permit
or approval. The Water Division may engage engineers, planners, lawyers,
designers, or other appropriate professionals able to assist the Division
and to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, ordinances, bylaws
and regulations. Such assistance may include, but shall not be limited
to, analyzing an application, monitoring or inspecting a project or
site for compliance with the Division's decisions or regulations,
or inspecting a project during construction or implementation. Upon
receipt of an application for approval by the Water Division, Water
Division staff shall submit plans and/or other pertinent information
to the consultant chosen by the Water Division in order to obtain
an estimate of the cost of consulting or review services. On receiving
notification of the estimate, the applicant shall submit the amount
indicated to the Water Division. No review work shall commence until
the estimated fee has been paid in full. Failure to submit the fee
within five business days following notification shall be reason for
denial of the plan for failure to comply with these regulations.[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code.
P.
Within 14 calendar days after submission of the plans, the Water
Division will notify the applicant that a permit will be issued or
if additional information or revisions are needed to complete the
review.
Q.
The developer
will also submit to the Water Division two sets of as-built plans
when the work has been completed showing the main and main line valve
and curb boxes for house lots.
All tests shall be bench tested on the test bench at the Water
Division shop. Although the following description covers the actual
steps in testing a single-inch meter, the only differences for larger
meters are the rates of flow and test quantities used.
A.
Clamp the meter securely in the test bench. (Do not tighten more
than necessary to make a watertight connection, as there is a possibility
of distorting the meter housing or extruding the washer into the water
way.)
B.
Remove the register-box cover.
C.
Open the discharge valve first, then open the inlet valve gradually
and run water to waste until the entrapped air is cleared. This process
also ensures a full discharge line to the tank.
D.
Shut off the discharge valve.
E.
Check one-hundred-gallon or ten-cubic-foot tank discharge to ensure
that the tank is empty and then close the tank drain valve. (Tank
discharge should be to an open drain so that any possible leakage
of the tank drain valve can also be observed.)
F.
Revolve the meter register to set the test hand at the zero mark.
In so doing, revolve the register backward beyond the zero mark and
then reverse its direction to bring the test dial forward to the mark.
This procedure takes up any possible backlash in the gearing.
G.
Sealed registers on some magnetic-drive meters require a special
test ring that sets on top of the register box and can be rotated
so that the test hand starts at zero on the test dial.
H.
Open the test bench discharge valve as rapidly as prudently possible
to the desired rate for the minimum flow test (1/4 gpm) and continue
the flow at this rate until the meter test hand has made 10 complete
revolutions, then stop the test at the starting mark. Read meter accuracy
from the scale of the calibrated tank or, if the tank is not calibrated,
by weighing the water in the tank.
I.
Post the results of this test on the record form used.
J.
Repeat procedure for intermediate test (two gpm).
K.
Post results on record form.
L.
Repeat procedure for maximum test (15 gpm).
M.
Post results on record form.
N.
After three separate test runs are made, the meter has been fully
tested and may be removed from the test bench after the inlet valve
of the test bench has been closed and pressure has been released by
a partial opening of the discharge valve.
O.
Upon conclusion of the final test, the meter should be drained, the
register sealed, and dust caps placed on the meter spuds before the
meter is put in storage.
A.
Schedule of rates.[1]
(1)
Meters.
|
Meter Size
(inches)
|
Semiannual Charge
| |
|---|---|---|
|
Agricultural 2
|
$100.00
| |
|
Agricultural 3
|
$115.00
| |
|
Agricultural 5/8, 3/4
|
$32.50
| |
|
Agricultural 1
|
$65.00
| |
|
Agricultural 1 1/4
|
$75.00
| |
|
Commercial 1 1/2
|
$85.00
| |
|
Commercial 2
|
$100.00
| |
|
Commercial 3
|
$115.00
| |
|
Commercial 5/8, 3/4
|
$32.50
| |
|
Commercial 1
|
$65.00
| |
|
Commercial 1 1/4
|
$75.00
| |
|
Municipal 1 1/2
|
$85.00
| |
|
Municipal 3/4
|
$32.50
| |
|
Residential 5/8, 3/4
|
$32.50
| |
|
Residential 1
|
$65.00
| |
|
Residential 1 1/4
|
$75.00
| |
|
School 3
|
$115.00
| |
|
School 5/8, 3/4
|
$32.50
| |
|
Second meter 5/8, 3/4
|
$32.50
| |
|
Second meter 1
|
$65.00
| |
|
Second meter 1 1/2
|
$85.00
| |
|
Second meter 2
|
$100.00
| |
|
Second meter 1 3/4
|
$75.00
|
(2)
Cost of water.
|
User Classification
|
Usage Tier Semiannual
(cubic feet)
|
Usage Charges
(per 100 cubic feet)
| |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Residential lifeline
|
0 to 999
|
$2.25
| |
|
Residential baseline
|
1,000 to 8,249
|
$3.45
| |
|
Residential conservation
|
8,250+
|
$4.85
| |
|
Commercial lifeline
|
0 to 4,499
|
$4.35
| |
|
Commercial baseline
|
4,500 to 14,999
|
$4.50
| |
|
Commercial conservation
|
15,000+
|
$4.85
| |
|
Second meter, irrigation
|
0+
|
$4.85
| |
|
Agricultural
|
0+
|
$2.25
| |
|
Municipal
|
0+
|
$2.25
|
(3)
Bills are payable within 30 days from date of issuance and become
a lien against the property to which the service was delivered (MGL
c. 40, §§ 42A to 42I) if unpaid. Interest will be charged
on overdue water bills and will be calculated from the date of the
bill through the date of payment, in accordance with applicable Town
of Hadley bylaws.[2]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code.
B.
Schedule of charges. Payment of a system development fee must be
made prior to issuance of a building permit. Receipt of payments must
be presented to the Building Inspector. The current fee schedule is
as follows and is effective as of November 5, 2003:
(1)
Application for water service.
|
Service
(inches)
|
Fee
| |
|---|---|---|
|
3/4
|
$250.00
| |
|
1
|
$400.00
| |
|
1 1/2
|
$500.00
| |
|
2
|
$600.00
| |
|
4
|
$800.00
| |
|
6
|
$1,000.00
| |
|
8
|
$3,000.00
| |
|
12
|
$5,000.00
|
(2)
Lawn irrigation application fee: $50.
(3)
Application for waterline extension fee, public ways/developments:
$3 per foot for eight inches and $5 per foot for 12 inches or larger.
(4)
Service line inspection fee for all services: $30.
C.
Additional expenses for various fittings, labor, equipment costs
and/or installation of meter pits to be done by contractor. The system
use fee applies to each dwelling unit located in a building and to
each commercial and each industrial connection. Multifamily units
will require the minimum use fee for each separately metered unit
within the structure.
D.
Service charges.
(2)
Water tap, connection to curb box: $20 per hour, per man.
(3)
Turn water on: $20 each.
(4)
Turn water off: $20 each.
(5)
Meter test: $45 each.
(6)
Meter reading for property transfer or special reading outside regular
schedule: $45 each.
(7)
Fire flow tests: labor and water costs.
(8)
Emergency overtime: two-hour minimum per man at overtime rate.
(9)
Other water use: cost of water at rates plus administrative costs
or minimum charge of $25 (may be waived at discretion of Water Commissioners
for nonprofit benefits).
E.
Service/labor charges reflect actual Town expenses and will be adjusted
annually to reflect changes in cost to the Town.
H.
Shutoff of service. Procedure for shutoff of service to any customer
for nonpayment of bill will be in compliance with procedures outlined
by Town Counsel and in compliance with MGL c. 165, §§ 11A
through 11E. (See three letters of notification and excerpt of MGL
c. 165, §§ 11A through 11E, attached to these regulations.)[4]
[4]
Editor's Note: See Attachment B at the end of this chapter.
A.
As required by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Environmental
Protection, and the appropriate state regulations, the Water Commissioners
will require certain customers to place on their services approved
backflow prevention devices. The following customers will be required
to install these devices; however, the Water Commissioners also may
require any other customer to add the device if the possibility of
water system contamination exists:
B.
Testing will be required two times a year at a fee to be determined
by the Water Commissioners.
C.
The customers will pay for installation of all devices in accordance
with the above fee schedule. All maintenance of devices will be completed
by private contractor at the expense of the customer.
D.
The customer is responsible for installation of backflow prevention
devices and will have to contract for modifications with a licensed
plumber.
E.
Failure to assist in the installation of these devices as determined
by the Water Commissioners may result in discontinuing public water
service and a monetary fine.
F.
A set of spare repair kits must also be on hand at all times in case
device fails test.
The public system of wells, distribution lines and storage tanks
was not designed or intended to provide the added capability of unrestricted
irrigation of lawns. Such water withdrawal, particularly during the
growing season, depletes groundwater levels within the associated
recharge zones.
A.
All lawn irrigation systems connected to the municipal water system of the Town of Hadley shall be permitted with the Water Division. A fee will be charged for this registration (see § 425-19).
B.
All lawn irrigation systems installed on private property shall:
(1)
Be set back from Town property lines and roadways in order to avoid
damage to the irrigation system and/or irrigation heads when excavating
water mains or when plowing during the winter season.
(2)
Include a backflow prevention device.
(3)
Include a moisture meter or similar device to automatically shut
off the system during wet weather.
(4)
Be designed so that water does not overspray onto public streets
and drains.
(5)
Be designed to apply water during cooler parts of the day and when
water demands are lower (late evening and early morning).
(6)
Be designed to apply infrequent (no more than twice per week) but
heavy applications (approximately one inch, but no more than one inch,
per week) of water to encourage deep root growth and drought resistance.
(7)
Be adjusted to water at two-hour increments and be on a timer set
to meet periodic odd/even water requirements instituted by the Water
Division.
D.
Failure to comply with the requirements of this section may result
in fines, and continued violation may results in termination of water
service in accordance with these regulations.
