Potable Water from Public Hydrants

Water from public hydrants can be used for construction by using a temporary hydrant meter. To get a temporary hydrant meter, you must:

  • Apply for an Ordinance Exception and get it approved,
  • Schedule an appointment with San José Municipal Water System (SJMWS) office, and
  • Pay the deposit fee.

Ordinance Exception

Before you make an appointment to pick up a hydrant meter, you must obtain an approved Ordinance Exception from Public Works. Complete the Ordinance Exception Application Form and submit it  in person to the Public Works Department at San José City Hall (1st Floor Counter, 3rd Floor for private development projects, 5th floor for Capital construction projects).

A permit fee will be charged for the Ordinance Exception. For the latest permit fee schedule, refer to Public Works’ current “Planning Permit Review Fees” on their Permit Applications and Resources webpage.

Bring the approved Ordinance Exception with you when you pick up the hydrant meter.

Schedule an Appointment to Pick Up the Meter

Pick up appointments are required. Hydrant meter services for temporary construction are provided on the following days:

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Fill out the Hydrant Meter Pickup form and select a date that works for you. We will contact you to confirm your appointment and provide the hydrant meter pickup location.

Pay the Deposit

A deposit of $800 is required for a hydrant meter at the time of pickup. Payments can be made by check or credit card. Checks should be made payable to “City of San José”.