Can you spot the fire hydrant in the picture above?

District and Fire Department regulations require that fire hydrants have a minimum clearance of three feet on all sides of the hydrant.

While the fire department has detailed maps of district hydrant locations, it can be difficult for them to quickly find and connect to a hydrant in an emergency if it is blocked by bushes, trees, trash, decorative walls, or other landscaping.

Please do not park in front of hydrants.

If you have a fire hydrant on your property, the District and fire department ask for your help in keeping it accessible. Please trim back bushes, trees, and landscaping, and remove any obstructions around the hydrant. Clear access ensures that crews can quickly connect hoses and equipment during routine maintenance or in an emergency. In the event of a fire, every second counts!

Pictured below are “unacceptable clearance” (bottom left) and “acceptable clearance” (bottom right) examples. If you have any questions or concerns about the above restrictions, contact the District office at info@swmetrowater.org or 303-979-2333.

Permits are required to use district fire hydrants.

Withdrawing water from a district-owned fire hydrant requires a permit, except in emergencies. The permit outlines when the hydrant may be used and how it must be operated to prevent damage and protect the district’s water system from contamination.

Permit fees cover administrative and inspection costs, and a refundable damage deposit is required. The deposit is returned once the permit expires, provided the hydrant is undamaged and the Hydrant Use Permit sign is returned.

Permit holders must:

Use approved backflow prevention devices to keep the water supply safe.

Meter all usage and pay Denver Water directly for the water withdrawn.

Display a Hydrant Use Permit sign whenever water is taken from a hydrant.

Residents can help protect the safety and reliability of the water system by reporting unauthorized hydrant use. If you see someone drawing water without a visible permit sign (like the one shown), please call the district office at 303-979-2333.