Fire Hydrants

California and San Francisco fire codes may require installation of a new fire hydrant or relocation of an existing fire hydrant based on the type and occupancy of the building, and its proximity to existing hydrants. During the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI) building process, the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) reviews the location of existing and proposed fire hydrants. Once SFFD review is complete, their hydrant location and installation recommendation must also be approved by the SFPUC City Distribution Division.

Prior to hydrant installation, SFPUC may perform a hydraulic analysis of the water distribution system in the vicinity of the project. The hydraulic analysis determines whether the system has adequate capacity to support a new or relocated fire hydrant. If existing water distribution system pressures and flows are inadequate, the Project Sponsor will be responsible for any system improvements required to meet the proposed fire hydrant pressure and flow requirements.

If the results of the hydraulic analysis indicate that capital improvements to the water distribution system are required, SFPUC will determine the cost to the Project Sponsor.

How do I comply?

To obtain a new hydrant or to relocate an existing fire hydrant:

What happens once a Request for Cost Estimate for Installation/Relocation of Low Pressure Hydrant is submitted?

• The SFPUC Customer Service Bureau will forward the request to SFPUC City Distribution Division (CDD).
  • CDD will conduct the hydraulic analysis and investigate the proposed location.
  • CDD will notify the applicant of the results of the hydraulic analysis within an estimated three weeks. The notification will address the adequacy of the water distribution system and, if found to be inadequate, the scope and estimated cost of upgrades to meet the desired flows. The Project Sponsor will be responsible for all costs associated with upgrading existing water facilities to meet the project’s demands.
• SFPUC will estimate the cost for standard or custom hydrant installations and issue the estimated cost to the customer.
• Once payment is received, SFPUC will schedule the installation.SFPUC will issue an invoice or refund depending on the actual construction cost after the hydrant is installed.