Private Fire Hydrant Inspections

What is a private fire hydrant?

Any hydrant on private property rather than city owned property is considered a private hydrant. It is a valved connection to a water main to supply water to fire protection equipment, such as a fire hose, during a fire emergency. A fire hydrant on private property is required by the International Fire Code when the distance between a structure and the nearest public fire hydrant is too far for emergency personnel to reach to extinguish a fire.

Who would have a private fire hydrant?

A private property with a structure or building more than 400’ from the pubic fire hydrant, which has to be measured by an approved fire code official. 

Who is responsible for fire hydrants on private property?

A fire hydrant on private property is the responsibility of the property owner. It is the property owner’s liability to comply with the private fire hydrant requirements including, inspecting, testing, and maintaining the hydrant. Having a fire hydrant on private property helps to ensure water supply is available in a fire emergency.

Private fire hydrant requirements

Complying with the private fire hydrant requirements maximizes system integrity to ensure rapid and effective operation for a fire emergency.

Did you know that per NFPA 25 you are required to inspect your private fire hydrants annually?

What does an annual fire hydrant inspection consist of?

• Opened fully and water flowed until all foreign material has cleared
• Flow shall be maintained for not less than 1 minute
• Full drainage shall take no longer than 60 minutes
• They shall be lubricated annually to ensure that all stems, caps, plugs, and threads are in proper operating condition
• They shall be kept free of snow, ice and other materials to protect against damage at all times
• Every 5 years the underground main piping shall be flow tested

Understanding who is responsible for fire hydrants on private property and knowing the requirements to remain compliant is the best way to reduce risk of fire damage and keep occupants safe. It is critical that fire protection systems, including fire hydrants, receive the proper care to function as designed. A properly working system is dependent on the service and inspection team providing that care. If you need your private fire hydrant inspected, Contact Us to get a quote or schedule an appointment!

From design to installation, maintenance, inspection, and repair, Ahern has the team of NICET certified designers, in-house fabrication resources, and experienced field teams to meet your fire protection system needs.