Water Distribution

Water Notices

  1. Water FAQS (PDF)
  2. Leak Information (PDF)
  3. Winterize Your Pipes (PDF)
  4. Typical Water Service Connection (PDF)
  5. Do Not Flush Pet Waste! (PDF)

Water Meter Improvement Project

Distribution guys

As of 2024, all residential Town water customers have been upgraded to radio-read water meters  with “smart meter technology.”  The new meters allow remote reading and collect multiple reads per day, providing for better leak detection to minimize water loss and improved customer service.

 “Smart meters help our customers with their conservation efforts by providing us with daily usage information,” said Town Administrator Denice Kulseth.  “This new system supports the Town’s commitment to preserve and protect our environment through faster leak detection and carbon emission reductions resulting from eliminating the need to drive to every home for monthly reading.”  The new meters also contribute to improved Water Department efficiency as they have freed up the crew to focus on maintenance and emergency response to water line breaks.  

Customers can look forward to future improvements as the project moves into its next phase.  These plans include an online portal that will provide customers with near real-time meter reading and other usage information.  Ultimately, the system will send customers automatic alerts for leak detection and unusually high usage.  

PLEASE NOTE:  Do not cover or block access to your water meter.  The new meter system does not eliminate the requirement to allow our water crew full access to your water meter at any time (FHMC 13.04).

Questions about Town water service?  Call Town Hall: (360)378-2810.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn my water meter on or off?
No, do not touch your water meter.  Only Town Water Department crew members are authorized to service meters and turn them on or off. Please call (360) 378-2810 during regular business hours to arrange a date and time for your meter to be turned on or off at no charge and for any reason (e.g., plumbing repairs, leaving town, etc.). For water leak assistance after hours, call the Sheriff’s non-emergency number: (360) 378-4151.

What happens if I turn my water meter on or off?
Any person who has tampered with a water meter can be found to have committed a Class I civil infraction and will be fined $250 plus statutory assessments per infraction. Additionally, property owners are responsible for all costs associated with damaged water meters and will be billed by the Town for repairs.

Are there any shut-off valve requirements for my water connection?
Each separate building connected to the Town water system is required to have a water shut-off valve at the building. In addition, it is strongly recommended to have another shut-off valve near the water meter; this will allow you to determine whether a leak is between the meter and the building.  If you do not have shut-off valves, contact a licensed plumber for installation.

I have a leak somewhere on my property, can the Town locate or fix it?
No, property owners are responsible for the water connection on their side of the water meter including any underground pipes. Town water staff can assist a licensed plumber during regular business hours by turning the meter on and off while the plumber locates and repairs the leak.

Do you have tips for locating leaks?
Listen inside the house for a potential source of water flow. Not all leaks can be heard, so look carefully at each faucet, hose bib, and toilet. If nothing can be located in your building, the leak may be in the underground pipes between your building and the meter.

To check your toilet, add a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait 30 minutes.  If the coloring appears in the bowl, replace your flapper valve.

What happens if I don’t repair a leak on my property?
Water service may be suspended, terminated, or cancelled if a property owner does not repair the leak.  Allowing the existence of a water leak is prohibited (FHMC 13.04).

Can I get a break on my water bill if I have a leak?
Once a leak has been repaired by a licensed plumber, the property owner may apply for leak relief.  If the property is located within town limits, a plumbing permit is required.  The account will be audited to determine eligibility for a credit on water consumption and/or sewer overage charges; if eligible, the credit will apply to one billing cycle only.

When do I need a plumbing permit?
Plumbing permits are required for all repairs or improvements made to the water service connection on all properties within town limits. In the event of an emergency, plumbing permits must be obtained the next business day after the work has been completed. Be advised that inspections are required prior to covering up any plumbing fixtures.