Water Utility

Overview

Property Owner Responsibilities:

• Water service line from the curb box into the building.
• All interior plumbing, pipes, and valves.
• Sewer lateral from the building to the street.

Water Utility Responsibility:

The Water Utility is only responsible for the water meter and the main piping from the curb box to the street.

Valves & Plumbing

You are responsible for all plumbing in and around your water meter.

Shut-off valves near the meter must be maintained:

• Street-side valve (left side of the meter).
• Building-side valve (right side of the meter).

• All nearby pipes and fittings must be kept in good condition.

Important:

• Any leaks inside your property are your responsibility.
• If a pipe or valve breaks during meter replacement, you must hire a licensed plumber to complete repairs.

Plumbing Work Rules:

• All interior plumbing must be completed by a licensed plumber.
• A City plumbing permit is required for all work.

A licensed plumber may operate the curb box to turn water on or off.

Curb Box Locates:

• Call the Utilities Office at least 3 business days in advance.
• Staff will mark the location and verify proper operation of the curb box.

For more information, see the Plumbing & Contractors page.

Protecting Your Water Meter

You are responsible for protecting your water meter and remote reader.

• Damage, loss, or tampering will result in repair or replacement charges.
• Unpaid charges may be placed as a lien on the property.

Winter Protection:

Keep the meter and piping insulated to prevent freezing.

Access Requirement:

City staff must have reasonable access to the meter at all times.

Cold weather can cause pipes and water services to freeze. Taking a few simple steps can help prevent damage and costly repairs.

What Can Freeze?

• Water service (lateral) — pipe from the street into your home.
• Interior plumbing — pipes in basements, crawl spaces, or near exterior walls.
• Water meter and nearby piping.

How to Prevent Freezing

Keep water moving:

• Run cold water for about 5 minutes, 2–3 times per day during cold weather.
• If needed, allow a small steady stream (about pencil-sized) overnight.

Warning signs:

• Low water pressure.
• Discolored water.

• If these occur, run cold water until normal flow returns.

Protect Indoor Plumbing

• Keep home heated (recommended minimum: 55°F / 13°C).
• Close and seal air leaks and openings.
• Repair broken windows and drafty doors.
• Insulate pipes near exterior walls.

Extra protection:

• Use UL-listed heat tape or heat cables if needed.
• Follow manufacturer instructions carefully.

Outdoor & Seasonal Tips

• Remove hoses from outdoor faucets.
• Shut off interior valves to outdoor faucets.

If a Pipe Freezes

• Turn off water at the main valve (near the meter).
• Call a licensed plumber.

Thawing methods (safe options only):

• Hair dryer.
• Space heater (used carefully).

DO NOT:

• Use open flames or torches (fire hazard).

Before Leaving for Winter

• Keep thermostat at 55°F (13°C) or higher.
• Have someone check the property regularly.

For extended absences:

• Shut off water service.
• Have a plumber drain and winterize the system.
• Consider requesting meter removal.

Vacant Properties

• Check on vacant buildings when possible.
• Report issues to the Water Utility.

Fire Hydrants

• Keep hydrants near your property clear of snow.
• This helps emergency response access.

When to Disconnect Water Service

You may want to shut off water if:

• The building will not be heated.
• The property will be vacant for an extended period.

This helps:

• Prevent frozen pipes and water damage.
• Avoid unexpected water/sewer charges.

Important:

• If a meter freezes, the property owner is responsible for repair costs.

Rules and Regulations are Established Under the Authority Granted By:

Wisconsin Statutes and Enactments:

• Wis. Stats. §66.0801-66.0831 Municipalities; Public Utilities
• Wis. Stats. §196 Regulations of Public Utilities

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin:

• PSC Chapter 184 Construction of Water Public Utilities
• PSC Chapter 185 Standards for Water Public Utility Service

The Wisconsin Administrative Code Sections:

• Department of Natural Resources (Water Division)
• • NR Chapter 809 - 860 Environmental Protection - Water Supply

• Department of Safety and Professional Services
• • SPS Chapter 381 - 387 Plumbing Code

City of La Crosse Municipal Code:

• Chapter 46 Utilities
• Listing of All Municipal Code Chapters

Policies and Decisions Adopted by the Board of Public Works:

• Legislation Search Form