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Chapter 20: Governing and Restricting the Use and Supply of Water
§ 20-01 Permits.
   (a)   General information. Subject to the provisions of this chapter, permits will be issued for the following purposes upon receipt of proper applications and permit fees:
      Hydrant, Use of
      Meter Accuracy Test
      Meter Attachment
      Meter Disconnect for Repair or Change of Piping ("Break Seal")
      Meter Setting, New, Replacement or Additional
      Meter Testing and Repair Company
      Plug, Tap/Wet Connection (Termination of Service)
      Service Connection, Relay of
      Service Connection, Repair of
      Service Connection, Thawing of
      Tap Installation
      Tap Installation and Plug of Prior Tap
      Tap Location, Electrical Indicator
      Wet Connection Installation (including Internal Water Main)
      Wet Connection Installation and Plug of Prior Tap or Wet Connection
   All work under a permit must be performed by the permit holder and/or persons directly employed and supervised by the permit holder. Permits are not transferable and valid for the work described thereon.
   (b)   Issuance. Permit applications shall be submitted, and permits shall be obtained before commencement of any work requiring a permit. Where permits involving plumbing work are required, such permits will be issued only to Licensed Master Plumbers, and to plumbers in the employ of municipal, state or federal agencies and authorities. Permits to set, reset, repair, or disconnect a water meter on service pipes with a diameter of less than one and one-half (1 1/2) inches may be issued to persons who may lawfully perform such work under 15 RCNY § 20-05(c). Meter repair permits may also be issued to meter repair companies for repair on the premises of water meters.
      (1)   Any work performed without a permit as required by these Rules shall be a violation.
      (2)   Permits for all emergency work must be obtained within forty-eight (48) hours or by the end of the second business day following commencement of the work.
      (3)   Upon the expiration date of a plumber's license, if such license is not renewed within 60 days after such expiration date, all permits issued under that license shall also expire.
      (4)   (i)   The Commissioner may deny any permit application, and may revoke, suspend, cancel, or terminate any previously issued permit, where any party related to the work, including but not limited to the contractor, building owner, or licensed master plumber, has docketed, unpaid civil penalties imposed by the New York City Environmental Control Board or a tribunal of the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings for violations of 15 RCNY §§ 20-01, 20-02, 20-04, 20-05, 20-06, or 20-08 or §§ 24-308, 24-337 or 24-339 of the Administrative Code.
         (ii)   In determining whether to exercise the power granted by subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the Commissioner shall consider whether such applicant or permittee has other unpaid penalties, taxes or other debt owed to the city; the amount of the unpaid civil penalties imposed by the environmental control board or a tribunal of the office of administrative trials and hearings; whether the violation underlying the unpaid penalties imposed by the environmental control board or a tribunal of the office of administrative trials and hearings was issued by the Department of Environmental Protection or another agency; whether such violation is one of a series of violations returnable to such board or tribunal and the nature of the underlying violation; whether the unpaid civil penalties imposed by the environmental control board or a tribunal of the office of administrative trials and hearings were imposed pursuant to a finding of default that was subsequently vacated or whether the applicant or permittee has made a request to vacate such default and obtain a new hearing pursuant to the rules of such board or tribunal; or any other consideration the commissioner deems appropriate.
   (c)   Regulation of permit work. If a Licensed Master Plumber or meter repair company fails to comply with three (3) or more provisions, standards or requirements of these Rules, or the terms and conditions of any permit already issued under these Rules, during a three (3) month period, the Commissioner or his/her designee, in accordance with § 24-309 of the Administrative Code, may make a determination not to issue additional permits from applications submitted from such Licensed Master Plumber or meter repair company until such time as all the violations or non-compliances are corrected.
      (1)   In the event the Commissioner or his/her designee makes such a determination, the BCS Deputy Commissioner shall mail the determination to the address set forth in the Department of Building's (DOB) records.
      (2)   The Licensed Master Plumber or meter repair company, as applicable, may appeal the Commissioner's determination by filing a notarized petition within 60 days from the date of the Commissioner's determination with the Commissioner, 59-17 Junction Boulevard, 19th Floor, Flushing, New York 11373-5108. The appeal shall state the name and address of the petitioner, include a short and plain statement of the matters to be adjudicated, address each of the violations mentioned in the Commissioner's determination, with a statement of the reason or reasons why the petitioner believes the determination was incorrect, including supporting documentation, and include the Commissioner's determination. During the review of the appeal, the Commissioner shall continue to issue permits to the Licensed Master Plumber or meter repair company.
      (3)   Upon review of the appeal, the Commissioner or his/her designee may, in his/her discretion, grant or deny the petition. Appeals shall be processed within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of such appeal. If the Department fails to process an appeal within thirty (30) calendar days the appeal shall be granted, provided that the petitioner has responded to all requests for information submitted by the Department.
      (4)   The filing of an appeal shall not relieve the petitioner from complying with any requirements of the Rules, and shall not immunize any person or entity from any civil or criminal prosecution authorized pursuant to the Rules.
   (d)   Department of Transportation approvals. All permits for work requiring opening or obstructing a street and/or sidewalk shall be contingent upon approval by the Department of Transportation (DOT) or the agency having jurisdiction to authorize such opening.
   (e)   Permits at work site. All permits required by the Department must be displayed at the work site. Failure to display necessary permits shall be a violation of these Rules.
   (f)   Emergency repairs.
      (1)   A Licensed Master Plumber may perform emergency repairs where a defective service or defective interior piping results in leakage of City water and/or immediate danger to the public safety. All required permits must be obtained in accordance with the provisions of 15 RCNY § 20-01(b)(2).
      (2)   Where it is necessary to open a street for emergency repairs, a Licensed Master Plumber shall obtain an emergency permit from DOT or the agency having jurisdiction to authorize such an opening.
   (g)   Return of permit after completion of work. Within ten (10) business days following the completion of any work for which a meter permit has been issued, the permit, carrying a certification of the date of completion of the work, shall be returned to the Department. A permit shall expire after 365 days for new construction work and after 30 days for meter replacements or first-time meter installations in existing buildings. If the work is to be performed after that time, the applicant must apply for a permit extension before the original permit expires. If a completed meter permit is not returned upon completion of the work, the official meter set date shall be 30 days after issuance of the permit for meter replacements or first-time meter installations in existing buildings or 365 days after issuance of the permit for new construction work.
   (h)   Department of Parks and Recreation Permits. Excavation work for water services or for outdoor pit meters immediately adjacent to or under the drip line of a street tree requires a permit from the Department of Parks and Recreation and compliance with its "Forestry Protocol for Planned and Emergency Utility Work."
(Amended City Record 7/26/2021, eff. 8/25/2021)
§ 20-02 Taps to City Water Mains.
   (a)   Separate supply. A separate corporation stop (tap) and service connection shall be installed for each building supplied with City water, except for buildings that have service connections supplied by internal water mains as described in 15 RCNY § 20-03(b). One tax lot cannot be supplied with water from another tax lot. Y-type corporation stops (taps) or service connections on the inlet side of the main house control valve or upstream of the backflow prevention device are prohibited. A service connection connected to the City main by a T-connection, or by any means other than a corporation stop (tap) or a wet connection, shall be controlled by a gate valve placed in the service connection, and located within two (2) feet of the point of connection to the main. Any property that meets any of the following conditions must be in full compliance with this subdivision:
      (1)   Any property constructed after January 1, 1992.
      (2)   A sale of property either supplying City water to another tax lot or being supplied with City water from another tax lot;
      (3)   The installation of a new service connection and/or renovation of an existing service connection where such installation or renovation shall constitute a substantial improvement to or alteration of the property, as defined in § 24-334(2) of the Administrative Code of the City of New York;
      (4)   The renovation of a property supplying City water to another tax lot or being supplied with City water from another tax lot where such renovation shall constitute a substantial improvement to or alteration of the property, as defined in § 24-334(2) of the Administrative Code of the City of New York; and
      (5)   Conversion of a property's billing from metered to flat-rate or flat-rate to metered.
   Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this subdivision, any property that receives a written waiver from the Department dated after January 1, 2021 shall be considered in full compliance with this subdivision.
   (b)   Connections to city mains.
      (1)   Corporation stops (taps) and wet connections to a City Main shall be inserted or installed only by Department employees. Waivers may be granted for T-connections in extenuating circumstances (i.e. connections to two (2) inch mains and two (2) or three (3) inch connections to a four (4) inch main).
      (2)   A two (2) or three (3) inch connection to any main four (4) inches in diameter or less shall be made by a T-Connection with an adjacent valve.
      (3)   Direct corporation stop connections (taps) shall not exceed one (1) inch in diameter for mains four (4) inches or less in diameter. Each one and one-half (1 1/2) inch corporation stop connection (tap) to such a main shall be made through a tapping saddle, as directed by the Department. The tapping saddle is to be provided and set by the Licensed Master Plumber.
      (4)   Direct corporation stop connections (taps) shall not exceed one and one-half (1 1/2) inches in diameter for six (6) inch mains. Larger connections to mains of this size shall be wet connections.
      (5)   Direct corporation stop connections (taps) shall not exceed two (2) inches in diameter for all mains larger than six (6) inches in diameter. All connections larger than two (2) inches shall be wet connections.
      (6)   Tapping saddles shall be provided by the Licensed Master Plumber whenever, in the opinion of the Department, a pipe to be tapped lacks sufficient wall thickness to securely hold the corporation stop (tap).
   (c)   Spacing of corporations stops (taps) and wet connections.
      (1)   No corporation stop (tap) or wet connection shall be inserted on a fitting or within twenty-four (24) inches of a hub, fitting, hydrant branch, dead end, etc.
      (2)   The minimum spacing interval for corporation stops (taps) and wet connections shall be twelve (12) inches for both three quarter (3/4) inch and one (1) inch corporation stops (taps), and eighteen (18) inches for one and one-half (1 1/2) and two (2) inch corporation stops (taps) and wet connections.
      (3)   No corporation stop (tap) or wet connection shall be installed below the horizontal diameter of the main.
   (d)   Location of corporation stops (taps) and wet connections. Water main corporation stops (taps) or wet connections shall be installed in front of the property to be supplied with water. All old taps or wet connections shall be plugged or destroyed prior to the installation of the new tap or wet connection, unless interruption of service to building occupants dictates that installation of the new tap or wet connection be completed prior to plugging or destroying the old tap or wet connection.
   (e)   Charges for corporation stops (taps) and wet connections. The charges for the installation of a corporation stop (tap) or a wet connection shall be as fixed by the New York City Water Board Water and Wastewater Rate Schedule.
   (f)   Permits at work site. Permits for corporation stops (taps), wet connections and plugs shall be displayed at the work site.
   (g)   Plugs. If an approved excavation for the removal or destruction of a single corporation stop (tap) reveals that the service connection is supplied by two (2) or more corporation stops (taps), the Licensed Master Plumber making the excavation must plug or destroy the additional corporation stops (taps). The Department will make its records relative to the location of any corporation stop (tap) to be plugged or destroyed available to the licensed plumber. The Licensed Master Plumber shall be solely responsible for locating the corporation stop (tap). A separate permit will be required for each corporation stop (tap) destroyed.
   (h)   Destruction of wet connections, corporation stops (taps) and three-way connections.
      (1)   Destruction of a wet connection shall be performed by the Licensed Master Plumber engaged by the owner or the owner's duly authorized representative. The valve shall be closed, the stuffing box gland thoroughly tightened, the valve stem cut off flush with the stuffing box gland, the service pipe disconnected, and a plug inserted in the outlet end of the valve. The plug and wet connection valve shall be anchored to the main as directed by the Department.
      (2)   A screw corporation stop (tap) shall be destroyed by removing a diagonal portion of the corporation stop thread. The corporation stop (tap) shall be closed, and the service pipe shall be disconnected. A driven corporation stop (tap) shall be removed and replaced with a screw plug, unless otherwise authorized by the Department.
      (3)   All corporation stops (taps) and wet connections which are destroyed shall have the service pipes disconnected, the curb box (if any) removed, and a portion of the service pipe at the entry to the building removed.
      (4)   When a corporation stop (tap) or wet connection has been shut off and the service pipe connected thereto is not to be used, the Licensed Master Plumber shall take the necessary steps to plug the corporation stop (tap), as outlined above.
      (5)   Three-way connections to be abandoned must have all piping disconnected and removed from the branch hub of the three-way, and an approved plug inserted into the hub. The plug must be anchored to the main as directed by the Department. All work must be done by a Licensed Master Plumber, and the permit holder must pay all costs associated with shutting the main.
   (i)   Use of tap location electrical indicator. When a building is to be demolished and the Tap Location Electrical Indicator Permit has been obtained, the Department will assist a Licensed Master Plumber in locating a tap through the use of an electrical indicator. If the indicator fails to locate the tap within five (5) feet of the expected location, the Licensed Master Plumber will be relieved of the obligation to plug and destroy the tap. No refund or credit of the permit fee will be granted if the indicator fails to locate the tap.
   (j)   Sizes of corporation stops (taps) and services pipes. The size of the corporation stop (tap) and service pipe to supply a premise shall be determined by the water demand load (gpm) of the premises, as determined by fixture units. In premises used for commercial and industrial purposes, where it is not feasible to determine the size of the tap and service pipe as indicated above, these sizes shall be determined solely by the water demand load (gpm) of the premises. (Tables for determining the appropriate sizes of taps and service pipes are found in Appendix Tables #1, #2 and #3.) The minimum tap shall be three quarter (3/4) inch, and the service pipe shall be at least one (1) inch in diameter. Unless otherwise approved by the Department, all taps shall be the same size as their corresponding service pipes and the goosenecks required by 15 RCNY § 20-03(n) shall be the same size as the service pipes.
   (k)   Fire connections and supply.
      (1)   Fire connections. The Department of Buildings shall determine the size and type of all fire water service connections to be installed. The size of corporation stops (taps) or wet connections for fire service connections shall be subject to the approval of the Department.
      (2)   Combined service connections/dual fire and domestic service connections. A connection for combined purposes may be made from either a fire service connection or a domestic service connection, only upon approval of the Department of Buildings. For such installations, valve(s) and meter(s) must be installed as required by 15 RCNY § 20-05.
      (3)   Prohibitions. Fire service connections shall not be cross-connected with any system of piping except as described in 15 RCNY § 20-02(k)(2), in accordance with the approved water system by the Department.
   (l)   Appointments for tapping, wet connections, and inspections.
      (1)   The Licensed Master Plumber shall provide the Department with advance notification of the requested corporation stop (tap) or wet connection installation date.
      (2)   An inspection shall also be requested by the Licensed Master Plumber before backfill is placed on new or repaired service pipes.
      (3)   The Department shall schedule corporation stop (tap) and wet connection installations during business hours, for the next available date.
   (m)   Rescheduling of corporation stop (tap), wet connection installation or service pipe inspection.
      (1)   When a permit holder fails to provide a safe and adequately sized excavation for installation of a corporation stop (tap) or wet connection on the date and time for which an appointment has been scheduled, the installation will not be made and the permit holder will be required to schedule a new appointment.
      (2)   When a permit holder fails to have a completed service connection installation or plug ready for inspection on the date and time for which an inspection has been scheduled, the permit holder will be required to schedule a new appointment.
      (3)   If a permit holder must leave an excavation open for a subsequent corporation stop (tap)/ wet connection or service connection inspection, the excavation must be made safe, in accordance with DOT requirements.
   (n)   Size of excavation. Sizes of excavations for wet connections and corporation stops (taps) shall be in accordance with the requirements of Appendix Table #4. If subsurface conditions prevent a plumber from making an excavation of the dimensions indicated therein, the plumber shall immediately notify the Department. The Department has the discretion to determine whether the dimensions should be changed, and what the new dimensions for the excavation shall be. All excavations shall be made safe by sheeting and bracing, where necessary, and shall conform with all applicable laws, rules and regulations.
   (o)   Driven corporation stops (taps). Where a drive corporation stop (tap) is uncovered, it must be maintained and protected. If a driven corporation stop (tap) is disturbed, it must be replaced with a screw corporation stop.
   (p)   Service pipe leak.
      (1)   Upon discovery of a leaking service pipe, the Department will shut the corporation stop (tap) or wet connection unless it determines that there is no immediate threat to life or property. When there is no immediate threat to life or property, a Three-Day Notice to Repair will be served upon the owner or occupant of the premises. If the notice is not complied with, the Department will shut the corporation stop (tap) or wet connection.
      (2)   When the corporation stop (tap) or wet connection is shut off by the Department, the owner/occupant must engage a Licensed Master Plumber to assume responsibility for the street excavation and make the necessary repairs. If the owner/occupant fails to engage a Licensed Master Plumber, the corporation stop (tap) or wet connection will remain closed, the excavation will be backfilled, and the street will be properly restored.
   (q)   Shut-off of tap by licensed master plumber. A Licensed Master Plumber must secure a permit to open or shut a tap controlling a service connection to a City water main for any repair, replacement or installation. If it is necessary to shut off the water main while repairing, replacing or installing a service connection, the Licensed Master Plumber must immediately notify the Department. The shut off must be made only by the Department, and the permit holder must pay all costs associated with shutting off the main. If a property is vacant and sealed longer than one year, the property owner must have the tap destroyed or plugged and the service line plugged. If the property owner fails to take this action, the Department may perform the work upon written notice to the property owner at the mailing address on file with the Department and assess the cost to the property owner.
(Amended City Record 7/26/2021, eff. 8/25/2021)
§ 20-03 Water Service Pipes.
   (a)   Advance conceptual design approval.
      (1)   A Licensed Professional Engineer, Registered Architect or Licensed Master Plumber may obtain advance conceptual design approval for corporation stops (taps), wet connections, service connections or relays by submitting a conceptual design drawing to the Department and paying the required fee. Information on the related water demand, existing service material, length of service connection, proposed size of the corporation stop (tap)/ wet connection, type of service connection and fire sprinkler and/or standpipe systems to be utilized must also be provided.
      (2)   The advance review and approval of a conceptual design may be the basis for a permit application for a period of two (2) years.
      (3)   Prior to the expiration of an advance conceptual design approval, the Department may extend the approval for an additional sixty (60) days upon receipt of a written request for an extension.
   (b)   Internal water main approval.
      (1)   Design stage approval for internal water mains must be obtained from both the Department and the Department of Buildings. Approval for a meter must be obtained from the Department's Bureau of Customer Services and for Backflow Prevention Devices settings from the Department's Bureau of Water and Sewer Operations (Cross Connection Control Unit). Requests for approval must be made by a New York State-Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect.
      (2)   Internal water mains must have, in addition to any meters required by 15 RCNY § 20-05(a), approved hydrants and backflow prevention devices in a meter vault or above-ground enclosure ("hot box") installed inside the property within two (2) feet of the property line. After installation, such hydrants and backflow prevention devices will be owned, maintained and repaired by the property owner while meters at the property line will be owned, maintained, and repaired by the Department. The meter at the property line shall be used solely for monitoring purposes and any individual meters in the development shall be used for billing unless the tax lot contains only one building in which case the property line meter will be used for billing.
      (3)   Design stage approval to install and repair internal water mains will be issued under the following conditions:
         (i)   Owners of the internal water mains shall be responsible for their maintenance and repair.
         (ii)   Internal water mains and any connections thereto shall be installed and repaired only with design stage approval, and may be inspected by the Department.
         (iii)   Internal water mains shall be sized in accordance with the Department's sizing table (Table #3) or as approved by the Department of Buildings. Where fire hydrants are required, internal water mains shall be a minimum of eight (8) inches in diameter.
         (iv)   Internal water mains shall be controlled by a gate valve placed approximately two feet from the property line on the street side. A DOT-rated extension street box shall be placed over the gate valve. An additional gate valve and extension street box shall be installed for each three hundred (300) linear feet section of the water main and at each point where a lateral is connected to the water main.
         (v)   Taps and wet connections to internal water mains must be installed by the Department. Service connections must be installed by a New York City-Licensed Master Plumber with design stage approval to perform the work and must be inspected by the Department.
         (vi)   Internal water mains must be disinfected in accordance with American Water Works Association (AWWA) Standard C651-14 for disinfection of water mains, prior to being accepted for individual service connections or being placed into service. A water quality sample result acceptable to the Department must be obtained for internal water mains prior to placing them into service or issuing design stage approval for connection to such internal water mains.
         (vii)   Written approval from the Fire Department is required before the Department may issue design stage approval of internal water mains.
   (c)   Department of buildings approval.
      (1)   Evidence of prior Department of Buildings approval of service pipe size will be required before DEP approval of a permit application for:
         (i)   Any new corporation stop (tap), wet connection and/or service pipe installation which supplies water to a sprinkler, fire or standpipe system.
         (ii)   Any corporation stop (tap), wet connection and/or service pipe installation for a sprinkler, fire or standpipe system for a major renovation, or for any location where a new certificate of occupancy is required.
         (iii)   Any corporation stop (tap), wet connection and/or service pipe installation for a domestic water supply system to which fire sprinkler heads are connected.
         (iv)   Any corporation stop (tap) or wet connection installed in order to supply an internal water main.
      (2)   For premises that are not under the jurisdiction of the Department of Buildings, or where the owner/developer is exempt from obtaining Department of Buildings approval, a Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect may submit a letter to the Department that certifies that the corporation stop (tap), wet connection and service pipe are adequately sized, and will provide an adequate degree of fire protection and a sufficient supply of water for domestic purposes. This certification will be accepted by the Department in lieu of Department of Buildings approval for the purposes of processing a permit application.
   (d)   Sizing services.
      (1)   Acceptable sizes of corporation stops (taps), wet connections and service connections that provide domestic water supply shall be determined by the Department sizing tables. (See Appendix Tables #1, #2 and #3.) The minimum tap size shall be three-quarter (3/4) inch and the service connection shall be at least one (1) inch in diameter.
      (2)   Where the Department sizing tables indicate that a two (2) inch tap and a two and one half (2 1/2) inch service line are required, approval will also be granted for a two (2) inch tap and a three (3) inch service line.
      (3)   Where a Licensed Professional Engineer, Registered Architect, or Licensed Master Plumber proposes sizes of taps, wet connections, service pipes, or internal water mains using methods other than Department sizing tables, all calculations shall be submitted to the Department for review and approval.
   (e)   Department of buildings service pipe sizing. For service pipes that supply water to both domestic and fire protection systems, the service pipe size shall be the larger of the size determined by the Department of Buildings or the size as determined by the Department sizing tables. (See Appendix Tables #1, #2 and #3.)
   (f)   Materials for service pipes and fittings.
      (1)   New service pipes two (2) inches in diameter or less shall be brass pipe or copper tubing.
      (2)   Service pipes larger than two (2) inches in diameter shall either be brass or ductile iron, except that the above-ground portion of the service pipe, up to four (4) inches in diameter, may be Type K or Type L copper.
      (3)   Only new materials shall be used for service pipes.
      (4)   Service pipes shall be of uniform diameter and material unless otherwise approved by the Department.
      (5)   All service connections must conform to the most recent revision of the following standards, except that all service connections, corporation stops, tail pieces, nuts and other fittings must not have a lead content that exceeds 0.250%:
         (i)   New York City Plumbing Code section PC 605, except that above-ground, copper indoor service connection four (4) inches or smaller, including the meter setting and piping for any backflow prevention device, must be Type K or Type L copper.
         (ii)   For three (3) inch and four (4) inch diameter iron pipe: ANSI/AWWA C151/A21.51, Class 52, Standard for Ductile Iron Pipe, Centrifugally Cast, for Water or Other Liquids.
         (iii)   For greater than four (4) inch diameter pipe: ANSI/AWWA C151/A21.51, Class 56, Standard for Ductile-Iron Pipe, Centrifugally Cast, for Water or Other Liquids.
   (g)   Approved dimensions and weights. Pipe dimensions and weights shall be in accordance with Appendix Tables #5, #6 and #7. Ductile iron pipes shall be lined with a cement-mortar lining and coated with an asphaltic coating, in accordance with the latest revision of ANSI/AWWA C104/A21.4.
   (h)   Joints. Ductile iron piping must have mechanical or push on joints with field-lock gaskets. Rodding of fittings, when necessary, must be in accordance with NYC DEP Standard Sewer and Water Main Specifications (July 2014 or later editions).
   (i)   Mechanical and flare joints. Connections of existing lead service pipes to copper tubing or brass service pipes shall be made using either a compression coupling or an equivalent approved by the Department.
   (j)   House control valves. House control valves, which must be made of material similar to the corresponding service connections, must be gate OS&Y type with the exception of those between the sizes of three-quarter (3/4) inch and two (2) inches, which may be full port ball valves. The lead content of such valves must not exceed 0.25% as determined by current NSF International Standard/American National Standard NSF/ANSI 61. The house control valve must be placed on the service connection inside the building within two (2) feet of the building wall, and must be located where it is accessible at all times. All valves must be designed for a 150 psi minimum working pressure. For fire, sprinkler, and/or standpipe service connections, and for any service connection which supplies sprinkler heads, the house control valve must be an OS&Y Valve. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, for fire or combined service connections two (2) inches or smaller, the house control valve may be an OS&Y valve or a UL/FM-approved full-port ball valve approved by the Department of Buildings.
   (k)   Curb valves.
      (1)   Curb valves must be full port ball valves or non-rising stem gate valves designed for a minimum of 150 psi of working pressure.
      (2)   Curb valves must be included on all water service connections that supply all systems. All curb valves must be set in the service connection in the sidewalk area, and must be located eighteen (18) inches from the curb line or other such locations as may be approved by the Department.
      (3)   All curb valves shall be provided with a tar coated iron extension box with a cover which is flush with the sidewalk. Each curb valve larger than two (2) inches in diameter shall be equipped with an operating nut at least one and one quarter (1 1/4) inch square. Curb valves two (2) inches and smaller in diameter may be full port ball valves equipped with a quarter turn shutoff nut.
      (4)   The property owner shall protect the curb valve/box from any damage and shall promptly report in writing to the Department any circumstances that may adversely affect the operation of the curb valve.
   (l)   Straight service pipes. Service pipes shall be laid in a straight line at right angles to the street main, and shall extend from the corporation stop (tap) or wet connection to the main house control valve. Where conditions preclude such an installation, a Licensed Master Plumber shall submit a proposed alternate for review and approval.
   (m)   Gooseneck and offset swing joints on service pipe connections. Each brass or copper tubing service pipe must have at least three (3) feet of copper tubing formed in a gooseneck connection to the corporation stop (tap) and laid to the right hand facing the tap, as shown in Appendix Figure #2. Each brass service pipe with threaded joints shall be installed as shown in Appendix Figure #2. No offset swing joint shall be made for ductile iron connections. Swing joints and/or goosenecks shall be located at the corporation stop (tap) or wet connection, and may also be placed immediately outside a building laid to the right hand facing the building where the building is constructed on a pile foundation or other unyielding support.
   (n)   Service connection depth. All service connections must be installed at a depth of at least three and one-half (3 1/2) feet, no more than six (6) feet below ground, unless a written waiver is obtained from the Department. Where a service connection is installed with less than three and one-half (3 1/2) feet of cover, it must be insulated and protected in accordance with the requirements described in 15 RCNY § 20-03(y). A service connection must not be laid within six (6) inches of any other sub-surface structure, conduit or pipe. A service connection must not be laid directly below, and parallel within six (6) inches of any other sub-surface structure, conduit or pipe.
   (o)   Service in construction trench. Service connections laid in a construction trench must be adequately supported and protected from settlement (deflection).
   (p)   Service pipe in subway air vent. Where service pipes are installed through a subway vent or similar construction, the method of installation shall be as illustrated in Appendix Figure #4.
   (q)   Backfill. Backfill around and one foot over a service connection must be of clean earth, free of stones, and must be carefully tamped and compacted in accordance with the latest NYC DOT Standard Highway Specifications (2015 or later editions). The remainder of the backfill must be free of stones larger than three (3) inches in diameter, and must be satisfactorily compacted either by tamping, flushing or both. Where tunneling has been permitted, the backfilling of the tunnel portion must be well compacted with clean earth fill free of stones.
   (r)   Test of service connection. Each new or repaired service connection shall be subject to a pressure test performed under street main pressure. This test must be conducted by the Licensed Master Plumber in the presence of a Department inspector. All service connections and accessories must remain uncovered for the duration of the test for observance of leakage.
   (s)   Service connection repairs. A new service connection must be installed where more than one-half (1/2) of an existing service connection is in need of a repair or when any repairs are required and the existing service connection is lead, galvanized steel or galvanized iron. All repairs must conform with the standards described in this section.
   (t)   Service pipe damaged by electrolysis, galvanic action or other local conditions. When a service pipe has been damaged by electrolysis, galvanic action or other local conditions, it shall be repaired and protected against such damage in a manner approved by the Department.
   (u)   Thawing. Thawing of water service pipes shall be performed under permit only by Licensed Master Plumbers.
   (v)   Protection of service connection and house control valve. 
      (1)   The property owner, and not the Department, is responsible for:
         (i)   Preventing physical deterioration of the service, curb valve, house control valve or distribution pipe which may damage a meter or prevent its maintenance or replacement;
         (ii)   Repairing or replacing equipment, service or distribution piping to allow maintenance, proper operation or replacement of the meter; and
         (iii)   The maintenance of the service and distribution pipe and its associated fittings and equipment.
      (2)   The meter setting is the responsibility of the Department.
   (w)   Replacement of old service pipes upon establishment of new water service. If a tap or wet connection has been destroyed or shut off due to vacancy of a building, the service pipe must be replaced as part of any new tap or wet connection unless the existing service pipe is less than 40 years old, has a functioning curb valve and is neither lead, galvanized steel or galvanized iron.
   (x)   Installation of a meter on unmetered properties whenever a domestic service connection is replaced, repaired or relaid. Whenever a domestic or combined service connection for an unmetered property is installed, replaced, repaired or relaid, a water meter must be installed to cover the entire premises in accordance with 15 RCNY § 20-05. When the work is not performed under emergency conditions, DEP will indicate on the permit that the property is unmetered. When the service connection relay, repair or replacement occurs on an emergency basis, the Licensed Master Plumber may install a set of meter inlet and outlet valves and a spool piece of a length similar to the displacement meter for that size service if the Licensed Master Plumber does not have a meter available for installation at the time of the emergency visit.
   (y)   Insulation. Insulation, where required by 15 RCNY § 20-03(n), shall be cellular glass insulation manufactured in accordance with ASTM C552 "Standard Specification for Cellular Glass Thermal Insulation", where a quality system for manufacturing, inspecting and testing insulation is certified in accordance with the requirements of ISO 9002. The insulation shall be fabricated in half sections wherever possible. For large diameter piping where half sections are not practical, curved sidewall segments are preferred. Wherever possible, the insulation should be factory jacketed with a 70 mil thick self-sealing high polymer asphaltic membrane with an integral glass scrim and aluminized mylar film on the surface. Mastic finish shall be pitcote 300 or an asphalt cutback mastic. Reinforcing fabric shall be an open mesh polymer fabric with 6 x 5.5 mesh per inch configuration. Sealant shall be a nonsetting butyl sealant with a minimum 85% solids content. The Department shall maintain a list of approved insulation materials. Alternate materials may be submitted for approval by the Department.
(Amended City Record 7/26/2021, eff. 8/25/2021)
§ 20-04 Backflow Prevention Devices, Water Hammer Arresters, Pumps and Separation Valves.
   (a)   Backflow prevention devices. Air Gap, Reduced Pressure Zone Assemblies (RPZs), and Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVs) are approved backflow prevention devices (BFPs). Double Check Detector Assemblies (DCDAs) and Reduced Pressure Detector Assemblies (RPDAs), which are an outgrowth of DCVs, can be used only on the fire water service. BFPs must be installed to prevent possible backflow from a commercial property or dwelling unit into a City water main, private water main, or internal water main (see15 RCNY § 20-05(a)(2)(ii)). A property owner must install an approved BFP in every water service connection that has a potential or actual cross connection hazard, as determined by the Commissioner.
   (b)   Backflow prevention device requirements. Containment backflow prevention assemblies shall be installed on the service line upon entrance into the property, to address actual or potential hazards, as follows:
DEP Containment Requirement 
 
Degree of Hazard
Protection Required
Hazardous
Air Gap or Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly
Aesthetically Objectionable
Double Check Valve Assembly
Non-Hazardous with Hazardous Fixtures (large/chemically treated boilers, cooling towers, etc.)
Double Check Valve Assembly (provided that internal protective devices are installed for these hazardous fixtures in accordance with Department of Building requirements)
Non-Hazardous Facilities
Internal Plumbing Control
 
Subject to review by the Department, the degree of hazard shall be assessed by the property owner's New York State Licensed Professional Engineer, or Registered Architect in accordance with regulations established by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Refer to the latest Supplement to the NYSDOH Handbook for Cross Connection Control, as revised by DEP.
   (c)   Cross connection control reviews. A Cross Connection Control Review is required prior to approval of a permit application for installation of a corporation stop (tap) or wet connection that will be used to supply water to a property that poses a backflow hazard. A Cross Connection Control Review is also required prior to installation of a wet connection. Approval of Cross Connection submissions are for backflow prevention devices only and does not constitute approval of the meter setting or other aspects of the water service design. Cross Connection Control Reviews are valid for two (2) years from the date of approval.
   (d)   Installation of backflow prevention devices and initial testing requirements. 
      (1)   Where the Commissioner determines that a facility poses a potential or actual hazard to the City Water Supply, he or she must direct the property owner to install an approved backflow prevention device in the service connection.
      (2)   A Professional Engineer or Registered Architect must submit an application and installation plans for a backflow prevention device to the Department for approval to install a RPZ or a Double Check Valve Assembly along with the appropriate filing fee. After plan approval, a Licensed Master Plumber must submit an application to the Department of Buildings for a work permit to install a RPZ or a Double Check Valve Assembly. RPZs and Double Check Valve Assemblies must be installed in accordance with plans approved by the Department, and metering shall be permitted from the Department's Bureau of Customer Services, prior to work. A Professional Engineer or Registered Architect and a Licensed Master Plumber must inspect and certify that the completed installation conforms to the plans approved by the Department and is in proper working order by submitting an initial test report (From Gen 215-B) for each device to the Department within 30 days of testing the backflow prevention device.
      (3)   A property owner who fails to install a backflow prevention device as directed by the Commissioner or fails to submit an initial test report to the Department within 30 days of testing of the RPZs or Double Check Valve Assemblies is subject to the issuance of summonses, cease and desist orders, other civil and criminal actions and proceedings, and such fines, penalties and other enforcement measures as may be imposed pursuant to § 24-346 of the Administrative Code, including but not limited to the termination of the water supply to the property or to any portion thereof or a facility therein which the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings or the Commissioner may deem necessary to prevent or alleviate any hazard to the City Water Supply.
      (4)   The property owner must pay any fees which the New York City Water Board may establish and publish in the Water and Wastewater Rate Schedule in connection with the termination or restoration of Water service to the property owner.
   (e)   Backflow prevention device testing requirements after initial testing. 
      (1)   In addition to the initial test required in subdivision (d), each RPZ or Double Check Valve Assembly must be tested upon device repair or device replacement, at least once annually, and as otherwise required by the Building or Health Codes.
      (2)   Within 12 months of the date on which the initial test report is submitted, an annual test report certifying that the backflow prevention device is operating properly must be submitted to the Department. Every annual test report thereafter must be submitted within 12 months of the date the last annual test report was submitted.
      (3)   Failure of a property owner to provide an annual test report, or a test report otherwise required by this section, certifying that an existing backflow prevention device installed pursuant to this section or otherwise is properly operating is a violation of these rules and subjects the property owner to the issuance of a summons.
      (4)   Testing must be performed by a backflow preventer tester who is certified by the New York State Department of Health and employed by a Licensed Master Plumber.
      (5)   Any submitted RPZ or Double Check Valve Assembly test report must be complete originals. Initial test reports must include the Registered Architect or Professional Engineer stamp and the Licensed Master Plumber seal. Annual test reports must include the Licensed Master Plumber seal.
      (6)   Initial or annual test reports that do not show a properly working device will not be accepted by the Department. Defects in any device tested must be repaired within thirty (30) days, and the repair must be followed by a retest. Retest results must be submitted to the Department within thirty (30) days of completion of the repair.
      (7)   Test reports must be submitted as specified at the bottom of Form GEN215-B.
   (f)   Suspension of service due to backflow.
      (1)   Where a backflow is detected from premises into a City water main or a private water main, the water supply to the premises may be terminated by the Department.
      (2)   Prior to restoration of water service, a Licensed Master Plumber must certify to the Department that the backflow has been eliminated, and an approved backflow prevention device has been installed.
      (3)   The customer shall pay any fees that the New York City Water Board may establish in connection with the termination or restoration of water service to the customer.
   (g)   Water hammer arresters. Where flushometers, suction tanks, other fixtures or piping are equipped with quick closing valves and are supplied by direct street pressure, an approved water hammer arrester shall be installed in the service pipe two (2) feet downstream of the meter setting or as required by the New York City Plumbing Code.
   (h)   Suction tanks.
      (1)   Domestic water connections to premises with a pumped supply which exceeds 400 gpm (total) must be equipped with either a suction or a surge tank, as required by the Department of Buildings.
      (2)   Suction tanks shall have a capacity of 7,500 gallons if the total connected pump capacity is between 400 and 500 gpm, and 10,000 gallons if the total connected pump capacity is 501 gpm or more.
      (3)   For premises with a pumped supply greater than 400 gpm and more than one water service pipe, the pumped capacity shall not be divided among the multiple service pipes for the purpose of determining the need for a suction tank.
   (i)   Backflow prevention assembly decommission / swapping / removal. 
      (1)   Containment backflow prevention assemblies shall not be ineffective, by-passed, made inoperative, or removed without a prior approval from the Department.
      (2)   A property having no auxiliary (untreated) water system is eligible to decommission the containment RPZ assembly that may not be required by current DEP regulations and local codes provided that:
         (i)   A Professional Engineer or Registered Architect shall inspect the property owner/customer's plumbing system(s), to confirm that no cross-connections are present, and submit an elaborated decommission report and plans on the backflow prevention assembly will be physically replaced with proper containment that is deemed adequate and effective for the ongoing degree of associated hazard.
         (ii)   The premises shall be surveyed by the Department authorized inspectors to determine the presence and prevalence of potential hazards to ensure the water system protection is in accordance with the Program requirements.
      (3)   A prior approval of the Department shall be obtained before a containment BFP assembly is removed, by-passed, relocated, replaced (swapped) or other assembly substituted.
         (i)   Removal: The use of an assembly may be discontinued and removed from service upon presentation of sufficient evidence to the Department to verify that a health hazard no longer exists. A Professional Engineer or Registered Architect shall submit an exemption request for the containment backflow prevention assembly to the Department. A property owner who removes a backflow prevention assembly without the approval of the Department is in violation of these rules and is subject to the issuance of a summons.
         (ii)   Relocation: An assembly may be relocated following confirmation/approval by DEP that the relocation will continue to provide the required level of protection and satisfy the installation requirements. Testing and certification of the relocated assembly shall be required upon relocation.
         (iii)   Replacement (Swapping): An assembly may be removed for replacement (swapping) or repair provided that the water use is discontinued until the replaced assembly is installed or repair is completed and the assembly is returned to service. All replaced assemblies shall be commensurate with the degree of health hazard involved. Water use may be continued if the service connection is equipped with another backflow protection approved by the Department. Testing and certification of the replaced/repaired assembly shall be required upon replacement/repair. Lead-Free assembly shall be installed for the human domestic consumption.
(Amended City Record 7/26/2021, eff. 8/25/2021)
§ 20-05 Meters.
   (a)   Placement – General. 
      (1)   An approved water meter shall be installed wherever City water is supplied and for all wells or other water sources that discharge into the City sewer system, in new construction, upon replacement or repair of a service line in an unmetered property, or on a retrofit basis the rules of the New York City Water Board (15 RCNY 42, Appendix A (Part VII, § 1)). The Department may require installation of additional meters as a condition for certain New York City Water Board rate or billing programs.
      (2)   (i)   Each building must have one (1) meter on each service connection supplying the building set at the point of entry. However, the Department may issue a variance or approval allowing two (2) or more separate meters to serve residential and non-residential (or rate-eligible and ineligible) occupancies in the same building or lot to comply with a rate or billing program established by the New York City Water Board.
         (ii)   Properties with internal water mains must have a meter and backflow prevention devices in a vault or above-ground enclosure located at the property line at each connection to the city water system.
         (iii)   Unmetered properties with a lead or galvanized metal service pipe shall not be permitted to install a water meter except when accompanied with complete replacement of the lead or galvanized service line.
      (3)   Placement during building construction
         (i)   All water used in the construction of buildings 75 feet or six (6) or more stories in height shall be metered.
         (ii)   Prior to the commencement of actual building construction, a meter of proper size shall be installed on each tap or service pipe supplying the premises.
         (iii)   The meter shall be placed in an accessible location at a point to be designated by the Department.
         (iv)   The meter shall be close to the point of entry of the service pipe, and shall be enclosed in a vault or box of ample size and substantial construction which will provide adequate protection against damage or injury from frost or any other cause.
         (v)   Each meter shall remain in service throughout the entire period of building construction. If a different meter is to be used during operation of the completed building, a separate meter permit is required for that replacement.
         (vi)   Where the meter is inoperable, has not accurately measured the water supplied to the premises, or has not been maintained in good working order during the entire period of building operations, the charge for water consumed during building construction shall be established as provided by the New York City Water Board in accordance with the Water and Wastewater Rate Schedule.
      (4)   All water used in the construction of buildings less than six (6) stories in height shall either be metered or be supplied by a hydrant permitted in accordance with 15 RCNY § 20-08. If water used during construction is metered, the meter shall be placed as described in 15 RCNY § 20-05(a)(3). Permit applications for temporary water service during construction shall include the name and contact information for the Licensed Master Plumber or construction management company.
      (5)   Metering of fire service pipes and combined service pipes.
         (i)   Fire service connections: Fire service connections in premises supplied with City water must have an approved backflow prevention assembly. It can be either a double check detector or reduced pressure detector assemblies. Fire service connections of two-and-one-half (2 1/2) inches in diameter must be provided with valves, and fittings required for a three (3) inch service connection. Fire service connections supplying private hydrants must have fire service valves and fittings.
         (ii)   Service connections supplying both domestic and fire protection uses: DOB-approved combined services three inches (3") or larger in diameter must have either a single fire rate meter at the head of the service or, if separation between domestic and fire service piping branches occurs within sight of the head of the service, a meter approved for domestic service on the domestic service piping branch to domestic end uses and an approved backflow prevention assembly on the fire service piping branch serving fire protection system. Domestic services three inches (3") or larger in diameter with fire sprinkler heads take off must use a fire rate meter. Domestic services smaller than three inches (3") in diameter with fire sprinkler heads take off must have a meter approved by the Department. Pumped services to house tanks where the fire protection design is met by the volume of water in the house tank must use a turbine type or electronic type meter.
         (iii)   The use of water through meters or detector assemblies approved for fire sprinkler systems only is prohibited, except for fire suppression or the testing of the fire sprinkler system.
         (iv)   Inlet and outlet valves are not required for fire service meters or detector assemblies on combined service pipes, except for the building shut-off valve. A test tee must be provided for meter testing purposes on fire service meters. A test port shall not be placed on the bypass meter on a Detector Check Valve Assembly.
   (b)   Meter permits.
      (1)   No person shall set, reset, repair or disconnect a water meter used for Department billing purposes without having obtained a meter permit, except for sets, resets, repairs or disconnects done by the Department, its authorized agents or contractors. Applications for permits shall be made by a Licensed Master Plumber duly authorized by the customer; provided, however, that applications for permits to reset, repair or disconnect a water meter may be made by a meter repair company authorized by the Department.
      (2)   Within ten (10) business days following the completion of any work for which a meter permit has been issued, the permit, carrying: (i) a certification of the date of completion of the work, (ii) the final reading from the old meter (for replacements or repairs) and (iii) the meter manufacturer's accuracy test document for the new meter shall be returned to the Department. The Department may, in its discretion, grant an extension of the 10-day timeframe in which the permit must be returned, upon a submission by the permittee showing that there is a practical difficulty in complying with the 10-day timeframe and providing a timetable for return of the permit. A permit shall expire after 365 days for new construction work and after 30 days for meter replacements or first-time meter installations in existing buildings. If the work is to be performed after that time, the Licensed Master Plumber must apply for a permit extension before the original permit expires. [
      (3)   After acceptance by the Department of the meter work, indicated by installation of a seal, or after one year from the return of a completed permit with access to the property available for the Department to inspect the work, whichever comes first, such meters will be owned, maintained, repaired and read by the Department. If access to the property is not made available to the Department, a denial of access notice shall be issued to the property owner.
      (4)   Design approval for water meter installations shall be obtained from the Department's Bureau of Customer Services as required by Sections 603.3 and 603.5 of the New York City Plumbing Code. Approval of a backflow prevention design as required by 15 RCNY § 20-04 shall not constitute approval of the meter installation.
   (c)   Work on small meters.
      (1)   No person other than authorized Department personnel, its contractors or permit holders shall set, reset, repair or disconnect a water meter on service pipes of less than one and one-half (1 1/2) inch diameter.
      (2)   Meter testing or repair companies. A meter testing or repair company authorized by the Department may obtain permits to perform testing or repairs of water meters by demonstrating that it has detailed written testing or repair procedures that have been approved by the Department and a detailed written training program.
         (i)   A permit applicant's written procedures and written training programs must include, at a minimum:
            (a)   Meter accuracy testing and reporting of results, as specified in the most recent version of American Water Works Association (AWWA) Manual M6;
            (b)   Written procedures that reflect a detailed understanding of the application of different meter technologies to different buildings and plumbing systems; and
            (c)   Detailed written instructions for performing meter repairs, meter accuracy tests, and other inspection procedures.
         (ii)   A permittee shall annually submit to the Department documentary proof that any portable or bench test equipment has been tested and calibrated by a National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST)-certified lab or company, to confirm accurate operation of the testing equipment.
         (iii)   The Department reserves the right to withdraw its authorization if it finds that the meter testing or repair company is not abiding by the standards set forth in the work procedures approved by the Department.
   (d)   Approved water meters. Meters shall meet the following requirements:
      (1)   All water meters used for billing purposes must comply with applicable specifications of the most recent AWWA Standards for Water Meters, and/or be specifically tested and approved by the Department as to their accuracy, performance and construction. The Department shall maintain and regularly update a list of approved water meters, detector assemblies, pit meter equipment, meter attachments and meter-associated equipment.
      (2)   The following information shall be on all meters used for billing purposes:
         (i)   Size and model of meter;
         (ii)   Trade or brand name of meter; and,
         (iii)   Direction of flow.
      (3)   The serial number of the meter shall be imprinted on the case, meter body, or flange in a permanent manner and all meter serial numbers shall be unique for the manufacturer.
      (4)   All meters used for billing purposes shall read in cubic feet. Meters sized five-eighths (5/8), three-fourths (3/4), or one (1) inch shall have a remote read resolution of no more than one (1) cubic foot. Meters sized one-and-a-half (1 1/2) or two (2) inches shall have a remote read resolution of no more than ten (10) cubic feet. Meters three (3) inches and larger shall have a remote read resolution of no more than one hundred (100) cubic feet. Meter registers shall have an error rate, including any missed reads, of no more than 0.000150% on an annualized basis.
      (5)   All meters used for billing purposes shall be compatible with the Department's automatic meter reading system. Such compatibility shall be certified by the Department.
      (6)   Positive displacement meters 5/8" through 1 1/2" must conform to the most recent version of AWWA Standard C700. 2" positive displacement meters are not approved for use after January 1, 2021.
      (7)   All meters must have a main case composed of an alloy which does not have a lead content that exceeds current NSF/ANSI Standard 61/372 limits. Upon request by DEP the meter manufacturer must submit all documentation associated with its product's compliance with NSF 61/372.
      (8)   Meter manufacturers shall notify the Department at least thirty (30) days after any changes in design, serial numbering, or other matter that might affect the use of the water meter or billing processes.
      (9)   Any main meter case made of plastic or other non-metallic material shall be commercially recyclable or shall be recycled by the manufacturer or its agent. Any main meter case made of plastic shall have metallic threaded connections unless specifically approved by the Department for composite or plastic threads.
      (10)   Any meter that requires a battery other than for temporary backup power for proper operation shall be provided with a manufacturer's warranty at least equal to the claimed life of the battery, or ten years for meters one-and-a-half (1 1/2) inch and larger or 15 years for meters smaller than one-and-a-half (1 1/2) inch, whichever is longer.
      (11)   The manufacturer must provide each meter supplied to a distributor after January 1, 2020 with a removable barcode tag and sticker meeting the Department's Enhanced Barcode Specifications available on the DEP website.
      (12)   All meters installed in any pit or vault, or installed in the basement of a building lying in a designated floodplain, shall have factory, waterproof wiring connections and shall be rated by the manufacturer for submersion in water.
   (e)   Compound, turbine, electromagnetic, and single-jet meters.
      (1)   Meter Applications.
         (i)   Effective May 1, 2014, compound or dual-register meters may no longer be approved for use in new or replacement installations.
         (ii)   Horizontal turbine meters shall be used wherever water is supplied to roof tanks by pumps or to buildings by other pumped, constant flow application, and may be used in buildings with booster pumps or pressurized supply systems as long as such systems' minimum non-zero flow rate is greater than the low-flow end of the 98.5% AWWA operating range for the specific meter model.
         (iii)   Electromagnetic meters may be used in place of turbine meters where the flow rating of the pump does not exceed the high end of the published normal operating flow rate range for the electromagnetic meter.
         (iv)   Single-jet, electromagnetic, or other meters designed for variable flow rates must be used on services one-and-a-half (1 1/2) inch and larger in diameter and operating on street pressure, and may be used in buildings with booster pumps or pressurized system applications.
         (v)   Single-jet meters must be installed on a level horizontal plane +/- 10 degrees. Turbine, electromagnetic, and other meter types may be installed on an incline or vertical plane if a horizontal installation is not possible and the configuration is supported by the meter manufacturer's specifications. The meter register must always face outward for reading. Electromagnetic meters must be grounded according to the manufacturer's requirements and must not be located in the same room as a significant source of an electromagnetic field such as a motor generator.
      (2)   An approved flat plate or "Z" meter strainer shall be installed on all new or replacement turbine meter installations, unless the turbine meter is manufactured with an internal strainer. Such a strainer is not required for electromagnetic or single-jet meters, but its use is permitted.
      (3)   [Repealed.]
      (4)   [Repealed.]
   (f)   Used or repaired meters. No used or repaired meter shall be installed to cover a service pipe at the same or a different location unless it has been repaired, tested for accuracy, found to conform to AWWA new meter accuracy standards and has been approved by the Department.
   (g)   Sizing.
      (1)   A meter shall be restricted to a size and type that will insure accurate registration on the basis of the water requirements of the premises, or portion of the premises, to be metered. For residential premises, the permit applicant shall perform a fixture count and develop a peak flow estimate using Appendix Tables #1 and #2. The meter shall be sized according to Appendix Table #8. For non-residential premises, the flow rate shall be based on the analysis of a Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect. The meter shall be sized according to that flow rate and Appendix Table #8.
      (2)   A meter shall not be larger than the service pipe supplying the meter, the piping in the meter setting, or the water distribution piping in the building, unless specifically approved in writing by the Department or as noted in 15 RCNY § 20-05(a)(5) for two-and-one-half (2 1/2) inch fire services or combined services. If two meters both cover the calculated peak flow rate, the smaller of the two meters shall be used unless approved in writing by the Department. Unless a fixture count and flow analysis, as described in 15 RCNY § 20-05(g)(1), has been approved by the Department, a one- or two-family home with gravity-flush water closets shall not have a meter on a domestic service without fire sprinklers larger than three-quarters (3/4)) inch and three-, four-, five- and six-family homes shall not have a meter on a domestic service larger than one (1) inch. Exceptions to these requirements, and the use of Appendix Table #8 for meter sizing, will be considered by the Department only when a building's plumbing system uses only street water pressure and documented incoming water pressure is less than 35 psi for buildings four (4) through six (6) stories high, or less than 30 psi for buildings less than four (4) stories in height.
      (3)   The minimum size meter for new installations and replacements shall be five-eighths (5/8) inch.
      (4)   The appropriate low-flow range for compound meters varies with the manufacturer. The ranges of sizes in Appendix Table #8 refer to the high-flow side. The Department may require that a permit applicant provide a basis for using a compound meter instead of another type of meter. That justification must outweigh the higher maintenance and other operating costs to the Department of the compound meter.
   (h)   Tests. The permit applicant shall submit the manufacturer's meter accuracy test results to the Department at the time of permit application. The Department retains the right, in specific instances, to require that a new, used or repaired meter be sent to a designated Department facility for testing at the owner's expense.
   (i)   Settings. Notwithstanding any other provisions to the contrary, all meters shall be set or reset according to the following requirements:
      (1)   Meters shall be set as near as possible to the point of entry of the service pipe through the building or vault wall and shall be placed so that they may be easily inspected, maintained and replaced. Evaporative cooling tower meters or other meters used to calculate a wastewater allowance when located downstream of a billing meter shall be placed as close to the end use as practical. A property owner shall not erect or maintain any physical barrier that prevents access to, or repair or replacement of, the water meter.
         (i)   Displacement meters shall not be set beyond three (3) feet of the entry point without written approval from the Department.
         (ii)   Turbine and compound meters shall be set with straight sections of pipe as provided in Appendix Figures #7, #7A, #9, #9A, #10 and #10A. If pipe lengths cannot conform to those indicated in Appendix Figures #7, #7A, #9, #9A, #10 and #10A, a meter technology shall be used which does not require minimum straight pipe lengths. The Department shall identify such meter technologies in its list of approved meters. An approved meter strainer is required unless one is included in the meter design or in the case of single-jet or electromagnetic meters, is not required by the meter manufacturer.
      (2)   No fittings capable of a branch connection are permitted in the section of connection upstream of the meter or meter setter with the exception of an approved strainer. The strainer must be located immediately before the inlet side of the meter. The service connection between the point of entry and the meter setting must be kept visible. No fittings, devices, or equipment are permitted in the section of connection upstream or downstream of the meter that interferes with the required laminar flow through the meter, except as otherwise approved by the Department, Bureau of Customer Services.
      (3)   If conditions exist that prevent the setting of a meter in accordance with the above requirements, the meter may be set outside the building in a meter pit, vault or above-ground meter box (See 15 RCNY § 20-05(k)).
      (4)   Meter settings must have an inlet valve immediately upstream of the meter and any strainer, and an outlet valve downstream of the meter. For meters two (2) inches in size or smaller, the valves must be full-port ball valves. For meters larger than two (2) inches in size, the valves must be rising stem, resilient seated, and epoxy-coated gate valves. If a backflow prevention device is located after the meter setting and both the backflow prevention device and meter setting are located on the same floor of a building, then an outlet valve serving the meter setting may be placed immediately after the device. If a backflow prevention assembly is located after the meter setting, then an outlet valve shall be placed immediately after the assembly and the meter test tee.
         (i)   Except for meters two (2) inches or smaller where space constraints prevent any approved meter technology from being installed with an inlet valve, or as noted in 15 RCNY § 20-05(a)(5), a house control valve must not be used in lieu of a meter inlet valve.
         (ii)   On a dedicated fire service line, an approved backflow prevention assembly (DCDA or RPDA with by-pass meter) in conjunction with the building control valve are required. Additional valves are optional.
         (iii)   A plain tip test tee must be provided for meters 3/4" or 1" in diameter before the meter outlet valve or incorporated into the design of the meter outlet valve. For meters 1-1/2 inches in diameter, the test tee must be the same size as the meter. For meters 2 inches or larger than two (2) inches in diameter, the test tee must be two (2) inches. An exception shall be provided for installations using an outlet valve that incorporates an one-and-a-half (1 1/2) inch rather than two (2) inch test tee into the design of its two (2) inch outlet valve. Factory-fabricated setters five-eights (5/8) inch through two (2) inches must have test ports as described in paragraph 6 of this subdivision. Test port plugs on meter bodies must be drilled for seal wire. Test tees shall not be used as water supply connections. Where a meter is placed in a pit alongside a sewer trap, the meter test tee must be located outside of the pit in an accessible location.
      (5)   Connections must be made by coupling, union, flange union or approved compression fittings and bored for sealing with holes not less than three thirty-seconds (3/32) of an inch in diameter. Compression fittings are permitted for three quarter (3/4) inch through two (2) inch meters only. Unions, couplings or compression fittings that permit removal of the meter and/or setter without breaking the seal wire are prohibited. Grooved end mechanical pipe joining systems are not permitted between the meter inlet valve and the outlet side of the meter. If used on the service side of the house valve, such systems must be drilled for seal wire. In all other circumstances, pipe joining specifications must conform to the New York City Plumbing Code. All water meter settings of two (2) inches and smaller sizes must utilize valves and fittings constructed of bronze with a lead content that must not exceed current NSF/ANSI Standard 61 limits. Bolts, studs, nuts, screws and other external fastening devices used from the house valve through the meter outlet valve must be made of a bronze alloy or stainless steel conforming to AWWA standards, and must be designed for easy removal following lengthy service. Above-ground, indoor service connection, including the meter setting and any backflow prevention device, must comply with standards for water distribution pipe contained in the New York City Plumbing Code Section 604.
      (6)   Meter setters & resetters. Meter setters and resetters five-eighths inch (5/8) through two inch (2) shall conform to the following:
         (i)   Seamless copper tubing having a type K wall thickness in accordance with ASTM B 88 specifications shall be used for all prefabricated water meter setters. All bronze parts shall be an alloy with a lead content that shall not exceed 0.250%.
         (ii)   The internal waterway shall be equal to the meter size to be installed, i.e. one (1) inch meter = one (1) inch internal diameter.
         (iii)   The end of the copper tubing at the meter coupling for three quarter (3/4) inch and one (1) inch meters shall be spun and/or formed to produce a strong positive bearing surface on the full face of the gasket and meter spud.
         (iv)   Copper tubing arms shall be affixed to the setter body using leadless solder at the cup joint.
         (v)   All setters, valves and compression adapters shall be designed to ensure positive electrical bonding continuity with, or without, the meter being set, via an approved external method which can be confirmed visually.
         (vi)   All setters shall be designed to avoid any significant head loss.
         (vii)   An approved test port located between the meter and the outlet control valve shall be included in the design of all setters. The test port shall be capable of delivering flows from at least one quarter (1/4) to two (2) gpm, but no more than four (4) gpm.
      (7)   Above-ground, indoor service pipe, including the meter setting and any backflow prevention device shall be Type K or Type L copper, if copper is acceptable for that size service pipe.
      (8)   Valves. All new displacement type water meter settings must utilize full port ball valves for the inlet and outlet control of the meter. All valves must be furnished with handles for the manual operation of the valves without the need of a wrench. Other meter types must be installed with full port ball valves (through two (2) inch only) or gate type OS&Y valves for meters larger than two (2) inches.
      (9)   Meters shall be set as shown in Figures #7, #7A, #9, #9A, #10 and #10A.
      (10)   All meter settings shall contain a test tee or test valve downstream of the meter and before the outlet valve. The test tee/valve can be incorporated as part of the outlet valve design.
      (11)   Any connection to a test tee assembly or to any point ahead of a meter used for billing purposes is strictly forbidden.
      (12)   Electrical continuity. All settings shall be designed to ensure positive electrical continuity with, or without, the meter being set, via bronze grounding clamps with stainless steel screws and electrical bonding cables (#6 THHN-THWN) which can be confirmed visually, unless a pre-fabricated setter designed for electrical continuity is used or the water service is known not to be used as an electrical ground.
      (13)   Meters settings shall be provided with holes for running seal wire to be installed by the Department. The meter installation shall include either one-eighth (1/8) inch holes drilled in a bolt on each end flange, or an one-eighth (1/8) inch hole drilled in one or both flanges.
   (j)   By-pass.
      (1)   Unmetered by-passes around meters are prohibited. Properties that wish to avoid lengthy interruptions of water supply may install a metered by-pass or a set of two parallel meters, under permit and at their expense.
      (2)   If a by-pass is permitted by the Department, the installation shall conform to Appendix Figure #10 or #10A. The by-pass shall be configured so that the top case and interior meter can be removed for repairs or replacement.
      (3)   Properties that wish to avoid lengthy shutdowns related to replacement of large meters may install paired meters that can supply the building through one or the other meter on a service connection.
   (k)   Meter pit/meter box requirements. Meter pits shall be constructed in accordance with the following requirements:
      (1)   All meter electrical connections shall be factory sealed to be water proof.
      (2)   The Department shall maintain detailed specifications for three quarter (3/4) inch and one (1) inch pit meter installations and equipment including setters, enclosures and covers.
      (3)   Meter pits for meters less than 3".
         (i)   For meters less than three (3) inches, the enclosure shall be frost-proof and shall follow one of these alternate requirements:
            (a)   Thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride (PVC) conforming to ANSI/ASTM D 1785, Type I, Grade 1, seamless, extruded pipe with white interior. The enclosure shall be as uniform as commercially practicable in color, opacity, density and other physical properties. Thickness shall be at least one-half (1/2) inch.
            (b)   Polyethylene (PE) enclosures shall be constructed in accordance with the ANSI/ASTM D 2104 latest revision. The PE shall be of medium density. Polyethylene shall conform to all applicable sections of the latest edition of ASTM D 1598, and ASTM D 1599. Thickness shall be at least one-half (1/2) of an inch.
            (c)   A composite of polyester resin, fiberglass and calcium carbonate. The composite material shall consist of non-aggregate base materials using the bulk molded compound process or the thick molded compound process. The thickness shall be at least one-half (1/2) inch.
         (ii)   Covers and lids shall be constructed in accordance with the following requirements:
            (a)   Covers shall be of polymer concrete, heavy duty plastic, or other composite materials that allow transmission of an AMR signal and meet load requirements set by the department. The department shall publish a list of approved products and materials in its list of approved meters and equipment.
            (b)   Lids shall have a lifter worm lock with a standard waterworks pentagon nut constructed of bronze.
            (c)   Extra heavy lids and covers shall be used for driveway and sidewalk applications.
            (d)   For three quarter (3/4) inch and one (1) inch meter sets, covers shall fit on twenty (20) inch nominal I.D. meter vaults. Covers shall have thirteen and one-half (13 1/2) inch to fifteen (15) inch openings and lid sizes.
            (e)   For one and one-half (1 1/2) inch and two (2) inch meter sets, covers shall fit on thirty-six (36) inch nominal I.D. meter vaults. Covers shall have eighteen (18) inch to fifteen (15) inch openings and lid sizes.
      (4)   Meter vaults for meters 3" and larger. For meters three (3) inches in size and larger, a meter vault shall be constructed as follows (See Appendix Figures #11 through #17 for typical meter pit and vault installation details):
            (a)   Waterproof and frost proof and of sufficient size to permit easy access to all portions of the meter and connections with at least one (1) foot clearance on each side of meter.
            (b)   In conformance with any requirements of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
            (c)   Pits less than four (4) feet in depth shall not be less than two feet, six inches (2'6") wide and three feet, six inches (3'6") long. Pits less than four (4) feet in depth shall be provided with a hinged cover not to exceed forty (40) pounds in weight, with suitable handle and so constructed as to permit the uncovering of entire pit, or a circular cover as described above in (ii) provided that there is sufficient clearance to remove and replace the meter.
            (d)   Pits four (4) feet or more in depth shall be provided with an access opening of at least two feet, six inches (2'6") square or at least thirty (30) inches in diameter, but of sufficient size to remove and replace the meter. If the access opening is square, the cover of such opening shall be hinged and shall be provided with a suitable handle. Doors exceeding forty (40) pounds in weight shall be counter balanced. Approved composite lids or covers for vaults are available from the Department.
            (e)   Pits three (3) feet or more in depth shall be provided with permanent steps or a metal ladder.
            (f)   Pits containing sewer traps shall be provided with an air vent.
      (5)   Meter boxes (above-ground enclosure).
         (i)   The enclosure must be capable of housing the water meter with all required valves, strainer and above-ground accessories. It must have easy access for testing and maintenance including at least one (1) foot, clearance around the meter, piping and valves. The boxes must have lockable access doors or lids to prevent theft or vandalism. The enclosure must be anchored to a concrete base of eight (8) inches minimum for meters one and one-half (1 1/2) inches or larger, and four (4) inches for meters less than one and one-half (1 1/2) inches. The enclosure must have an approved remote meter reading receptacle mounted on the exterior.
         (ii)   The enclosure shall be a minimum of:
            (a)   Eighteen (18) gauge reinforced aluminum, or;
            (b)   Extra heavy duty fiberglass reinforced polyester with high-gloss gelcoat finish, or;
            (c)   Twelve (12) gauge steel finished with three coats of baked enamel.
         (iii)   The enclosure shall be insulated with a material in addition to the enclosure itself which has a thermal resistance ("R-value") of at least 8.0.
         (iv)   The enclosure shall have a thermostatically-controlled heat source mounted to the interior wall for freeze protection down to -10°F.
   (l)   Metering condominium and homeowners' association developments.
      (1)   An individual water meter to be read by the Department shall be installed for each separately-owned dwelling unit in all new condominium and homeowners' associations structures of three (3) stories or less when each such unit is supplied with hot water and space heat by its own separate domestic hot water heater and space heating system, and not by a common water heater or space heater. If fire protection sprinklers are present they shall be supplied by a separate dedicated service pipe. Any hose bib or irrigation supply shall be connected to one of the unit's metered branches. Such individual water meters shall be located in a common location immediately after the point of entry in each structure, with each meter clearly labeled as to the unit it supplies. MTUs shall be mounted on the exterior walls of the building. New and existing condominiums and homeowners' associations structures of six (6) stories or fewer with in-unit hot water heaters and space heating systems may apply to install individual water meters at their cost and in the same manner and governed by the same conditions as meters for new condominiums and homeowners' associations structures of three (3) stories or fewer, unless the work is physically impractical or the owners do not agree to individual water meters or required MTU placement. Such existing structures requesting individual water meters shall not be in arrears with their water or sewer accounts or payment agreements at the time of application to the Department. The Department shall set specific written requirements for such applications. For all cases, if there are building common end uses, such as but not limited to irrigation and heating boilers, then individual water meters in the name of the condominium or homeowners' association shall be installed for those uses. Properties served by internal water mains shall be metered as specified in 15 RCNY § 20-05(a)(ii).
      (2)   Condominiums and homeowners' associations that cannot be individually metered as described in 15 RCNY § 20-05(l)(1) shall have a meter at the point of entry of the water service for the building or buildings, except that those properties served by internal water mains shall be metered as specified in 15 RCNY § 20-05(a)(ii).
      (3)   Each individual unit/meter shall have its own account under the "75XX" joint condominium lot.
   (m)   Removal.
      (1)   If a meter has been disconnected without securing a permit as per 15 RCNY § 20-05(b) and 15 RCNY § 20-05(c), it shall not be reset but shall be replaced with a new meter approved by the Department.
      (2)   When a tap or wet connection is destroyed on a metered service pipe (See 15 RCNY § 20-02(g) and 15 RCNY § 20-02(h)), the meter shall be removed under permit and returned to the Department.
      (3)   If a meter is moved, a permit shall be obtained to report the new location. Relocation of a meter from an outdoor pit to an indoor location shall include filling the pit with clean sand and restoring the surface in kind.
   (n)   Seals. A seal placed by the Department for the protection of any meter, valve, fitting or other water connection shall not be tampered with or defaced. The seal shall not be broken except after securing a permit from the Department. Breaking the seal without such a permit shall be a violation, except for emergency repairs as described in 15 RCNY § 20-01(f). The Department may also remove the meter for testing and resetting or replacement. The customer shall be responsible for safeguarding and protecting the seal and the meter. Application of a seal on a new or replacement meter shall denote approval by the Department.
   (o)   Meter shut-off. Where water is obtained through more than one (1) meter, and where tests indicate accurate registration is not being obtained by reason of the divided delivery of water, the Department may, at its discretion, shut off and seal the meter(s) to ensure accuracy of registration.
   (p)   Protection of meters and settings.
      (1)   The property owner shall protect the meter, setting, AMR transmitter, wiring and remote against physical damage, freezing conditions and abuse. The property owner shall be responsible for any break or disconnection of wire within the building. The property owner is responsible for preventing physical deterioration or other conditions of the service pipe which may damage a meter or prevent its maintenance or replacement. In such cases the owner shall be responsible for repairing or replacing equipment, service piping or any other physical barriers, including asbestos insulation, needed to allow maintenance, proper operation or replacement of the meter.
      (2)   The property owner is prohibited from relocating the remote receptacle or AMR transmitter except upon securing a permit from the Department.
      (3)   The property owner's installation of branch meters or submeters for the owner's use shall not interfere with the City's meter setting.
   (q)   Encoding registers. When used, all encoder-type remote registration systems must comply with all applicable requirements of AWWA Standard C707 and the following requirements:
      (1)   The register must encode at least the six (6) most significant digits which will be read from the remote receptacle.
      (2)   The unit must employ a leak detection indicator, gpm display or a test sweep hand on the face of the meter register.
      (3)   Registers must read in cubic feet.
      (4)   The assembly must have a tamper resistant locking device as well as a provision for seal wire, or other method approved by the Department.
      (5)   The data stream must be, or be convertible to, ASCII format, and is to be capable of interfacing directly to a Department-approved automatic meter reading device.
      (6)   All encoder registration systems must be capable of transmitting the data for a minimum distance of three hundred (300) feet utilizing solid twenty-two (22) gauge minimum non-shielded copper cable between the register and the remote receptacle or interface device.
      (7)   All encoding registers must be subject to the approval of the Department.
      (8)   The register must be capable of being read through a remote receptacle, and /or an automatic meter reading system.
      (9)   All registers must be installed with wire to a AMR transmitter with all three wires properly connected at the register head.
   (r)   Remote receptacles and AMR transmitters ("MTU").
      (1)   Temporary use of remote receptacles or pads. The licensed plumber performing the meter installation or replacement shall run wire from the meter register to an exterior wall. If the licensed plumber installs a meter manufacturer's remote receptacle or pad for temporary use, installation shall be in a location consistent with the specifications in paragraph 2 for placement of an MTU until the Department replaces the remote receptacle or pad with an MTU. Any splices of wire running from the meter register to the remote receptacle or pad must be sealed with gel caps. All three of the wire connections at the meter register must be connected to wires running to the remote receptacle or pad, even if only two wires are connected at the remote receptacle or pad. The third wire shall be tucked behind the remote pad.
      (2)   Placement of MTU or temporary remote receptacle. Placement of the MTU shall comply with the following guidelines:
         (i)   Location. The MTU shall be located on the front or side exterior of the building, unless such building and an immediately adjacent building have aluminum siding or other signal reflective material in which case the MTU shall be located on the front exterior only. The MTU must be located above ground level, and must not be placed behind permanently-sited large metal objects. All wire splices shall be sealed with gel caps. For apartment or office buildings with glass, marble or other similar facades, a smaller optional remote antenna MTU is available from the Department, or the MTU may be located inside a building if transmissions can be received by the AMR system. The location of the MTU must be indicated in the meter permit as returned to the Department.
            For all underground meter installations, the remote pad shall be mounted in the meter pit lid or some support or structure immediately adjacent to the pit, to allow meter readings without opening the lid.
         (ii)   Height. The receptacle shall be set at forty-two (42) inches above ground, but may be set between twelve (12) and sixty (60) inches if circumstances preclude a better height. Receptacles may be installed beyond these limits only when approved in writing by the Department.
      (3)   AMR transmitter. AMR radio transmitters (MTUs) for domestic meters shall be mounted on the exterior surface of an exterior building wall above ground level, unless otherwise specified by the Department. AMR radio transmitters for evaporative cooling tower makeup water meters or other meters located on the upper floors of a building shall be mounted on the exterior of the building wall, at a roof parapet or other location to permit effective transmission of the radio signal. Meters placed in outdoor pits or vaults shall have MTUs mounted on the underside of approved composite plastic pit lids or covers available from the Department.
   (s)   Meter attachments.
      (1)   No customer shall attach any device to the water meter unless such device has been submitted to, and approved by, the Department.
      (2)   No device submitted for approval shall interfere with or affect the operation, inspection or reading of the meter in any way.
      (3)   Any device approved is solely the responsibility of the property owner unless it is installed by the Department. The Department is not liable for any maintenance or replacement of any approved attachments to the meter, and shall not perform any additional steps to salvage the devices should the meter require replacement. Meter attachments are not recognized as a source of data for billing purposes. A technical representative of a meter attachment manufacturer may be a permit holder for Meter Attachment permits only.
      (4)   The Department shall publish a list of approved meter attachments as part of its list of Approved Meters.
   (t)   Ownership of water meters. All water meters used for billing purposes are the property of the Department. At the time of replacement or removal, one or more photographs of the meter must be provided to the Department that must include the serial number of the meter and the final meter read. The Department may, upon written request prior to the removal or replacement of a meter, require the return of a meter to the Department for testing or other purposes. Failure to 1) provide photographs of a meter; and 2) return a meter to the Department when requested by the Department, at the time of replacement or removal is a violation of this rule.
(Amended City Record 7/26/2021, eff. 8/25/2021; amended City Record 1/18/2023, eff. 2/17/2023) [
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