Chapter 13.04 WATER SYSTEM

The rules and regulations set forth in this chapter and such rules and regulations as may from time to time be adopted by the city council are established for fixing, regulating and controlling the use and price of water supplied by the city. (Ord. 666 § 1, 1982).

13.04.020 Permit application – Minimum deposit.

All applications for permits for the use of water shall be made to the public works director. Such application shall be made by the owner of the property to which the water is to be furnished. The applicant shall state fully and truly the purposes for which the water may be required, and must agree to conform to the rules and regulations thereof that may be established from time to time as conditions for the use of water. The applicant shall be required to pay a nonrefundable permit fee to the finance director-treasurer.

The current fee schedule relating to this section of the Fife Municipal Code is available at Fife City Hall and at the city of Fife’s website: www.cityoffife.org. (Ord. 1859 § 50, 2014; Ord. 1783 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1751 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1270 § 1, 1997; Ord. 666 § 2, 1982).

13.04.030 Water accounts.

All accounts for water shall be kept in the name of the property owner and all charges shall be made against the property as well as the owner thereof; and no change of ownership or occupancy shall affect the application of this section. It shall be the responsibility of the owner to notify the city upon change of ownership. (Ord. 666 § 3, 1982).

13.04.040 Water bills – When due – Penalty.

The billing date shall be the last calendar day of February, April, June, August, October, and December of each year. Water bills are due and payable on the last calendar day of the month following the applicable billing date (“due date”). A water bill is considered delinquent if not paid in full by the applicable due date. A penalty of $10.00, or 10 percent of the water bill amount, whichever is greater, shall be assessed on all delinquent accounts on the fifth calendar day after the account becomes delinquent (“penalty date”). However, when the penalty date is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the penalty shall not be assessed if the full payment is received by the next succeeding business day. The finance director is authorized to waive all or any portion of the penalties if the finance director determines that late payment was the result of excusable neglect or extreme hardship. (Ord. 2012 § 1, 2019; Ord. 1578-06 § 1, 2006; Ord. 666 § 4, 1982).

13.04.050 Delinquent accounts – Shutoff and reconnect fees.

A. The water service shall be discontinued if the water bill is not paid in full within 10 calendar days after the penalty date.

B. If the water service is discontinued, then before service will be reconnected, the delinquent water bill, outstanding penalties and the reconnection fee must be paid in full.

C. The reconnection fee shall be paid under the following circumstances:

1. For reconnection during regular business hours, on the same business day as payment received, if payment is received by 3:00 p.m., and on the next business day if payment is received after 3:00 p.m.;

2. For reconnection other than during hours as described in subsection (A) of this section;

3. Reconnect for unauthorized turn-on by other than employees of the city shall be billed at the actual cost incurred.

The current fee schedule relating to this section of the Fife Municipal Code is available at Fife City Hall and at the city of Fife’s website: www.cityoffife.org. (Ord. 1783 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1578-06 § 2, 2006; Ord. 666 § 5, 1982).

13.04.060 Connection with other water supply.

No service connection shall be allowed from the city mains to any premises supplied by water from any other source, unless special permission is given by the public works director, which special permission may be terminated at any time if, in the judgment of the public works director, the public interests will be best served. (Ord. 1859 § 51, 2014; Ord. 666 § 6, 1982).

13.04.070 Connections outside of city limits.

A. Whenever any one or more persons outside the corporate limits of the city, not already furnished with water by the city, desire the system to be extended so as to furnish any premises with water which are not already connected with the system, such person or persons shall apply to the city to have such water service so extended. Such application shall designate the premises to be supplied and the number of services desired, together with the plans and specifications for the extension. Should such permits be granted, the applicants shall, at their own expense, install all necessary mains or pipes according to the specifications of the city, and furnish or perform all labor, and shall also, at their own expense, install a separate meter for each premises to be supplied for such extension. Before connecting such pipe with the municipal water system, the property owner to be supplied by such extension shall execute a bill of sale to the city for the water main and appurtenances together with an easement, if required by the city, for the water main and appurtenances. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, all rules and regulations of this chapter shall govern the use of water for such extension.

B. The connection charges outside the corporate limits of the city shall include permit fees, connection charges, inspection fees, and shall be at the same rates, fees and charges as within the corporate limits of the city plus a 50 percent surcharge. (Ord. 926 § 1, 1987; Ord. 873 § 1, 1986; Ord. 666 § 7, 1982).

13.04.080 Connections within city limits.

Whenever there is need for extension, repair or replacement of distribution mains, the following methods are available:

A. Formation of a local improvement district as set forth in the Revised Code of Washington;

B. Private funding with the option of latecomer agreement;

C. Other funding methods allowed by law and approved by the city council;

D. Before connecting such pipe with the municipal water system, the property owner to be supplied by such extension shall execute a bill of sale to the city for the water main and appurtenances together with an easement, if required by the city, for the water main and appurtenances;

E. The connection charges shall include assessments in lieu of LID, charges under latecomer agreements, permit fees, connection charges, inspection fees and any additional fees imposed by the city. (Ord. 873 § 2, 1986; Ord. 666 § 8, 1982).

13.04.090 Installation and connection charges.

A. A permit will be issued for the use of water after the connection charge as set forth in the current fee schedule is paid.

B. Any service in which the meter is over one and one-half inches in size shall be charged the actual cost of the time and materials required for installation of the service, plus 15 percent to cover the city’s overhead.

C. All new construction, residential and commercial, on property which is located within 200 feet of a water main of the city shall be required to extend the water main to and across the entire frontage of their property and connect to the city water system prior to the occupancy of the building. No new wells except municipal wells shall be constructed and no alterations to existing wells except municipal wells shall be permitted on properties that can be served within 200 feet of a water main of the city or are now served by the city water system.

D. Sprinkler connections shall be constructed at the property owner’s expense, subject to approval and inspection by the public works department.

E. Water connection charges may be reduced, with proper approval of the community development director or designee, if the connection is constructed and paid for by the property owner. The public works department must review plans of proposed connection, and inspect and approve the connection prior to the service being activated. A connection/engineering review fee shall be paid at the time of application. All inspection fees shall be as set forth in the current fee schedule; a minimum of one hour shall be charged.

The current fee schedule relating to this section of the Fife Municipal Code is available at Fife City Hall and at the city of Fife’s website: www.cityoffife.org.

F. Any person, firm or corporation desiring to construct any new or replacement water service systems, water mains or side water lines which are to be constructed by anyone other than the city shall first submit a plan for said construction to the public works department. To assure that an as-built plan is submitted for the city records and approved by the public works department, the water meter shall be secured in the off position and remain that way until the as-built plan is received and approved. (Ord. 1859 § 52, 2014; Ord. 1783 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1777 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1467 § 1, 2002; Ord. 1376 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1270 § 3, 1997; Ord. 778 § 1, 1984; Ord. 678 § 1, 1982; Ord. 666 § 9, 1982).

13.04.095 Water general facility charges.

A. Prior to connecting to the city’s water system, the property owner shall pay, in addition to other applicable charges, a general facility charge of $5,266 per equivalent residential unit (ERU).

B. An ERU for this purpose is 230 gallons per day for nonresidential connections. An ERU for residential connections is one single-family house, apartment unit, condominium unit, or townhouse unit.

C. If after connection of a nonresidential service the actual water usage has increased or the property use expanded so that there is a greater number of ERUs being used on the property than for which the general facility charge was paid, the property owner shall pay to the city an additional general facility charge based upon the new or expanded use. The additional general facility charge shall be based upon the general facility charge rate in effect at the time the increased use is requested and/or detected, whichever first occurs. Except that in the case of those property owners who have paid for a period of five years for base usage rates for two two-inch meters or one three-inch or larger meter (excluding irrigation meters), and for associated water usage, the general facilities charge rate shall be 60 percent of the regular rate.

D. A credit against the general facility charge may be applied for those property owners that pay final assessments through a local improvement district formed by the city council where such local improvement district is formed to finance the construction of any of the improvements that are a basis for calculating the value of the general facility charge. The credit shall be the smaller of the following:

1. The portion of the final assessments, not including interest, that are directly applicable to the construction of the improvements that are a basis for the value of the general facility charge; or

2. That proportionate amount of the general facility charge that is attributable to the water facilities constructed in the local improvement district.

The credit shall be applied at the time of payment of the general facility charge and shall not be used to reduce any assessments in the local improvement district. Credits to the general facility charge shall not be applicable to: (a) local improvement districts finalized prior to the effective date of the ordinance establishing this general facility charge; or (b) omitted properties for a local improvement district formed after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section. Omitted properties are properties benefited by the improvements constructed in the local improvement district but for which the property was not included in the local improvement district at the time of its formation.

E. Public property owners that pay final assessments through a local improvement district formed by the city council where such local improvement district is formed to finance the construction of any of the improvements that are a basis for calculating the value of the general facility charge may obtain a credit against general facilities charges at such time as the property is put to actual use for state highway purposes, if the property has not connected to the city’s water system. For purposes of this subsection, “actual use” shall mean commencement of state highway construction on the property, and “state highway” shall mean a highway that is both designated as a state highway pursuant to RCW 47.24.010 as amended, and classified as an urban principal arterial or higher classification in the federal classification system. The credit shall be the smaller of the local improvement district assessment for the property and the designated general facilities charge (“DGFC”) calculated as follows:

(ERUs/Acre for zoning classification) x (Number of Acres*) x (GFC rate at time of commencement of actual use for highway purposes) = DGFC

*If the local improvement district assessment were calculated based on buildable acres, then the number of acres used for the calculation shall be the number of buildable acres set forth in the final assessment roll.

The ERUs/acre under this subsection for each zoning classification are as follows:

1.	Single-Family Residential:	3.5 ERU/Acre
2.	Small Lot Residential:	8 ERU/Acre
3.	Medium Density Residential:	11 ERU/Acre
4.	High Density Residential:	12 ERU/Acre
5.	Neighborhood Residential:	6 ERU/Acre
6.	Neighborhood Commercial:	6 ERU/Acre
7.	Community Commercial:	4 ERU/Acre
8.	Community Mixed Use:	12 ERU/Acre
9.	Regional Commercial:	8 ERU/Acre
10.	Business Park:	8 ERU/Acre
11.	Industrial:	2 ERU/Acre

A public property owner seeking credit under this subsection shall file a written request to the public works director together with proof that the property is in actual use for highway purposes. Upon determination by the director that the requirements for credit under this subsection have been met, the director shall set forth in writing the amount of the general facilities charge credit for the property based on the above formula and the zoning classification of the property at the time of commencement of actual use for highway purposes.

The general facilities charge credit under this subsection is transferable in whole or in part and may be applied to then-applicable water general facilities charges imposed in accordance with this chapter, as amended, on any future development or redevelopment within the city of Fife. Any transfer of general facilities charge credit to another property shall be in writing, shall be signed by the city solely to confirm the actual amount of the credit available and transferred, and shall include the reservation of rights set forth below in this subsection. If a property obtains general facilities charge credit under this subsection, it shall be ineligible for the credit under subsection (D) of this section.

Nothing herein shall prevent or impede the city from amending or repealing any provisions of the Fife Municipal Code regarding water general facilities charges. In the event the city no longer imposes water general facilities charges, any outstanding general facilities charge credit under this subsection shall have no value, and the owner of such credit shall have no claim or recourse against the city.

The credit shall be applied at the time of payment of the water general facility charge and shall not be used to reduce any assessments in the local improvement district. Credits to the general facility charge under this subsection are only available for property paying final assessments in local improvement districts formed after 2007.

F. A credit against the general facility charge may be applied for those property owners that construct at their own expense any of the improvements that are a basis for calculating the value of the general facility charge or for those property owners that pay a latecomer’s fee toward those same improvements. The credit shall be the smaller of the following:

1. That portion of the design and construction costs or latecomer’s fees that are directly applicable to the construction of the improvements that are a basis for the value of the general facility charge; or

2. That proportionate amount of the general facility charge that is attributable to the water facilities either constructed by the property owner or paid through a latecomer’s fee.

The credit shall be applied at the time of payment of the general facility charge and shall not be used to reduce any latecomer’s fees. Credits to the general facility charge shall not be applicable to facilities constructed or latecomer’s fees established prior to the effective date of the ordinance establishing this general facility charge.

G. Any single-family residence existing at the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section and desiring to hook up to water is exempt from paying this general facility charge for a period of six months from the date water becomes available in front of the property.

H. The general facilities charge for any single-family residence in existence, and not otherwise exempt from paying a general facilities charge under this chapter, shall be 60 percent of the regular general facilities charge rate.

I. Any lots that were already platted and zoned as “single-family residential” and existing at the effective date of Ordinance No. 1347 (codified in this section, and effective April 21, 1999) and desiring to hook up to water are exempt from paying this general facility charge for a period of six months from the date water becomes available in front of the property. For such lots that are unimproved when water becomes available, the six-month time period shall begin to run when a permit has been issued for new construction.

J. Any water service that has been legally hooked up to the city’s system shall be deemed to vest the property on which such service exists for water general facility charges equal to the number of ERUs provided under this section; provided, that a water bill is paid for such service for at least four months of each rolling 12-month period and that the account is no more than six months in arrears. The required four months’ payment shall be due regardless of whether any water is used, and shall be calculated at the minimum current rate for the service size if no water is used. If less than four months’ water service bills have been paid in a given rolling 12-month period, or the account is more than six months in arrears, the rights to water service shall be forfeited, the service disconnected, and service not restored until after payment of new water general facility charges, meter fees, and connection fees at the rate then in effect. The finance director-treasurer shall review utility account records after the end of each billing period and shall twice notify any property owner subject to forfeiture of water service rights under this section, allowing at least 30 days after the first such notice and seven days after the second such notice before declaring the service forfeited. Once notice has been mailed, all fees must be paid in full or the service forfeiture will proceed as scheduled.

K. Any rights to water service vested under this section shall run with the property and may offset general facility charges applied to development or redevelopment of the property or to the property and contiguous adjoining properties developed or redeveloped under a single plan with unified permits. Such rights may not be otherwise transferred.

L. The finance director-treasurer shall cause to be recorded with the Pierce County auditor a notice declaring the forfeiture of the service right, and that any new service will be subject to the city codes, regulations and fee schedules in effect at the time water service is requested. (Ord. 1814 § 1, 2012; Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1725 § 1, 2010; Ord. 1479-03 § 1, 2003; Ord. 1479 § 1, 2002; Ord. 1416 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1379 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1365 § 1, 1999; Ord. 1347 § 1, 1999).

13.04.100 Water main extensions – Fees.

Whenever any developer desires to extend a water main at its expense, such developer shall, before securing a building permit, enter into a developer’s agreement in accordance with Chapter 13.12 FMC. Fees for permit review, processing, inspection and compliance review shall be as set forth in FMC 3.80.010. Plan review and processing fees shall be paid prior to issuing the associated water permit. Inspection and compliance review fees shall be paid prior to acceptance of the improvements by the city. (Ord. 1929 § 2, 2016; Ord. 1416 § 2, 2000; Ord. 1366 § 3, 1999; Ord. 666 § 10, 1982).

13.04.110 Corporation stops.

All service pipes must come direct from the street main and shall be laid at such depth and at such point as the public works department designates. No bib or fixture of any kind shall be installed between the main and the meter. All corporation stops and connections thereto shall be maintained and under the control of the public works department. (Ord. 666 § 11, 1982).

13.04.120 Connections from meter at owner’s expense and care.

All pipes and connections from the meter located on or near the property line shall be put in at the expense of the property owner, who shall be responsible for all damages resulting from leaks and breaks. (Ord. 666 § 12, 1982).

13.04.130 Plumber’s permit for turn on and off.

No plumber or other person will be allowed to make connection with the city’s mains or make alterations in conduit, pipe or other fixtures connecting therewith, or to connect pipes when they have been disconnected, or to turn water off or on, upon any premises at the city’s corporation stops without approval of the public works department. (Ord. 666 § 13, 1982).

13.04.140 Fire hydrant – Permit required for use – Violation.

A. Any person, firm or corporation desiring water service from a fire hydrant or hose connection shall first make application for a hydrant use permit to the city and pay an annual fee, due January 1st of each year.

The current fee schedule relating to this section of the Fife Municipal Code is available at Fife City Hall and at the city of Fife’s website: www.cityoffife.org.

B. Any person, firm or corporation making connections to or alterations in any pipe wherever water may be drawn from the city’s mains or taking water from any fire hydrant, bib pipe or fixture of any kind, without first having secured and having in their possession a hydrant use permit for the same from the city shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. All fines collected under this section shall be placed to the credit of the water/sewer operating fund. (Ord. 1783 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 666 § 14, 1982).

13.04.150 Fire hydrant – Operation restrictions.

It is unlawful for any person, other than properly authorized employees of the city or members of the fire department, to operate fire hydrants and hose outlets unless permission has first been granted by the public works department and proper arrangements have been made with the finance director-treasurer for payment of the water to be used. (Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 666 § 15, 1982).

13.04.160 Fire hydrant – Operation by inspector – Cost borne.

When it is deemed necessary by the public works department, the city will furnish an inspector to operate a fire hydrant or hose connection to avoid damage and to obtain the necessary information for computing the volume of water consumed. The expense for the services of the inspector and equipment furnished shall be paid by the applicant.

13.04.165 Fire hydrant – Quick disconnect steamport fittings.

Every fire hydrant required to be installed within the city, whether on public or private property, shall be equipped with quick disconnect steamport fittings as approved by the public works director or his designee (Storz fittings or their equivalent). (Ord. 1859 § 53, 2014; Ord. 1033 § 1, 1990; Ord. 950 § 1, 1988).

13.04.170 Fire hydrant – Monthly rates for water consumption.

The monthly rate for the water consumed from fire hydrants shall be as set forth in the current fee schedule. The user shall be billed for the service until the city is notified in writing that the service is to be discontinued.

13.04.180 Turn on and turn off service by public works department employees only – Violation.

A. No person, except employees of the public works department, will be allowed to turn the water on or off at the city’s corporation stops, after the plumbing has been completed and the water turned on by the public works department.

B. Should the water be turned on to the premises by anyone other than an employee of the public works department, after it has been turned off at the city’s angle meter stop, it will be turned off at the main and will not be turned on again until the charges as prescribed in this chapter have been paid. (Ord. 666 § 18, 1982).

13.04.190 Vacant premises – Service discontinuance procedures.

Should it be desired to discontinue the use of water supplied to vacant premises for a period of not less than 30 days, notice in writing must be given to the finance director-treasurer. The water will then be turned off and turned on again on written application for a fee. No remission of charges will be made for a period less than 30 days, or without the notice.

13.04.200 Emergency shutoff without notice – Responsibilities of owners.

A. The water may at any time be shut off from the mains without notice, for repairs, extensions or other necessary purpose, and persons having boilers supplied by direct pressure from the mains are cautioned against danger of explosion or collapse, and where meters are in use or to be used on such service, a safety valve shall be placed between the boiler on such service and the meter, at the owner’s expense, and said person shall be held responsible to the city for any and all damages to meters or injuries to persons caused by hot water.

B. The city will not be responsible for the safety of boilers or other fixtures on the premises of any water consumer.

C. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to place on record with the city, life-support equipment data that requires water for its operation or function. The city shall not be responsible for service interruption but shall endeavor to give prior notice if possible.

D. Newly constructed apartment buildings shall be charged for the number of units actually occupied for the first six months following the date of completion of construction. It shall be the duty of the owner of the apartment building to report to the city each month the number of units occupied the previous month. If the information is not received from the owner by the tenth of the following month, the full number of units will be billed. After the expiration of the six-month period, the apartment building shall be charged a monthly rate for all units whether occupied or not. (Ord. 666 § 20, 1982).

13.04.210 Irrigation and sprinkling shutoff orders – City council authority – Violation.

A. The right to make an order, in case of shortage, or for any good and sufficient reason, suspending the use or hours of use of water for irrigation sprinkling purposes, is reserved to the city council, at its discretion; which order shall take effect from and after its publication in the official newspaper of the city unless an emergency is declared and thereupon no prior notice must be given.

B. Violations of such order shall be deemed a misdemeanor. All fines collected under this section shall be placed to the credit of the water-sewer operating fund. (Ord. 666 § 21, 1982).

13.04.220 Inspection of premises authorized when.

Employees of the public works department who desire entrance to any part of a building in which water may be supplied from the city mains, for the purpose of inspecting the condition of the pipes and fixtures, and the manner in which the water is used, will present his or her credentials and ask permission to enter. If permission is denied, the employee shall have recourse to the Fife municipal court to seek an administrative search warrant for gaining entry. Neither permission nor warrant are necessary if a public safety emergency justifies entry. (Ord. 1805 § 2, 2012; Ord. 666 § 22, 1982).

13.04.230 Piling rubbish on meters prohibited.

All persons are prohibited from piling rubbish of any kind on water meters and covers so as to prevent free access thereto by employees of the public works department. (Ord. 666 § 23, 1982).

13.04.240 Meter rates for water service within city limits.

A. Meter rates shall be as follows:

1. Effective January 1, 2014, the minimum monthly rate for water supplied through meters to users within the city limits and the associated base usage amounts shall be as follows:

Meter Size (in inches)	Minimum Charge per Month	Monthly Base Amount
5/8 x 3/4 or 3/4	$25.56	300 cubic ft. or less
1	$85.18	1,000 cubic ft. or less
1-1/2	$153.43	1,800 cubic ft. or less
2	$213.02	2,500 cubic ft. or less
3	$426.15	5,000 cubic ft. or less
4	$639.17	7,500 cubic ft. or less
6	$1,278.38	15,000 cubic ft. or less

For every 100 cubic feet of water supplied through meters to users within the city limits in excess of the monthly base usage amounts above, $3.22 will be charged.

2. Effective January 1, 2015, the minimum monthly rate for water supplied through meters to users within the city limits and the associated base usage amounts shall be as follows:

Meter Size (in inches)	Minimum Charge per Month	Monthly Base Amount
5/8 x 3/4 or 3/4	$26.07	300 cubic ft. or less
1	$86.88	1,000 cubic ft. or less
1-1/2	$156.50	1,800 cubic ft. or less
2	$217.28	2,500 cubic ft. or less
3	$434.67	5,000 cubic ft. or less
4	$651.95	7,500 cubic ft. or less
6	$1,303.95	15,000 cubic ft. or less

For every 100 cubic feet of water supplied through meters to users within the city limits in excess of the monthly base usage amounts above, $3.28 will be charged.

3. Commencing January 1, 2016, and on the first day of January each successive year thereafter, the minimum monthly rates for water supplied through meters to users within the city limits and the water usage rate shall be increased from the previous year in accordance with the following formula:

[Wholesale Costs as % of Total Costs] x [Wholesale Cost Increase] + [Other Operating Costs as % of Total Costs] x [Increase in Average Annual Consumer Price Index for Seattle (CPI-U: All Urban Consumers)] + [Rate-Funded Capital Costs as % of Total Costs] x [Increase in Average Annual Engineering News Record (ENR) Construction Cost Index for Seattle] = Indexed Rate Adjustment

The January 1, 2017, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus five percent.

The January 1, 2018, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus five percent.

The January 1, 2019, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus four percent.

The January 1, 2020, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus four percent.

The January 1, 2021, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus three percent.

The increase on the first day of January each successive year thereafter shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage.

For purposes of this formula:

“Total Costs” shall consist of the following percentages:

Wholesale Costs	41.6%
Other Operating Costs	58.4%
Rate-Funded Capital Costs	0.0%
Total Costs	100.0%

“Wholesale Cost Increase” shall be the increase in the Tacoma wholesale water rate paid by the city over the previous year.

“Increase in Average Annual Consumer Price Index for Seattle (CPI-U: All Urban Consumers)” shall be measured for the 12-month period ending in June of the previous year as published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

“Increase in Average Annual Engineering News Record (ENR) Construction Cost Index for Seattle” shall be measured for the 12-month period ending in June of the previous year.

The city manager shall cause to be prepared a rate worksheet setting forth the future minimum rate amounts for each meter size and the water usage rate, based on the percentage increases set forth herein, and said worksheet shall be available to the public.

B. Tandem water connections involving residences or residence-commercial combinations having a common water meter shall be billed the prevailing minimum rate for residences and/or businesses in place of the standard meter-size minimum charge, and shall be allowed the minimum cubic feet allowed for the meter size, and in addition shall be charged the excess over such cubic feet at the prevailing rate per 100 cubic feet.

C. Users with water service meters for landscape irrigation only shall not be charged from November 1st through April 30th unless the meter shows usage during said months; in which event, a charge shall be made for the billing period in which the water was used.

D. Reduced Water Rates.

1. Upon application therefor, a 30 percent discount in any residential water rate set forth in this chapter shall be granted for any household occupied by low-income elderly senior or low-income disabled persons. In order to qualify as disabled under this section the applicant must receive funds from a disability program as a result of a disability that prevents them from working consistent with the equivalent of 42 U.S.C. Section 401 et seq. A household shall qualify for this discount if it is a single-family dwelling unit or an individually metered multi-dwelling unit, occupied by at least one person 62 years of age or older or one adult disabled person, and the total gross household income in either case is equal to or less than 70 percent of the median household income in Pierce County. A 50 percent water rate discount shall be granted for any household that meets the above eligibility criteria, when the total gross household income in either case is equal to or less than 50 percent of the median household income in Pierce County. Eligibility shall be certified by the city clerk. The city clerk may verify continued eligibility at any time after initial certification.

2. The city manager is authorized to promulgate reasonable rules and regulations to implement this section. (Ord. 2070 § 1, 2022; Ord. 1947 § 1, 2016; Ord. 1923 § 1, 2015; Ord. 1884 § 1, 2014; Ord. 1777 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1707 § 1, 2010; Ord. 1609-06 § 1, 2006; Ord. 1421 § 1, 2001; Ord. 1416 § 3, 2000; Ord. 1367 § 1, 1999; Ord. 1311 § 2, 1998; Ord. 1292 § 1, 1997; Ord. 1038 § 2, 1990; Ord. 911 § 1, 1987; Ord. 894 § 1, 1986; Ord. 801 § 1, 1985; Ord. 797 § 1, 1985; Ord. 666 § 24, 1982).

13.04.250 Rates for water service outside city limits.

The minimum monthly rates for water supplied for purposes of building sprinkler fire protection or through meters to users outside the city limits shall be an additional surcharge of 50 percent of all rates, fees and charges. (Ord. 666 § 25, 1982).

13.04.260 Charge when LID assessment not made.

Repealed by Ord. 1120.

13.04.270 Fire protection service – Standby charges.

The monthly rate for water supplied for the purpose of building sprinkler systems and fire hydrants on private property shall be as set forth in the current city of Fife fee schedule.

13.04.280 Fire protection service – Equipment installation and maintenance.

A. Pipes for fire protection purposes must be fitted with such fixtures only as are needed for fire protection and such fixtures shall be sealed by the fire marshal, and in no case shall such seal be broken, except in case of fire or by the fire chief for the purpose of testing the pipes, fixtures or hose.

B. When seals are broken in case of fire, it shall be the duty of the owner or tenant of the premises to notify the fire marshal within 24 hours after its occurrence, and the seal shall be replaced by the fire marshal.

C. Violation of this section shall be deemed a misdemeanor. All fines collected shall be placed to the credit of the water/sewer operating fund.

D. No domestic water services shall be allowed to be connected to a dead-end water main that is designed to be installed on private property for fire protection. All domestic water services shall be connected to the water system within the rights-of-way unless approved by the public works director. (Ord. 1859 § 54, 2014; Ord. 666 § 28, 1982).

13.04.290 Backflow prevention assemblies defined – Required.

A. “Backflow” means a flow, other than the intended direction of flow, of any foreign liquids, gases or substances into the distribution system of a public water supply.

B. “Backflow prevention assembly” means a backflow preventer assembled as a unit of properly located and approved shutoff valves and test cocks so that assembly can be approved by a recognized testing agency as meeting material, construction and operating requirements acceptable to and approved by the Washington State Department of Health or such other as shall have jurisdiction over the subject matter, and by the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USCFCCCHR), used to counteract back pressure or prevent back-siphonage into the distribution system of a public water supply.

C. “Cross-connection” means any actual or potential physical arrangement whereby a public water supply is connected, directly or indirectly, with any other water supply system, sewer, drain, pipe conduit, pool storage reservoir, plumbing fixture or other device which contains or may contain contaminated water, sewage or other wastes, liquids, gases or any other substance of unknown or unsafe quality, which may be capable of imparting contamination to a public water supply as a result of backflow.

D. Backflow prevention assemblies shall be required wherever a cross-connection may occur, subject to the decision of the public works director or his designated representative. All irrigation, industrial, and fire prevention systems shall be provided with backflow prevention assemblies. (Ord. 2011 § 1, 2019; Ord. 1859 § 55, 2014; Ord. 666 § 29, 1982).

13.04.300 Cross-connections – Prohibited when.

A. It is unlawful for any person to install or maintain any cross-connection which would endanger the purity of the city of Fife water supply. Any such cross-connection now existing or hereafter installed is hereby declared unlawful and shall be abated immediately by the owner or person having the right to occupy the premises upon which any such cross-connection exists.

B. Wherever cross-connections with the Fife water system cannot be eliminated, then backflow prevention assemblies shall be installed and tested as required by WAC 246-290-490. The installer shall arrange for inspection by the city at the time of installation. Thereafter, the owner or person entitled to occupy the premises served by the backflow assembly shall have the assembly inspected and tested annually by a Washington State Department of Health certified backflow assembly tester approved by the city and shall cause the inspection report to be sent to the city.

C. The public works director or his designated representative shall have access to inspect cross-connections and backflow prevention assemblies during reasonable business hours. If the owner or occupant of premises upon which a cross-connection or backflow prevention assembly exists does not consent to an inspection, then an inspection shall be conducted pursuant to an administrative search warrant or pursuant to a warrant issued upon probable cause to believe that a violation exists.

D. WAC 246-290-490 is hereby adopted by reference as though fully set forth herein.

E. The Accepted Procedure and Practice in Cross-Connection Control Manual – Pacific Northwest Section, 7th Edition, published by American Water Works Association (A.W.W.A.) and all subsequent amendments thereto is hereby adopted by reference as though fully set forth herein as the minimum cross-connection control operating policy of the city of Fife. The public works director or the public works director’s designated representative may adopt additional minimum cross-connection control policies and adopt procedural rules relating to the enforcement of said requirements.

F. Any person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.

G. Any premises served by the city of Fife’s public water system that fails to comply with the cross-connection control requirements of this chapter, or any policies or rules adopted pursuant to this section, shall be subject to termination of water service. (Ord. 2011 § 2, 2019; Ord. 1859 § 56, 2014; Ord. 1796 § 2, 2012; Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1181 § 1, 1994; Ord. 1066 § 1, 1991; Ord. 666 § 30, 1982).

13.04.310 Meter installation – City rights – Costs.

The right is reserved to the city, through its public works director, to place a water meter on any service for the purpose of measuring the water used on the premises by such service, and payment for installation and water used shall be made by the property owner in the manner as prescribed in this chapter. (Ord. 1859 § 57, 2014; Ord. 666 § 30, 1982).

13.04.320 Meters – Testing procedures and charges.

In the event of the meter’s getting out of order and failing to properly register the amount of water used, the property owner shall be charged at the average rate of monthly consumption as shown by the meter when in order. When the property owner requests that the meter be checked for errors and upon checking it is found that the meter complies with the requirements of the laws of the state in regard to water meters, a fee shall be made and added to the billing of the property owner. If said meter is found to be incorrect, then no charge shall be made for the meter check.

13.04.330 Advisory board created.

An advisory board shall be created for the purpose of recommending water connections and/or rate considerations for special or unusual conditions either within or outside the city and the establishment of LIDs or ULIDs. It shall consist of the public works director, the city clerk or finance director-treasurer or designee and at least one member of the city council. All recommendations of the advisory board shall be submitted to the city council. (Ord. 1859 § 58, 2014; Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 894 § 2, 1986; Ord. 666 § 33, 1982).

13.04.340 Violation – Penalty – Additional liability.

Any knowing violation of the provisions of this chapter or any knowing failure to comply with the requirements of this chapter or any of the provisions of any other ordinances of the city relating to water regulations shall be a misdemeanor, and the water shall be turned off and remain so until the penalty and all other charges due are paid; provided, that the penalties shall not apply to violations of sections of the water ordinances of the city for which specific penalties have been provided. In addition thereto, any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be liable to the city for any expense, loss or damage occasioned by the city by reason of such violation. (Ord. 1777 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 842 § 13, 1986; Ord. 666 § 34, 1982).

13.04.350 Utility contract – Bond requirements.

No contract work on a city utility shall be approved until the applicant has first filed with the city a bond, the form to be approved by the city attorney and with surety approved by the finance director-treasurer. Such bond shall be conditioned on the faithful conformance with the provisions of this chapter and shall be further conditioned to indemnify and save harmless the city from any and all judgments, costs or expenses arising from injuries or damage to any persons or property on account of such work, and shall be further conditioned that the permit applicant shall carry out and complete such work within the specified time and according to the terms of such permit furnished by the public works director. Such bond shall be continuously in effect from the date of issue, and may be further conditioned to cover all permits issued to the applicant; provided, that such bond by its terms provides that the same shall not be canceled unless and until the public works director is given written notice of such intent to cancel a minimum of 10 days before the effective date of the cancellation. Such bond shall further provide that it shall remain in full force and effect until the acceptance by the city or expiration of any warranty period, whichever is longer, of any and all work which has been commenced or is to be commenced pursuant to any permit issued prior to the effective date of cancellation. (Ord. 1859 § 59, 2014; Ord. 1797 § 2, 2012).