WORKSHOP ITEM Jon Haukaas, Director of Public Works
Title
PRIVATE FIRE HYDRANT MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE
Background
SBM Fire and Blaine Public Works have been working together on how to best meet the requirements of Minnesota State Fire Code Section 507 requiring the regular inspection, testing and maintenance of fire protection systems including fire hydrants on private property. This proposed ordinance would set forth requirements to ensure functional operation and on-going maintenance of these privately owned fire hydrants.
Fire hydrants installed on private property as part of their development are a vital component of the fire protection system. This infrastructure does require regular maintenance to ensure it remains functional when needed in an emergency. Staff from both agencies believe it is in our best interest to develop a policy that outlines the procedures for private hydrants to be inspected, tested and repaired by qualified personnel to remain in good working order to protect life and property.
The ordinance will require the property owner arrange to annually have hydrants inspected to include testing of the operation, flow, and proper marking flags installed. The owner may hire a City approved inspector or contract with SBM to perform the work. A nominal fee would reimburse SBM for such work. Fees are recommended to be $25 per hydrant inspection and $25 to install a marking flag. These fees would be collected through the Utility Billing system.
Any deficiencies will be reported to the owner and a timeframe for repairs will be provided. Typically 30 days. Incomplete repairs would be contracted out by the Public Works department and costs charged back to the property owner through our standard processes.
There are multiple advantages of having SBM staff perform these inspection. Foremost is to ensure operability. Additional benefits are familiarity of locations, outreach to the businesses, and general knowledge and practice in hydrant operation. Public Works staff have already begun a training program with SBM staff to better understand hydrant components and operations. Finally, the public generally has greater acceptance of fire department authority to enter onto private property to perform this work.
Recommendation
A draft ordinance is attached which staff would like to bring forward for Council’s approval in the very near future. SBM staff would then begin their inspection and outreach program. Council feedback is requested.