Dual Service allows for one oversized water meter, combining both domestic use and fire protection for single-family residences and some multi-family residences (as approved by the local fire marshal) in lieu of a domestic water meter and dedicated private fire service. The California Building Code requires automatic fire sprinkler systems in all new construction. A dedicated private fire service is required for all commercial buildings and other multi-family residential buildings as determined by your local fire marshal.
Disclaimer: Applicants for new water service will find this information helpful to understand the process of applying for a new combination water and fire service (dual service). These charges and fees are presented only as guidelines for cost estimates. Final quotations will not be issued until a properly completed application is submitted. All applications for water service are subject to review and approval by EBMUD. All requests for preliminary estimates or quotations must include an address, accurate location of the parcel to be served, and the proposed use of the premises. Availability of an existing main, unusual installation conditions and contaminated soil conditions may increase your final cost.
Applying for dual service
STEP 1: Applicant provides:
- Applicant and owner contact information
- Address and parcel number of property to be served
- Number of meters required
- Size of service required or total flow (in gallons per minute/gpm) required
- Building permit number or grading permit number
- Name, address, and telephone number of plumbing and fire service contractor
- Hydrant/Fire Service/Dual Service Requirements (Fire) form signed by the local fire marshal
- Applicant Checklist
- Site plan with meter location shown
- Existing site environmental data (if available)
Apply online via our Water Service Application.
STEP 2: EBMUD provides cost estimate
EBMUD calculates cost of water service(s) and sends estimate to applicant.
STEP 3: Applicant remits payment
Applicant must pay all required charges and fees either in person or by mail before the job will be scheduled. Please call the New Business Office at 510-287-1008 to schedule an appointment to pay in person.
STEP 4: EBMUD obtains permit
EBMUD applies for either a city, county, or state encroachment permit for street work at your site.
STEP 5: EBMUD installs service and/or meter
After receiving the encroachment permit, EBMUD schedules the service and/or meter installation.
Service size
A service for both domestic use and fire protection (dual service) has a larger lateral and meter than a standard domestic service to meet the flow demand for fire prevention. The standard lateral size is 1-1/2" and the meter size for dual service depends on the domestic capacity for your property and flow demand for fire prevention, but is typically 1” to 1-1/2”. The information you provide in the online water service application is used to help EBMUD determine your meter size. Your contractor or a qualified plumber should be consulted regarding your particular service requirements.
Installation time
After the online water service application has been reviewed, accepted, approved, and released, installation of your new service will be completed within 6 to 8 weeks after receipt of full payment and required encroachment permit, if applicable. Note: Installation time is contingent on District workload, project size, and site conditions. During peak season, completion schedule may be impacted.
Costs
The cost of service depends on the size of the water meter, type of service, and location of the property. The total cost will be the sum of the following:
- Installation Charge
- System Capacity Charge
- Wastewater Capacity Charge*
- Front Foot Charges*
- Contaminated Soils*
- Account Establishment Charge
- Annexation Fees*
*When applicable
For more information regarding costs, please visit New water service costs defined.
Sample calculation
The cost to install a 1" dual service meter at a 3/4" domestic capacity with a 1-1/2" tap and lateral to serve a single-family residence under paved conditions would be calculated as follows:
| Installation Charge | $19,991 |
|
System Capacity Charge (≤1" residential) |
$19,527 |
| Wastewater Capacity Charge | $3,768 |
| Account Establishment Charge | $80 |
| Total | $43,366 |
System capacity charge
The System Capacity Charge (SCC) pays for the applicant's share of capital facilities including those that serve the entire water system. For dual services where both domestic use and fire protection is required, the SCC will be based upon the meter size necessary to meet domestic requirements only.
Additional regulatory reviews
The following additional regulatory reviews are associated with new water service and should be reviewed prior to submitting your application:
- Water Conservation Review
- Backflow Prevention Program
- Private Sewer Lateral Program
- Contaminated Soils
For more information regarding EBMUD's regulations, please visit Regulations governing water service.
Application questions
If you have questions about the water service application process, contact the New Business Office at 510-287-1008 to schedule an appointment. Let us help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Contact us
The EBMUD New Business Office is open Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Phone: 510-287-1008
Email: nbo@ebmud.com
375 11th Street, MS 104
Oakland, CA 94607-4240
For water pressure information: 510-287-1842
For questions about backflow prevention: 510-287-0874