This page focuses on things that a contractor needs when performing work in the Saint Paul Regional Water Services service area. If you need additional assistance, contact our engineering service desk at 651-266-6270 from 7:30 am - 4:00 pm (Monday - Friday).
Specifications, materials, and construction details that contractors must follow for water main projects in the SPRWS service area.
Diagrams and technical drawings for proper installation and component assembly.
SPRWS requires plumbing contractors obtain a plumbing permit before installing or replacing a backflow preventer. Only a person licensed by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry as a journeyman plumber may lawfully install, replace or rebuild backflow preventers; such person must also have a Certificate of Competency as a plumber/gasfitter issued by the City of Saint Paul Department of Safety and Inspections.
To ensure the safety of public health and comply with code requirements, SPRWS requires annual submittal of complete documented test results on its Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventer Test Report or Testable Double Checks Form.
Failure to provide this annually required documentation is a code violation and may result in discontinuation of water service.
Only a person licensed by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry as a “backflow preventer tester” may perform backflow preventer tests.
No permit is required for testing or rebuilding a backflow preventer, however a filing fee does apply (currently $35.00 per device).
The plumber is not responsible for paying the testing fee beginning on January 1, 2018. The $35 testing fee will be applied to the customer's water bill.
Minnesota State Plumbing Code Section 4714.0603.5.23 as well as Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 94.18 require annual testing of reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assemblies and testable double check valve assemblies.
Work requiring a plumbing permit and inspection that is performed on an emergency basis is exempt from obtaining a plumbing permit prior to the commencement of work. However, a plumbing permit must be obtained within 24 hours (weekends and holidays excluded), from the time of inspection or a double fee will be applied.
Go to online.stpaul.gov to apply for plumbing permits.
Click here for step-by-step application instructions.
*#3 Exception: In the city of Saint Paul ONLY, an SPRWS plumbing permit is not required if both of the following conditions are met:
Plumbing permits from SPRWS must be obtained before plumbing work starts in the following cities:
Upon SPRWS' acceptance of a valid credit card payment, the permit will be emailed to the contractor using the email we have on file within 24 hours.
If the work has not started, a full refund will be made upon request of the permittee for cancelation of the permit.
Permits are required to operate water hydrants for construction use. As needs for each use vary, as do locations, size, and other options, if you require a permit to operate a hydrant, you will need to talk to someone at the engineering service desk to help determine the best fit for your needs. The engineering service desk can be reached at 651-266-6270 from 7:30 am - 4:00 pm (Monday – Friday).
Once you have a permit to use a water hydrant, it is essential to operate the hydrant properly. Failure to operate the hydrant properly can result in damage to the water mains near the hydrant. Operating a hydrant without a permit is against the law and subject to a fine of $1,000. Fire departments and other city departments also have the need to operate water hydrants as required by their work. It is essential for these personnel to operate the hydrants safely as well, to prevent damage to the water mains.
This video demonstrates the proper procedure for opening and closing a fire hydrant safely and effectively.
The SPRWS External Map on ArcGIS Online offers access to our water facilities GIS data online. Please visit our external map hub page for more information and to submit an access form.
The water code is the Title XI - WATER UTILITY section of the Saint Paul Code of Ordinances.
Standard installation configurations and requirements for plumbing systems to ensure compliance with local codes and efficient water service.
Guidelines for typical installation of small water meters, typically used for residential and light commercial properties.
Guidelines for typical installation of larger water meters used in commercial and industrial settings.
Settings for 4 and 6-inch Meters
Guidelines for typical installation of seasonal lawn sprinkler services.
Last Edited: February 28, 2025
SPRWS Engineering Services
651-266-6270
7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Monday - Friday