A Public / City Water System is a network of pipes, pumps, valves, water treatment facilities, and storage tanks that work together to provide potable water to the public.

Water Main: A large primary underground pipe in the public water supply system that delivers water to individual service lines in a neighborhood.

Water Main Shut-Off Valve: A valve located on the water main that can be used to stop the flow of water from the main in the event of a leak or for maintenance.

Service Box: An accessible utility box that houses the curb-stop shut-off valve, allowing maintenance without digging up the service line.

Curb-Stop Shut-Off Valve: A valve, usually located near the property boundary, that controls the flow of water to the property and which can be shut off by the water utility.

Municipal Service Line: The pipe that runs from the water main to the property boundary, owned and maintained by the municipality.

Private Service Line: The continuation of the service line that runs from the municipal line to the home, owned and maintained by the property owner.

Remote Water-Meter-Reading Sensor: A device that allows the water usage meter to be read remotely by the utility

company, eliminating the need for manual meter readings.

Pressure-Reducing Valve: A valve that reduces the water pressure from the main supply to a level that is safe for home plumbing systems.

Backflow Preventer: A device installed in the home’s water system that prevents contaminated water from flowing back into the public water supply.

House Shut-Off Valve: A valve located inside or directly outside the home that allows the water supply to the entire house to be cut off.

Sampling Tap: An optional tap that allows for water samples to be taken for testing, ensuring water safety and quality.

Whole-House Water Treatment System: An optional system that treats all the water entering a house to improve its quality for drinking, cooking, and bathing.