Bulk Water Program

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Union County understands that contractors have projects which may require access to large quantities of water where no source is available. To make this possible, the County operates a bulk water program. The program allows permitted water trucks to draw water from specific hydrants, or for temporary meters to be installed at sites approved by Union County.

The following is a list of frequently asked questions about the County’s bulk water program. If you have further questions, please contact the County at 704-296-4210.

Expand/Contract Questions and Answers

How do I apply for a permit?
The Bulk Water Program has been created to allow customers to purchase metered bulk water from designated fire hydrant throughout Union County. To participate in the program, please complete and return the application with the completed vessel information form.
Do I need to get my truck inspected?
Yes. Vessel inspections will be conducted each Wednesday from 8am to 9am at the Union County Public Works Operations Center: 4600 Goldmine Road, Monroe, NC 28110. Inspections are conducted on a first come basis. A valid UC Water permit is required before attaching a vessel to a UC Water hydrant. The vessel meter must be mounted to the vessel, and the meter and air gap must pass inspection to receive a permit sticker.
Which hydrants can I access with my permit?
A permit allows you to draw water from bulk hydrants, which are easily identified by their blue tops. See a map of authorized hydrants here. A permit does not give you permission to draw water from every hydrant in Union County.
How much does a bulk water permit cost?
The cost of an annual permit, valid July 1-June 30, is $650 per vehicle. This cost remains the same throughout the entire year and cannot be prorated.

The inspection fee of $375.00 (applied to bill) per vessel.
What is the cost per gallon of bulk water?
Usage charged at the current non-residential rate of $5.93 per 1,000 gallons.

Account setup fee $25.00 (applied to bill).

Monthly base charge $17.83 per vessel.
Do I need to use the hydrant meter?
Customers will need to use the hydrant meter with every use, even if a meter is installed on their own vessel. The meter is covered in a green sleeve, with a connection point visible at the end for customer use.

All usage must be reported by the 5^th of each month on the UCWater monthly reporting form, including months without water usage. A monthly base charge is billed per meter, even if there is no usage.
Can I receive a temporary permit for a single use?
Yes. Union County provides temporary meters for individual projects. The meter must be installed, removed, and moved only at an approved location by Union County personnel. No temporary meters will be permitted if water service (account) is available.
What is the cost for using a temporary meter?
The temporary meter deposit is $3,280. We don’t offer 3/4” any longer and the base for 3” is $398.95. The usage is at the non-residential rate of $5.93 per 1,000 gallons.
What are the penalties for using a hydrant without a permit?
Unauthorized use of hydrants is punishable as a criminal offense, subject to fine and/or imprisonment.