[HISTORY: Adopted by the Township Council of the Township of East Brunswick 3-14-66 by Ord. No. 66-40 and as Ch. XIII of the Revised General Ordinances; amended in its entirety 7-9-84 by Ord. No. 84-592. Subsequent amendments noted where applicable.]
[Amended 12-11-84 by Ord. No. 84-628; 3-26-18 by Ord. No. 18-04; 6-11-18 by Ord. No. 18-09]
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
BURDEN RATE
The allocation rate at which indirect costs are applied to the direct costs of labor by adding to labor payroll taxes and benefits for the individual. The burden rate is the dollar amount of burden (i.e., overhead) that is applied to $1 of wages.
CONNECTION FEE
A one-time charge to the customer for each new requested water service.
CURB STOP
The fitting attached to the end of the supply pipe, used for turning on and shutting off water at the curb.
CUSTOMER
The party contracting for the water service to a property or premises as herein classified.
a.  
A building under one roof and owned and occupied by one party as one business or residence.
b.  
A combination of buildings, owned by one party, on one common lot occupied by one business.
c.  
A dwelling unit separated by a fire-resistant partition wall and ceiling, capable of separate ownership with or without zero lot line division.
d.  
An industrial, commercial or manufacturing establishment.
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM (MAIN OR MAINS)
All public pipes, hydrants, valves, and supply pipes, other than private service pipes, used for conveying water to or distributing water in the Township.
FIRE SERVICE LINE
Any line which receives water supplied to a fire hydrant, standpipe, sprinkler system, or any combination of the foregoing located on private property.
MAIN EXTENSION
An extension or addition to the existing water distribution system piping.
METER
A device to measure the quantity of water and/or the rate of flow delivered to a customer.
METER RATES
Rates or prices to be charged for water, based upon the quantity consumed as measured by an approved water meter.
OWNER
An applicant or customer holding record title to the property or premises served.
PREMISES
A building used for either business or residential purposes, or both, together with the land appurtenant to it and any outbuildings used exclusively in connection with it, or any part of a building with the land appurtenant to it when sold as a separate unit.
REMOTE METER
A device connected to the master water meter inside the building by wire to carry pulse reading in real time to the remote meter located outside the building permitting a valid reading without the need to enter the building.
RESALE OF WATER
No resale of water by any person is permitted with the exception of metered water by a landlord to a tenant at cost.
SERVICE PIPE
A pipe extending from the curb stop into privately owned property for supplying water.
SUPERINTENDENT
The licensed system operator as covered under N.J.S.A. 58:11-5.
SUPPLY PIPE
A pipe connected to the main and extending to the curb stop behind the curbline of the street.
TAP
Is the fitting on the main to which the supply pipe is attached. It is used to facilitate connecting the service pipe to the main. All Taps shall be done under normal system operating pressure (Wet).
TAPPING FEE
A one-time charge (parts and personnel) to place the tap fitting in the line while under pressure.
TOWNSHIP
The Township Water Utility or any of the Township's authorized agents or employees.
UTILITY
The Water Utility of the Township of East Brunswick.
WATER SERVICE
The act of providing water to a customer.
[Added 12-20-10 by Ord. No. 10-32]
There shall be a Water Utility of the Township of East Brunswick, the head of which shall be the Director of the Water Utility. The Director shall serve as head of the Water Utility and shall be responsible for the supervision of all operations of the Water Utility. The Water Utility shall include such officers and employees as may be required to fulfill its responsibilities set forth herein.
[Amended 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G]
A. 
Application required. The owner of any premises desiring to use Township water or to make a change in any existing water supply shall make an application, in writing, to the Construction Official of the Township upon forms provided by the Township. The applicant(s) shall request the waterline tap to be made by the Water Utility subject to the provisions of this chapter. All applications shall be accompanied by the consent of the applicant to be bound by all of the provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations adopted by the Township.
1. 
Prior to the submission of an application for water service, it is the responsibility of the customer to inspect and examine all pipes and fixtures on the customer's property to determine whether they are in good condition. Application for water service shall constitute a representation by the customer that said inspection has been made and said appurtenances have been found to be in good condition. The Utility shall not be liable for any accident, breaks, leakage or damage arising in any way in connection with the supply of water or failure to supply same, or the freezing of water pipes or fixtures of the customer since these are the responsibility of the customer to protect, nor for any damage to the property which may result from the usage of water supplied to the premises.
B. 
Inspection. Upon receipt of an application for service, the Township may make an inspection of the premises.
C. 
Payment of fees. No water service shall be made to any premises until all fees are paid.
D. 
Connection to municipal water system. All new construction shall be connected to the municipal water system notwithstanding the existence of a well or the opportunity to obtain water from underground sources.
[Added 1-29-79 by Ord. No. 78-110]
E. 
Customers other than residential users making application for water service, in addition to making written applications for such service, shall furnish a detailed description of the type and size of buildings, the nature of the business to be conducted in the structure, the number and type of fixture to be served. Such applicants shall also furnish the Water Utility two copies of plans showing:
1. 
Boundaries of the property.
2. 
The location within the property of the structures to be served.
3. 
The location and proposed profile of finished grade of water service.
[Amended 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G]
A. 
Application. Where it is desired to use Township water service in connection with the construction or repair of a building, application shall be made to the Township Revenue Office by the owner of the building on forms furnished by the Water Utility. The character of the work contemplated and the method by which the water is to be used shall be specified in the application.
B. 
Fees. No permit for temporary water service during construction or repair shall be issued unless the fees prescribed in §§ 218-15 through 218-18 are paid in advance.
C. 
Metering. The Water Utility, at its option, may install a water meter during the construction or repair of a building upon payment of the fee prescribed in § 218-18.
[Amended 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G]
Authorized agents of the Township, upon the presentation of credentials provided by the Township, shall have access at any reasonable time to any premises supplied with Township water for the purpose of making any desired inspection or to read or repair the meter. Any person who refuses to admit a duly authorized agent for the purpose of inspection reading or repairing of the meter, or hinders or interferes with such, shall be guilty of a violation of this chapter and may be subjected to discontinuance of water service.
[Amended 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G; 3-26-18 by Ord. No. 18-04]
A. 
Request for discontinuance. Where it is desired to discontinue permanently the use of Township water at any premises, a request, in writing, to the Water Utility must be made by the owner. Upon receipt of the request, the water shall be turned off at the curb stop, and thereafter no charges shall be made for water for the premises in question.
[Amended 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
B. 
Individuals requesting the razing of a property need to receive written authorization from the Water Production Superintendent prior to the discontinuance of service.
[Amended 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
C. 
Temporary discontinuance. In case of the temporary vacancy of any premises, the water will be turned off at the curb stop upon written request to the Revenue Office, stating the period of discontinuance, and will be turned on again at the expiration of that period following the payment of required charges.
D. 
Rebates prohibited. Where the premises are left vacant, no rebate will be allowed for water registered by the meter unless the water is turned off at the curb stop.
E. 
Discontinuance by Township. Service may be discontinued by the township in accordance with the administrative procedure for any of the following causes:
(1) 
The use of water for any property or purpose other than that described in the application.
(2) 
For waste of water through improper or defective pipes or fixtures.
(3) 
For failure to protect the water meter and connections from injury or damage or for failure to properly maintain the service line and fixtures owned by the person being served.
(4) 
For tampering with any service pipe, meter, curb stop, seal or other appliance of the township.
(5) 
For nonpayment of any charges or fees for water service.
(6) 
For nonpayment of sewer charges as provided in N.J.S.A.. 40:14A-1 et seq.
(7) 
For refusing to permit the duly authorized representatives of the Utility to have access to the property for reasonable inspections.
(8) 
Making, or refusing to sever any cross connection between a pipe or fixture carrying water furnished by the Water Utility and a pipe or fixture carrying water from any other service.
(9) 
Removal of a remote metering device or cutting of connective wire is not permitted without a permit issued, without charge and an escrow deposit of $100 refundable when the remote and connecting wire has been restored. Removal without approved application is prohibited and subject to a tampering fine of $200.
A. 
In general. The Utility shall use diligence and reasonable care to provide a constant supply of water to consumers, but in the event of failure to do so owing to accident; the breakage of any service pipe, service cock or other fixtures; the flushing of waterlines and hydrants; or the shutting off of the water because of accidents, repairs, extensions, alterations, discontinuance of service for nonpayment or any other necessity that may arise; or in the event of failure to notify the consumers of a failure or accident or the shutting off of the water supply, the township shall not be liable to any consumer for any damage which may result or for any damage resulting from the elements or for any accident, failure or breakage of pipes or any other occurrence beyond the township's control.
[Amended 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G]
B. 
Maintenance of pressure. The Utility shall not be liable for the maintenance of any minimum pressure in the water system.
C. 
Physical connection. No water will be furnished to any customer where any possibility exists of the mingling of the water furnished by the Water Utility, with water from any other source. Nor will the Water Utility permit its water system to be connected to any service pipe, tank, vat or other apparatus containing liquids, chemicals or any other matter which may cause a back-siphonage or back-flow into the Water Utility supply pipe, and consequently endangering the water system.
D. 
Specific Control. The Water Utility exercises control over and assumes responsibility for only that portion of the Utility service facilities encompassing treatment facilities and water system connected to its respective customers. With respect to water service facilities, the aforesaid control and responsibility is inclusive of the water meter. All other facilities, not mentioned above, are the responsibility of customer, both in the construction, installation and maintenance of same. The customer is personally responsible for compliance with all existing township and water utility regulations, codes and ordinances.
E. 
The Utility shall in no event be responsible for maintaining any portion of the service pipe owned by the customer, for damage done by water escaping therefrom or from lines or fixtures on the customer's property. The customer shall at all times comply with applicable regulations and make changes required by reason of changes of grade or relocation of mains.
[Amended 2-8-93 by Ord. No. 93-4; 2-6-17 by Ord. No. 17-07]
A. 
In general. The water mains, supply pipes, curb stops shall be under the exclusive control of the Superintendent.
B. 
Unauthorized persons. No person other than a duly authorized agent of the Utility shall disturb, tamper with, injure, tap, change, obstruct access to or interfere with any water main, supply pipe, curb stop or meter.
C. 
Penalty. Any person who shall violate § 218-7B of this chapter shall be subject to the fines and penalties set forth in Section 1-15 of the Code and be subject to 100% of the cost of the damages caused by their willful or negligent acts which shall be automatically imposed by the Water Utility unless the person requests a hearing, in which case a summons shall be filed and served.
D. 
Emergency interconnections with adjacent municipalities are permitted under the exclusive control of the Superintendent of water provided said interconnections are made at the expense of the adjacent community in accordance with the AWWA standards and specifications of the East Brunswick Water Utility and in compliance with the Master Plan and flow requirements as demonstrated by the dynamic model.
[Added 2-8-93 by Ord. No. 93-4]
[Amended 2-9-98 by Ord. No. 98-3]
A. 
In general. Service pipes, supply pipes, curb stops, meters, hydrants, fittings, pipe and all necessary appurtenances used in the construction, installation and maintenance of the water systems shall be of a material and manufacturer approved by one or more of the following:
[Amended 6-28-76 by Ord. No. 76-90-F; 10-23-78 by Ord. No. 78-88]
American Water Works Association (AWWA)
American Standards Association (ASA)
American Society of Testing Material (ASTM)
American National Standard Institution (ANSI)
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)
N.J.A.C. Safe Drinking Water Act 7:10-l Subchapter 11
B. 
Authorized persons. All decisions on material used in construction, installation and maintenance of the water system shall be under the exclusive control of the Superintendent.
C. 
Inspection of Construction. The Utility shall inspect all construction being done on the water system, which shall be dedicated to the Water Utility to determine whether said system facilities are being constructed in the proper manner. The Utility shall inform the applicant of any improper construction or any deviation from the approved plans of the Utility or from its rules, regulations or specifications. The applicant shall thereafter correct any defects or deficiencies. The Utility reserves the right to issue a stop-work order to the applicant in the event of improper construction. The Utility shall be under no obligation to provide water service to an applicant if the water system is not built in accordance with the approved construction plans and the Utility rules, regulation and specifications as covered under this Chapter.
D. 
Acceptance of completed construction. After construction has been completed, the applicant shall request in writing that the Utility accept the water system. The applicant shall at the time of the request, submit to the Superintendent any and all completed documents which are necessary to:
a. 
Dedicate all water facilities including mains, valves, hydrants and any and all related appurtenances, to the township, which are located in the public right-of-way or in easemented areas approved by the Utility;
b. 
Furnish to the Utility two sets of as-built drawings of the water system, as constructed in the field, certified by the engineer for the application. The drawings shall contain footage of pipe, size of pipe, location of valves, hydrants, pipes and curb stops.
c. 
Comply with all performance and maintenance bond regulations.
The Utility shall not accept any water facilities which are not located in the public right-of-way or in easemented areas approved by the Utility. In this event, the Utility shall approve final construction, but shall not accept the facilities and said facilities shall remain the private property of and shall be maintained by the applicant. Any additional cost governing these private facilities shall be covered under &§ 218-15 through 218-18.
E. 
Maintenance. Supply pipes and mains shall be maintained by the Water Utility and shall remain the property of the township.
F. 
Installation.
[Amended 2-9-98 by Ord. No. 98-3]
1. 
Supply pipes of Type K copper tubing, at least one inch in diameter, shall be installed and maintained at the expense of the owner by a licensed plumber and shall be installed in accordance with drawings and the materials specified on the drawings on file in the office of the Superintendent and in accordance with applicable New Jersey statutes.
2. 
All nonmetallic service pipes shall be installed with a companion trace wire of #12 TW which shall run the entire length of the service pipe between the curb stop and the meter connection. The trace wire shall be securely fastened to the service pipe at regular intervals not to exceed ten (10) feet using noncorrodible fasteners. The bared end of the trace wire shall be securely fastened to the curb stop using a noncorrodible metal clamp. The meter end of the trace wire shall be securely fastened to the meter yoke using noncorrodible fasteners leaving a six-inch (minimum) pigtail, but the wire shall not be connected to the meter or any of its appurtenances. The trace wire shall be clearly labeled inside the structure with a tag identifying it as the "WATER SERVICE TRACER".
[Added 2-9-98 by Ord. No. 98-3]
G. 
Curb boxes shall be installed at grade level and kept uncovered by the owner and shall not be in the driveway or sidewalk.
H. 
Criteria for water system construction.
A. 
An application for conceptual approval of proposed construction of water facilities shall be submitted to the Water Utility for a review of the outlined system, route of construction, estimated flow and usage requirement by the applicant. No application will be considered unless a professional engineer registered in the state of New Jersey is in charge of the planning and design of the proposed water distribution facilities and has affixed his seal and signature to the plans.
B. 
Engineer's Report.
A complete engineer's report, setting forth the basis of designs shall be submitted to the Water Utility by the applicant for each project. It shall contain the following minimum data:
1. 
Water Distribution System.
(a) 
Description of geographic area to be served.
(b) 
Existing and predicted population of areas to be served.
(c) 
Terrain data in sufficient detail to establish general topographic features of area to be served.
(d) 
Minimum pressure at peak day demand plus fire flow.
(e) 
Intended use of the proposed realty improvements and the characteristics of use of the other than residential.
(f) 
The effect of the proposed water distribution facilities and existing or proposed water distribution facilities.
(g) 
The estimated flow.
(h) 
Description of materials to be used.
(i) 
A preliminary cost estimate.
(j) 
Any other factors which would affect design and use of the water distribution system.
(k) 
Any other factors which may be required by New Jersey DEP.
(l) 
Location of all other proposed utilities.
Materials used in the construction of water mains, supply and service pipe and appurtenances are indicated in the specifications of water systems which are on file at the Water Production Superintendent's office.
C. 
General Map of the Entire Project.
A general map of the entire project shall be furnished, showing existing and proposed water mains, valves, hydrants and other appurtenances.
D. 
Plans and Specifications.
The submitted plans for the proposed water facilities shall include a general site plan showing boundaries, contours, proposed and existing water mains, underground burial of other utilities and shall include the items referred to in the engineer's report that are related to the design drawing.
(1) 
Plans shall be uniform size 24" x 36", with a 2" border on top, bottom and right side and a 2" border on the left side. The last shall be one for binding. Two (2) sets of plans shall be submitted for review and the plan shall show the following.
(2) 
(a) 
(a) Details. The plans shall show existing and proposed water and sewer lines, appurtenances, contours and all existing and proposed streets. The plans shall also show all other utilities which may conflict with the water system. All sheets shall be numbered.
(b) 
Symbols. Proposed water mains and appurtenances shall be shown by a solid line. All topographical symbols and connections shall be those used by the United States Geodetic Survey.
(c) 
Elevations. All permanent bench marks of the New Jersey coast and Geodetic Survey shall be shown.
(d) 
Distances, Size and Material. The distances, diameter and material of water mains shall appear on the plans.
A. 
Freezing. Service pipes between the foundation wall and the meter likely to be exposed to freezing temperatures shall be effectively protected from freezing by the property owner. In the event that the Utility shall find it reasonable and necessary to thaw frozen water pipes leading to or located at residential property only, the Utility shall so advise the property owner who shall permit entry of Utility personnel on his property in order to thaw frozen water pipes. The Utility representative shall require the property owner or any member of the household over the age of eighteen (18) years to sign a hold harmless agreement with the Utility releasing the Utility from any claim for personal injury or property damage arising from the repair or thawing of water pipes leading to the premises in question. The Utility shall be paid for all direct and indirect costs involved in responding to a request by a customer of the water utility to thaw frozen water pipes.
[Amended 9-26-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-J; 1-23-78 by Ord. No. 78-90-K; 11-30-81 by Ord. No. 81-417]
B. 
Heat. Pipes shall be installed in a manner that will prevent any possible damage resulting from external heat from boilers, heaters, etc.
C. 
Meter protection. Service pipes shall be installed in a manner that will prevent any hot water or other destructive product from returning to the meter.
A. 
Meter required. All Utility water used on any premises, except for fire service lines, must pass through a meter furnished by the Utility.
B. 
Duty of consumers. All persons using water supplied by the Utility shall have the duty of determining that the water is being supplied through a meter purchased from the Utility, except as provided in Subsection A. Failure to do so shall not relieve any person from liability for water supplied, and, in such case, the Utility shall determine the amount of water used and the rates to be charged.
C. 
Bypasses of meters prohibited. All unmetered bypasses are outlawed, and, if a bypass is used, both the owner and the plumber shall be guilty of a violation of this chapter. The only time a jumper may be used is to test the lines, and, after the test is finished, the water is to be shut off at the curb and only turned on by the Utility. After the tap has been installed, the water shall be shut off at the curb and shall be turned on only by the Utility after construction water has been paid for in advance.
D. 
Meter installations. In all cases where meters are to be installed, the Utility shall determine the size, proper location and manner in which the meter shall be installed and protected. All new meters shall be installed by the township with outside remote reading devices so they can be read without the meter reader going inside. The owner or agent shall supply and install a meter yoke and prewiring for a meter remote. The wire shall start from the meter location to a point outside the building. The wire for the meter remote shall be located in front of the building or near the frontage, but not more than ten feet from the front of the building. The outside wire shall be located not more than five feet nor less than four feet above grade. The area in front of the meter remote shall be accessible for reading or maintenance. It will be the responsibility of the owner or agent to install the wiring according to specifications as promulgated by the Director of the Meter Division with the advice of the Construction Official.
[Amended 12-13-82 by Ord. No. 82-477]
E. 
Meter yokes.
(1) 
Meter yokes shall be installed in a manner that provides easy removal, replacement, inspection and reading of the meter.
(2) 
Meter yokes shall be located as near as possible to the rear or side entrance of a building not having a basement.
(3) 
Under no circumstances shall meter yokes be installed in crawl spaces.
(4) 
Meter yokes shall be installed in a manner that will prevent unauthorized removal or tampering with a meter.
(5) 
Meter yokes shall be placed in a free and clear space at least 2 x 2 feet.
(6) 
The decision of the Superintendent in regard to meter yokes shall be final.
[Amended 6-28-76 by Ord. No. 76-90-F; amended 10-23-78 by Ord. No. 78-88]
F. 
Care and protection of meters.
(1) 
The meter shall remain the property of the Utility. The owner shall be held responsible for the meter, including its care and protection from damage, freezing, hot water or similar causes. The owner shall also be responsible for preventing unauthorized persons from tampering with the meter. In case of damage to the meter or its stoppage or improper working, the owner shall immediately notify the Utility, and the Utility shall repair the meter.
(2) 
Where replacements, repairs or adjustments of any meter, whether owned by the Utility or not, become necessary due to any willful or negligent act by the owner or occupant of any premises, the owner shall be responsible to the Utility for any expense which it occasions as a result.
(3) 
Meters shall be sealed by the Utility, and no person, except an agent of the Township, shall disconnect, remove, break, injure or in any way tamper with the seal. A fee of $50 will be imposed for tampering with the meter seal.
[Amended 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
G. 
Testing of meters. The Utility shall test the accuracy and condition of any meter upon the written request of the owner or occupant of the premises served by the meter and the payment, in advance, of the fee prescribed. If the meter is found to register over 2% fast, it shall be repaired by the Utility or another meter substituted and the test fee refunded. The Utility may adjust the water bill upon whatever basis which it deems to be just and reasonable. If the meter is found to register more than 2% slow, it shall be repaired by the Utility or another meter substituted, and the Utility may adjust the water bill upon whatever basis which it deems to be just and reasonable. If the meter is inoperative and fails to register, the customer will be charged on the basis of the average daily consumption shown by the meter when operative. The Utility may make periodic tests of all meters.
A. 
Declaration of emergency. Whenever the Superintendent of Water Production, upon independent investigation, certifies that an emergency exists in the water supply, the Township Council or, if the emergency will not permit delay, then the Mayor, may proclaim a water emergency and prescribe regulations to:
[Amended 6-28-76 by Ord. No. 76-90-F; 10-23-78 by Ord. No. 78-88]
(1) 
Prohibit the use of water for any purpose not necessary to the health or safety of the public.
(2) 
Allocate the available water supply.
(3) 
Reduce consumption of water.
(4) 
Prevent waste for the period of the emergency.
B. 
Effect of regulations. The proclamation of an emergency shall be conclusive as to the fact of the existence of an emergency and shall be binding upon all persons upon its filing in the office of the Township Clerk and publication in a newspaper circulating in the Township. Any regulations included in the proclamation and any regulations subsequently promulgated shall have the same force as if specifically set forth in this section. Every owner, lessee, tenant and occupant of any building or premises served by Township water shall, upon a promulgation of regulations, become bound by them and shall conform to them in the use of water and the maintenance of water service connections and equipment.
A. 
In general. Every owner of buildings and premises connected with the municipal water supply shall maintain the water service pipes, fixtures and connections in good order and repair in order to ensure that there shall be no waste of water and shall immediately make necessary repairs to prevent the waste of water.
B. 
Duties of occupants and tenants. Every lessee, tenant and occupant of any building or premises connected with the municipal water supply shall immediately notify the owner or his agent and the municipality of any defective water service pipes, fixtures and connections causing waste of water.
C. 
Duty of owner. Upon receiving notice of any waste of water due to defective pipes, fixtures or connections, the owner of any premises served by the municipal water supply shall immediately make all necessary repairs.
D. 
Repairs by Utility. Whenever an owner shall fail or refuse to make repairs to prevent the waste of water after proper notice as defined in Administrative Procedures Manual, the Township may make the repairs and charge the cost to the owner in the same manner as other water charges are made.
E. 
Between May 1 and September 15, no person shall water a lawn or fill a swimming pool on an odd date unless he or she resides in a house having an odd number, and no person shall water a lawn or fill a swimming pool on an even date unless he or she resides in a house having an even number.
[Added 5-24-82 by Ord. No. 82-462]
A. 
Unauthorized use of fire hydrants.
(1) 
No person, other than a duly authorized agent or employee of the Township or a member of an authorized fire agency while engaged in the performance of his duties, shall open or attempt to open any fire hydrants or valves connected with the water supply system of the Township without obtaining written permission from the Water Production Superintendent.
[Amended 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
(2) 
No person shall obstruct or prevent free access to, tamper with, injure or damage a fire hydrant; nor shall any person place any material, debris, structure or object of any kind within a distance of 10 feet from a hydrant. Any obstruction, when discovered, may be removed at once by the Utility at the expense of the person responsible. Removal of the obstruction shall be in addition to any penalty which may be imposed for a violation of this subsection.
B. 
Duty of property owner. The owner of any property upon which a fire hydrant is located, including the owner of any property which abuts upon a portion of a public street on which a fire hydrant is located, shall have the duty of keeping the hydrant and the area immediately surrounding it free from snow, brush, weeds, debris or any other thing which might impede access to the hydrant.
C. 
Private fire outlets. Where pipes are provided for fire protection on any premises or where hose connections for fire apparatus are provided on any pipe, each connection or opening on those pipes, except sprinkler heads, shall have a standard thread as specified by the Township. No water shall be taken or used through such pipe openings for any purpose other than firefighting or for testing fire apparatus after obtaining a special permit from the Superintendent of Water Production to make a test. Each test must be conducted under the supervision of Township personnel.
[Amended 6-28-76 by Ord. No. 76-90-F; 10-23-78 by Ord. No. 78-88]
D. 
Permit to open hydrant. It is hereby declared to be the policy of the Township of East Brunswick that the primary purpose of fire hydrants is for fire protection. However, the Superintendent of Water Production is authorized to issue a permit to any person to open a fire hydrant for a purpose other than fire protection. Permits shall be issued in accordance with rules and regulations which are established, and which rules and regulations shall take into consideration the policy established by this subsection. Each permit shall specify the location of the hydrant or hydrants to be opened, the date or dates upon which they may be opened, the length of time they may remain opened, and the purpose for which such openings may be made.
[Amended 6-28-76 by Ord. No. 76-90-F; 10-23-78 by Ord. No. 78-88; 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
E. 
Return of hydrant meter. Failure to return a hydrant meter within the time frame of the permit shall result in a $100 fine being levied plus loss of deposit.
[Amended 6-28-99 by Ord. No. 99-30]
A. 
Application. Application for a connection to the potable water supply system for the purpose of installing a sprinkler system shall be made to the license operator of the Water Utility as governed under state statute. The installation shall be performed in accordance with regulations and standards as set by the N.J.A.C. 7:10 National Standard Plumbing Code and the N.J. Uniform Construction Code, latest edition, and the East Brunswick Water Utility and other applicable codes of the Township of East Brunswick and subject to the charges as specified in §§ 218-15 through 218-19.
B. 
Protection from Fire Sprinkler System.
1. 
The potable water supply system which shall supply water to any fire protection system, including, but not limited to, standpipe and automatic sprinkler systems, shall be protected from backpressure and backsiphonage by one of the following devices:
x
Reduced-pressure backflow preventer
x
Reduced-pressure detector assembly
2. 
Whenever a backflow device is installed in the potable water supply to a fire protection system, the hydraulic design of the system shall account for the pressure drop through the backflow device. If such devices are retrofitted for an existing fire protection system, the hydraulics of the sprinkler system design shall be checked to verify that there will be sufficient water pressure available for satisfactory operation of the fire sprinklers.
C. 
Protection from lawn and irrigation system. When the potable water supply system will be utilized for a lawn or irrigation system, the water supply system shall be protected from backflow by a reduced-pressure backflow preventer.
[Amended 3-28-66 by Ord. No. 66-40-A; 10-26-70 by Ord. No. 70-90-A; 12-10-73 by Ord. No. 73-90-D; 5-10-76 by Ord. No. 76-90-E; 5-23-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-H; 6-12-78 by Ord. No. 78-34; 9-14-81 by Ord. No. 81-396; 2-14-83 by Ord. No. 83-495; 12-29-89 by Ord. No. 89-88; 12-23-91 by Ord. No. 91-120; 12-28-92 by Ord. No. 92-55; 9-13-99 by Ord. No. 99-37; 12-19-05 by Ord. No. 05-39; 12-17-07 by Ord. No. 07-27; 3-22-10 by Ord. No. 10-06; 5-22-17 by Ord. No. 17-23; 6-11-18 by Ord. No. 18-09; 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
A. 
The water meter fixed fee shall be based on the water meter size as outlined below. These rates apply to all properties, including single and multiple dwellings and commercial and industrial properties. Rates may be billed monthly but at a minimum quarterly.
Meter Fee Per Quarter
Meter Size
(inches)
Year 2020
Year 2021
Year 2022
Year 2023
Year 2024
5/8, 3/4, and 1
$36
$37
$38
$40
$41
1 1/2
$72
$74
$76
$80
$82
2
$115.20
$118.40
$121.60
$128
$131
3
$230.40
$236.80
$243.20
$256
$262.40
4
$360
$370
$380
$400
$410
6
$720
$740
$760
$800
$820
8
$1,152
$1,184
$1,216
$1,280
$1,312
[Amended 1-24-77 by Ord. No. 77-1-VV; 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G; 9-12-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-I; 4-10-78 by Ord. No. 78-6; 12-28-92 by Ord. No. 92-55; 9-13-99 by Ord. No. 99-37; 12-19-05 by Ord. No. 05-39; 12-17-07 by Ord. No. 07-27; 3-22-10 by Ord. No. 10-06; 5-22-17 by Ord. No. 17-23; 6-11-18 by Ord. No. 18-09; 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
A. 
The rates for all water supplied by the Township to any premises are hereby fixed in accordance with the following rate per 1,000 gallons of consumption. Rates are billed quarterly but may be billed monthly, based upon the total water consumption as recorded through each meter account.
Consumption Rate Per 1,000 Gallons
Year 2020
Year 2021
Year 2022
Year 2023
Year 2024
$5.20
$5.36
$5.51
$5.67
$5.83
B. 
In the event that there is a stopped meter or the Utility is unable to get a reading, the customer shall receive an estimated bill.
[Amended 10-26-70 by Ord. No. 70-90-A; 5-8-72 by Ord. No. 72-90-B; 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G; 12-28-92 by Ord. No. 92-55; 9-13-99 by Ord. No. 99-37; 12-19-05 by Ord. No. 05-39; 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
A. 
The water sprinkler riser fixed fee shall be based on the water sprinkler riser meter size as outlined below. These rates apply to all properties, including single and multiple dwellings and commercial and industrial properties. Rates may be billed monthly but at a minimum quarterly.
Meter Size
(inches)
Sprinkler Meter Fee Per Quarter
Year 2020
Year 2021
Year 2022
Year 2023
Year 2024
3
$16
$17
$21
$22
$22
4
$80
$85
$105
$110
$110
6
$180
$191.25
$236.25
$247.50
$247.50
8
$240
$255
$315
$330
$330
10
$320
$340
$420
$440
$440
12
$450
$478.13
$590.63
$618.75
$618.75
B. 
For the purpose of determining pipe size, measurement shall be made where the private line connects to the Utility system.
C. 
A minimum charge of $100 will be charged every four months for each fire hydrant installed on private property as outlined below.
Fire Hydrant Fee Per Quarter
Year 2020
Year 2021
Year 2022
Year 2023
Year 2024
$100
$100
$100
$100
$100
[Amended 10-9-67 by Ord. No. 67-90; 6-28-76 by Ord. No. 76-90-F; 4-25-77 by Ord. No. 77-90-G; 1-24-77 by Ord. No. 77-1-VV; 8-21-78 by Ord. No. 78-44; 8-21-78 by Ord. No. 78-48; 10-23-78 by Ord. No. 78-88; 9-28-81 by Ord. No. 81-402; 12-28-92 by Ord. No. 92-55; 6-9-97 by Ord. No. 97-18; 12-19-05 by Ord. No. 05-39; 6-11-18 by Ord. No. 18-09; 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
A. 
Tapping service charge. Copies of fee schedules are to be annually filed in the offices of the Township Clerk and Collector of Revenue, certified by the Director of Finance each year. The schedule shall be for fees associated with providing water service and shall include the cost of issuing a permit making the tap to the water main.
(1) 
The applicant shall furnish and install all curb stops, valves and supply pipes from the main to the curb box, including the connection to the corporation or tapping valve, all of which shall be in accordance with Utility specifications on file in the Superintendent's office.
(2) 
All excavation and trench work must be done by the owner. Permits for road openings, where applicable, must be made to the Township before the issuance of a permit. The cost of same is not included in the water tap permit.
(3) 
Additions to the foregoing charges shall be made, where applicable, as follows:
(a) 
On state highways, there shall be an added charge for any fees that may be charged by the New Jersey State Highway Department. The customer will be responsible for paying the fees or charges, and the cost thereof shall be in addition to the water service charges listed above.
(b) 
On county roads, there shall be an added charge for inspection and repair of pavement as determined by the Middlesex County Highway Department. Permits shall be secured directly from the county.
B. 
Water meter installation fee. The following fees shall be charged for approved meters to be furnished and be installed by the Water Utility:
(1) 
Installed meters shall be in accordance with bids adopted by resolution of the governing body plus one hour's burden labor at current rate.
(2) 
A charge for installation of meters greater than 5/8 inch shall be computed on the basis of the cost of the meter, plus a 20% surcharge.
(3) 
Meters two inches and larger shall be purchased from the Utility based on the current bid price and installed at the expense of the owner by a private plumber.
(4) 
All meters two inches and larger must be equipped with a strainer.
C. 
Permit for water service during construction.
(1) 
The fee for a permit for temporary water service during construction shall be $40 per dwelling unit plus a deposit equal to inventory cost for a hydrant meter and wrench to be placed on the hydrant when water is to be obtained during construction.
(2) 
For commercial buildings, the construction fee shall be equal to inventory cost for a hydrant meter and wrench to be used when water is to be obtained during construction.
(3) 
All water used for construction purposes shall be metered through a meter supplied by the Water Production Superintendent.
D. 
Meter tests. The fee for the test of the accuracy or condition of any water meter made at the request of the owner shall be charged according to the cost to the Utility.
E. 
Turn-ons. A fee of $25 shall be charged for turning on the water at the curb stop during normal hours, or actual cost during nonwork hours.
F. 
Emergency request for service shall be billed at actual cost of same service.
G. 
Hydrant use permits. Charges for fire hydrant use permits shall be calculated on the basis of rates on file. There shall be a minimum charge of $100 for 20,000 gallons. The Township may, at its option, furnish and install a meter on loan in lieu of an estimated charge and in such case shall receive a deposit equal to the cost of such meter.
[Added 2-14-83 by Ord. No. 83-493; amended 7-25-83 by Ord. No. 83-520; 2-15-84 by Ord. No. 84-551; 8-11-86 by Ord. No. 86-766; 9-22-86 by Ord. No. 86-776; 1-27-87 by Ord. No. 87-820; 7-27-87 by Ord. No. 87-854; 10-25-89 by Ord. No. 89-77; 9-25-91 by Ord. No. 91-98; 12-28-92 by Ord. No. 92-55]
A. 
All new customers shall pay a one-time water service connection fee for each new unit requesting service in an amount established by the Chief Finance Officer and certified to the Township Clerk after the auditors for the Township of East Brunswick have followed the appropriate formula and certified the amount of the connection fee for each calendar year. The connection fee to be charged for each new unit will be that fee in effect at the time the service is requested. In the event there is a change in the use of the structure which includes either a change in the intensity of use or a change in the size of the facility which results in the increases in the nature or extent of the service provided by the Water Utility, the Utility shall increase an additional connection fee to correspond with the increased intensity.
Annually, the Chief Finance Officer is to certify to the Municipal Clerk and Collector of Revenue the connection and tapping fees which will apply for the forthcoming year. Said fees shall take effect 30 days after the Chief Finance Officer's certification to the Township Council and filing with the Municipal Clerk.
B. 
In order to encourage property owners to tie into the municipal water system and to discontinue the use of pumping water from wells, which pumpage may adversely affect the aquifer, a person converting from well water to the Township water system may pay the connection fee referred in § 218-19A in equal payments over a twelve-month period with interest computed at the same rate as charged for payment for improvements under assessment ordinances.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, any property owner who has experienced groundwater pollution or contamination, as verified by the Health Department of the Township of East Brunswick, may convert from well water to the Township water system and may pay the connection fee in equal payments over a five-year period, without interest.
C. 
Owners of land or developers who are not converting from existing wells to the Township water system are not entitled to pay the connection fee over a twelve-month period as set forth in § 218-19B but must pay the connection fee at the time application for connection is made.
[Added 9-26-83 by Ord. No. 83-535]
If the Township Council obtains clear and convincing evidence that a resident's well has become contaminated or polluted through no fault of the resident, the Township Council may adopt a resolution waiving any or all of the tapping and connection fees provided for in this chapter. In adopting such a resolution, the Township Council may provide that the resident be permitted to defer payment of any or all of the tapping and connection fees until such time as the subject property is sold, in which event the amount of such fees which is not paid shall become a lien on the subject property in favor of the Township, and the amount of the lien, with interest, shall be satisfied at the time that the property is sold.
[Amended 10-9-79 by Ord. No. 79-184; 6-22-92 by Ord. No. 92-25]
A. 
Payment of charges. Charges for water consumed in any quarterly period or fraction of a quarter shall be due and payable within 20 days from the date of the billing. In the event that charges are not paid when due, a late fee shall be added to the amount of the bill. The amount of the late fee shall be computed at the same rate as the rate of interest upon delinquent taxes.
[Amended 12-9-2019 by Ord. No. 19-35]
(1) 
The quantity recorded by the inside meter shall be conclusive on both the customer and utility, except when the meter has been found to be inaccurate. In such cases, the quantity may be determined as provided under § 218-10G and 218-20A2 and 3.
(2) 
Any customer that disputes a bill rendered by the Utility for water shall bring the disputed bill to the attention of the Revenue Office of the Utility within 15 days of the issuance of the bill. Said dispute shall be presented to the office of the Revenue Official in writing, stating the exact portion of the bill that is in dispute and the reasons why the bill is in dispute.
(3) 
Upon receipt of a disputed bill claim by a customer, the Collector of Revenue shall present a temporary estimated bill to the customer which shall be computed on the basis of the average usage during the preceding twelve-month period or the usage during the same period of time in the preceding year, whichever, in the estimation of the Collector of Revenue, presents a more-accurate estimate. The customer shall pay the amount of the temporary estimated bill within the same time limits for payment of the original bill.
(4) 
The Collector of Revenue shall investigate the bill dispute presented by the customer and shall receive whatever supporting evidence the customer may wish to present and shall determine whether the disputed bill is valid or is invalid in whole or in part. In the event that the Collector of Revenue determines that any or all of the disputed bill is due, and that amount exceeds the amount paid by the customer under the temporary estimated bill, the difference shall be paid by the customer within 14 days after notification, in writing, by the Collector of Revenue. After said fourteen-day period, the bill shall be classified as delinquent and shall be processed as covered under § 218-20A and B of this chapter.
(5) 
No abatement on meter bills will be made for leaks, or for water wasted by damaged or defective fixtures.
B. 
Lien for unpaid water charges. In accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey, all charges for water and all other municipal charges provided in this chapter, including penalties, shall be a lien upon the property on account of which the charge is incurred until paid.
C. 
Penalty for bad checks. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:62-77, a penalty will be imposed upon water customers attempting to pay water bills with checks which are returned due to insufficient funds, which penalty shall be in the amount of $20 for each such check.
[Added 7-13-15 by Ord. No. 15-10]
A. 
"Asset management" is based upon GASB (Government Accounting Standards Board) Accounting Statement #34 or future amendment which deals with fixed assets. The East Brunswick Water Utility and private-sector companies use accrual accounting which measures the current liability but also long-term asset liabilities. Examples of such are capital assets, infrastructure and general obligation debt. The concept of utilizing GASB #34 for Asset Management is to have our tanks in such condition there is zero depreciation. Zero depreciation means the tanks and ground reservoir are in like-new condition at all times. To accomplish this requires a sound program and consistent funding to protect these valuable assets.
(1) 
In accordance with N.J.S.A. 58:26-23, known as the "New Jersey Water Supply Public Private Contracting Act," the Township is permitted to sign a long-term contract with a qualified company based upon compliance with the statuary provisions.
(2) 
The management of the maintenance contract will be under the responsibilities of the Director of Water Utility in accordance with the standard operating procedures.
(3) 
The New Jersey Water Supply Public Private Contracting Act permits contracts to be signed for a period of 50 years, which shall be controlled by the Township Council and the passage of appropriate resolutions upon proper compliance with the Public Private Contracting Act.