reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.03. Water supply; rules and regulations

§ 34–2401.03. Water supply; rules and regulations.
Full power is given to the Mayor of the District of Columbia to supply the inhabitants of the District with the Potomac water from the aqueduct mains or pipes laid in the streets and avenues by the United States; and to the Council of the District of Columbia to make all laws and regulations for the proper distribution of the same, subject to the provisions of this chapter, and to the control of the Chief of Engineers, as provided in § 51 [revised; see now 40 U.S.C. § 9502 ] of Title 40, United States Code. The supply of Potomac water may be extended to points in the District beyond the limits of Washington upon like terms and conditions as are provided by law for the supply of the same in that city.
(R.S., D.C., § 195; June 20, 1874, 18 Stat. 116, ch. 337, § 2; June 11, 1878, 20 Stat. 103, ch. 180, § 3; June 10, 1879, 21 Stat. 9, ch. 16; Feb. 25, 1885, 23 Stat. 319, ch. 145; Feb. 11, 1895, 28 Stat. 650, ch. 79.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1503.
1973 Ed., § 43-1503.
Cross References
Mayor, council and other officers, police power regulations, see § 1-303.03.
Procurement, generally, see § 2-301.01 et seq.
Change in Government
This section originated at a time when local government powers were delegated to a Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia (see Acts Relating to the Establishment of the District of Columbia and its Various Forms of Governmental Organization in Volume 1). Section 402(323) of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967 (see Reorganization Plans in Volume 1) transferred all of the functions of the Board of Commissioners under this section to the District of Columbia Council, subject to the right of the Commissioner as provided in § 406 of the Plan. The District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, 87 Stat. 818, § 711 ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.11), abolished the District of Columbia Council and the Office of Commissioner of the District of Columbia. These branches of government were replaced by the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of Mayor of the District of Columbia, respectively. Accordingly, and also pursuant to § 714(a) of such Act ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.14(a)), appropriate changes in terminology were made in this section.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.04. Fiscal year of Water Department

§ 34–2401.04. Fiscal year of Water Department.
The fiscal year of the Water Department of the District of Columbia shall conform to the regular fiscal year of the general government; the rates shall be levied and collected at least once every 12 months, or whenever practicable in the judgment of the Council of the District of Columbia, at least once every 6 months.
(July 1, 1882, 22 Stat. 144, ch. 263, § 2; May 18, 1954, 68 Stat. 103, ch. 218, § 107.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1504.
1973 Ed., § 43-1504.
Transfer of Functions
Reorganization Order No. 28 of the Board of Commissioners, dated April 3, 1953, now redesignated Organization Order No. 147, dated August 19, 1965, established a Department of Sanitary Engineering headed by a Director. The Department performed sanitary engineering services and operations for the District including water distribution, sanitary, storm, and combined sewer systems, sewage treatment, and collection and disposal of waste material. The Office of the Water Registrar and the previously existing Department of Sanitary Engineering (which included the Sewer Division, Water Division, Sanitation Division, and the Sewage Treatment Plant) were abolished and their functions transferred to this Department. The Orders were issued pursuant to Reorganization Plan No. 5 of 1952. Functions of the Department of Sanitary Engineering as set forth in Organization Order No. 147, as amended, were transferred to the Department of Environmental Services by Commissioner’s Order. No. 71-255, dated July 27, 1971.
Change in Government
This section originated at a time when local government powers were delegated to a Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia (see Acts Relating to the Establishment of the District of Columbia and its Various Forms of Governmental Organization in Volume 1). Section 402(323) of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967 (see Reorganization Plans in Volume 1) transferred all of the functions of the Board of Commissioners under this section to the District of Columbia Council, subject to the right of the Commissioner as provided in § 406 of the Plan. The District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, 87 Stat. 818, § 711 ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.11), abolished the District of Columbia Council and the Office of Commissioner of the District of Columbia. These branches of government were replaced by the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of Mayor of the District of Columbia, respectively. Accordingly, and also pursuant to § 714(a) of such Act ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.14(a)), appropriate changes in terminology were made in this section.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.05. Payment of rates for water and water service

§ 34–2401.05. Payment of rates for water and water service.
All rates for water and water service hereby established shall be payable at least once semiannually. When the computation of the amount of any bill for any of such services results in a fraction of one-half cent or more, the next highest amount not containing a fraction shall be charged.
(Oct. 21, 1975, D.C. Law 1-23, title VII, § 701(c), 22 DCR 2115.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1505.
1973 Ed., § 43-1504a.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.06. Change of ownership or occupancy; statement of account

§ 34–2401.06. Change of ownership or occupancy; statement of account.
(a) Any person who desires a statement of the account of any water and sanitary sewer service charge to the date of the acquisition of any real property shall make a written request to the Department of Public Works (“Department”) on or before the date of the acquisition, except that the Mayor may enforce payment of water and sewer service charges by shutting off the water supply or refusing to restore the water supply without regard to a change of ownership or occupancy of any real property. The Department shall issue a statement of the account within 30 days after receipt of the request for a statement of the account.
(b) The Mayor, with prior written notice to the owner of the date and time of entry, and consistent with constitutional guidelines, may enter any building, establishment, or other premises furnished water or sanitary sewer service. If the Mayor is unable to gain entry to the real property after 2 attempts, the Mayor shall notify the owner or occupant to contact the Department within 3 business days after notice is mailed to the owner. If the owner or occupant fails to contact the Department, it shall be presumed that the owner or occupant refuses to permit entry to the property and the Mayor may impose a penalty of $100 and shut off the water supply to the real property. Upon the payment of the penalty or issuance of a final decision where the owner files a request for administrative review, the Mayor shall restore the water supply.
(Oct. 21, 1975, D.C. Law 1-23, title VII, § 703, 22 DCR 2116; June 13, 1990, D.C. Law 8-136, § 3, 37 DCR 2620.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1506.
1973 Ed., § 43-1504b.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.07. Water main taxes and rents to be uniform

§ 34–2401.07. Water main taxes and rents to be uniform.
Water main taxes and water rents shall be uniform in said District.
(June 10, 1879, 21 Stat. 9, ch. 16.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1507.
1973 Ed., § 43-1505.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.08. Department of Environmental Services

§ 34–2401.08. Department of Environmental Services.
The Department of Environmental Services shall perform such duties connected with the Water Department of the District as may be proper and necessary, under the direction of the Mayor of the District of Columbia. He shall give bonds for the faithful performance of his duty in the sum of $10,000.
(Leg. Assem., Aug. 23, 1871, ch. 108, § 16; June 20, 1874, 18 Stat. 116, ch. 337, § 2; June 11, 1878, 20 Stat. 103, ch. 180, § 3.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1508.
1973 Ed., § 43-1506.
Transfer of Functions
Office of Water Registrar abolished: Reorganization Order No. 28 of the Board of Commissioners, dated April 3, 1953, now redesignated Organization Order No. 147, dated August 19, 1965, established a Department of Sanitary Engineering headed by a Director. The Department performed sanitary engineering services and operations for the District including water distribution, sanitary, storm, and combined sewer systems, sewage treatment, and collection and disposal of waste material. The Office of the Water Registrar and the previously existing Department of Sanitary Engineering (which included the Sewer Division, Water Division, Sanitation Division, and the Sewage Treatment Plant) were abolished and their functions transferred to this Department. The Orders were issued pursuant to Reorganization Plan No. 5 of 1952. Functions of the Department of Sanitary Engineering as set forth in Organization Order No. 147, as amended, were transferred to the Department of Environmental Services by Commissioner’s Order No. 71-255, dated July 27, 1971.
The functions of the Department of Environmental Services were transferred to the Department of Public Works by Reorganization Plan No. 4 of 1983, effective March 1, 1984.
Change in Government
This section originated at a time when local government powers were delegated to a Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia (see Acts Relating to the Establishment of the District of Columbia and its Various Forms of Governmental Organization in Volume 1). Section 401 of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967 (see Reorganization Plans in Volume 1) transferred all of the functions of the Board of Commissioners under this section to a single Commissioner. The District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, 87 Stat. 818, § 711 ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.11), abolished the District of Columbia Council and the Office of Commissioner of the District of Columbia. These branches of government were replaced by the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of Mayor of the District of Columbia, respectively. Accordingly, and also pursuant to § 714(a) of such Act ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.14(a)), appropriate changes in terminology were made in this section.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.09. Refund of overpaid assessments

§ 34–2401.09. Refund of overpaid assessments.
In all cases where a water main has heretofore been or may hereafter be laid in a public street or way, and in order to secure the laying of such main the cost or a part thereof has been paid to the District of Columbia prior to the laying of said main by any person or corporation, there shall be repaid from time to time to such person or corporation, out of the collections from the assessment for such main, all of the amounts so paid over and above the assessment chargeable against the land owned or controlled by said person or corporation.
(June 2, 1900, 31 Stat. 252, ch. 612, § 2.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1520.
1973 Ed., § 43-1518.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.10. Water rents — Refund for erroneous payment

§ 34–2401.10. Water rents — Refund for erroneous payment.
The Mayor of the District of Columbia is hereby authorized to cause all water rents erroneously paid after March 3, 1905, in the District of Columbia to be refunded in the manner prescribed by law for the refunding of erroneously paid taxes; provided, that application for refund shall be made within 2 years after such erroneous payment. And after March 3, 1905, the said Mayor is authorized to cause to be refunded in the same manner and subject to the same limitations all money paid for water for any special purpose where the project is abandoned and the water not used, and for tapping water mains and for furnishing stopcock where the service is not rendered and the material is not furnished; and all money refunded under this section shall be paid from and charged to the water fund.
(Mar. 3, 1905, 33 Stat. 912, ch. 1406.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1521.
1973 Ed., § 43-1519.
Change in Government
This section originated at a time when local government powers were delegated to a Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia (see Acts Relating to the Establishment of the District of Columbia and its Various Forms of Governmental Organization in Volume 1). Section 401 of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967 (see Reorganization Plans in Volume 1) transferred all of the functions of the Board of Commissioners under this section to a single Commissioner. The District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, 87 Stat. 818, § 711 ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.11), abolished the District of Columbia Council and the Office of Commissioner of the District of Columbia. These branches of government were replaced by the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of Mayor of the District of Columbia, respectively. Accordingly, and also pursuant to § 714(a) of such Act ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.14(a)), appropriate changes in terminology were made in this section.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.11. Mayor to have authority to collect water rates in advance

§ 34–2401.11. Mayor to have authority to collect water rates in advance.
The Mayor of the District of Columbia has authority to provide for the collection of water rates, in advance or otherwise, from the owner or occupants of all buildings or establishments using the water; and to provide for stopping the supply of water to any dwelling or establishment upon a failure to pay the rate, and to carry into full effect the provisions of this chapter.
(R.S., D.C., § 197; June 20, 1874, 18 Stat. 116, ch. 337, § 2; June 11, 1878, 20 Stat. 103, ch. 180, § 3.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1526.
1973 Ed., § 43-1521.
Change in Government
This section originated at a time when local government powers were delegated to a Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia (see Acts Relating to the Establishment of the District of Columbia and its Various Forms of Governmental Organization in Volume 1). Section 401 of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967 (see Reorganization Plans in Volume 1) transferred all of the functions of the Board of Commissioners under this section to a single Commissioner. The District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, 87 Stat. 818, § 711 ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.11), abolished the District of Columbia Council and the Office of Commissioner of the District of Columbia. These branches of government were replaced by the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of Mayor of the District of Columbia, respectively. Accordingly, and also pursuant to § 714(a) of such Act ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.14(a)), appropriate changes in terminology were made in this section.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.12. Water rates not to be a source of revenue

§ 34–2401.12. Water rates not to be a source of revenue.
The water rates levied in the District of Columbia shall never be a source of revenue other than as a means of keeping up to said District a supply of water but shall constitute a fund exclusively for the maintenance, management, and repair of the system of water distribution.
(R.S., D.C., § 198; July 12, 1876, 19 Stat. 87, ch. 180, § 18; Feb. 25, 1885, 23 Stat. 319, ch. 145.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1531.
1973 Ed., § 43-1522.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.13. Payment of water tax into General Fund. [Repealed]

§ 34–2401.13. Payment of water tax into General Fund. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(R.S., D.C., § 203; Jan. 22, 1976, D.C. Law 1-42, § 3(d), 22 DCR 6313; July 23, 1992, D.C. Law 9-134, § 112(g), 39 DCR 4066; Sept. 10, 1992, D.C. Law 9-145, § 113(d), 39 DCR 4895.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1532.
1973 Ed., § 43-1523.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.14. Payment of water rents from Washington Aqueduct into General Fund

§ 34–2401.14. Payment of water rents from Washington Aqueduct into General Fund.
All water rents derived from the Washington Aqueduct shall be paid into the General Fund of the District of Columbia as established by the Revenue Funds Availability Act of 1975 [D.C. Law 1-42].
(R.S., D.C., § 217; Jan. 22, 1976, D.C. Law 1-42, § 3(e), 22 DCR 6313.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1533.
1973 Ed., § 43-1524.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.15. Water not to be diverted beyond District

§ 34–2401.15. Water not to be diverted beyond District.
Except as provided in §§ 34-2401.16 and 34-2401.17 no portion of the water conveyed or to be conveyed through or by means of the Washington Aqueduct, or any appurtenance thereof, shall be diverted to the supply or use of any building, premises or establishment located outside of the limits of the District of Columbia.
(Mar. 3, 1893, 27 Stat. 544, ch. 199.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1538.
1973 Ed., § 43-1529.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.17. Delivery of water — Arlington County, Virginia

§ 34–2401.17. Delivery of water — Arlington County, Virginia.
The Secretary of the Army is hereby authorized, in his discretion and subject to the approval of the Chief of Engineers, upon the request of the board of supervisors of Arlington County, Virginia, to permit the delivery of water from the federal water supply pumping station at the Dalecarlia Reservoir to the Arlington County sanitary district, created by an act of the General Assembly of the State of Virginia, of March 15, 1922, and to connect the force main of said pumping station with the water main in Arlington County at the southerly end of the Chain Bridge; provided, that all expenses of installing said connection and its appurtenances and any subsequent changes therein shall be borne by said Arlington County, which shall pay such charges for the use of such water as may be determined from time to time in advance by the Secretary of the Army, the payments to be made at such time and under such regulations as the Secretary of the Army may prescribe, all payments for the use of water to be deposited in the Treasury of the United States as other water rents collected in the District of Columbia are deposited; and provided further, that the Secretary of the Army may revoke at any time any permit for the use of said water that may have been granted.
(Apr. 14, 1926, 44 Stat. 251, ch. 140, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1540.
1973 Ed., § 43-1531.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 34-2401.15 and § 34-2401.18.
Editor's Notes
Restriction on use of funds: Section 136 of Pub. L. 102-382, 106 Stat. 1435, the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1993, provided that none of the funds made available in this Act may be used by the District of Columbia to impose, implement, collect, administer, transfer, or enforce a payment in lieu of taxes on the Water and Sewer Utility Administration that would increase payments required of suburban jurisdictions in Maryland or Virginia under the Blue Plains Intermunicipal Agreement of 1985.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.18. “Mayor,” “District of Columbia water system” defined

§ 34–2401.18. “Mayor,” “District of Columbia water system” defined.
As used in § 34-2401.17, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) “Mayor” means the Mayor of the District of Columbia.
(2) “District of Columbia water system” or “water system” means any and all of the facilities used or to be used for the supply of raw or partly purified water wherever situated and all of the facilities used or to be used for the distribution of purified water situated within the District of Columbia which are operated by the Department of Environmental Services or the Washington Aqueduct Division of the Washington District of the Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, or both.
(June 2, 1950, 64 Stat. 195, ch. 218, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1551.
1973 Ed., § 43-1539.
Transfer of Functions
The functions of the Department of Environmental Services were transferred to the Department of Public Works by Reorganization Plan No. 4 of 1983, effective March 1, 1984.
References in Text
Section 43-1540, referred to in the introductory language of this section, was repealed by the Act of December 24, 1974, 87 Stat. 832, Pub. L. 93-198, § 243(b).
Change in Government
This section originated at a time when local government powers were delegated to a Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia (see Acts Relating to the Establishment of the District of Columbia and its Various Forms of Governmental Organization in Volume 1). Section 401 of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967 (see Reorganization Plans in Volume 1) transferred all of the functions of the Board of Commissioners under this section to a single Commissioner. The District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, 87 Stat. 818, § 711 ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.11), abolished the District of Columbia Council and the Office of Commissioner of the District of Columbia. These branches of government were replaced by the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of Mayor of the District of Columbia, respectively. Accordingly, and also pursuant to § 714(a) of such Act ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.14(a)), appropriate changes in terminology were made in this section.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.19. Acquisition of land and right-of-way for pipelines

§ 34–2401.19. Acquisition of land and right-of-way for pipelines.
The Secretary of the Army is hereby authorized to acquire by purchase or condemnation all necessary lands, easements, and rights-of-way for pipelines within the District of Columbia to connect the force main of said pumping station with the water main in Arlington County as herein authorized.
(Apr. 14, 1926, 44 Stat. 252, ch. 140, § 2.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1544.
1973 Ed., § 43-1532.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.20. Unlawful tapping of water pipe; penalty

§ 34–2401.20. Unlawful tapping of water pipe; penalty.
The unlawful tapping of any water pipe laid down in the District by authority of the United States is a misdemeanor and an indictable offense; and any person convicted of such offense in the criminal court of the District shall be subject to a fine not exceeding $500, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year.
(R.S., D.C., § 218.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1546.
1973 Ed., § 43-1534.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 34-2401.21.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.21. Notification of violations

§ 34–2401.21. Notification of violations.
It is the special duty of the Chief of Engineers to bring to the notice of the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, or to the grand jury, any infraction of § 34-2401.20.
(R.S., D.C., § 219.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1547.
1973 Ed., § 43-1535.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.22. Penalty for damaging or defacing water pipes

§ 34–2401.22. Penalty for damaging or defacing water pipes.
Every person who maliciously breaks, injures, defaces, or destroys any main or pipe, bend, branch, valve, hydrant, service pipe, or any other fixture used for the distribution of water throughout the streets and avenues, or for its introduction into the houses, tenements, or buildings of the District of Columbia, shall be punishable by imprisonment in the District jail for not more than 2 years.
(R.S., D.C., § 220; Feb. 25, 1885, 23 Stat. 319, ch. 145.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1548.
1973 Ed., § 43-1536.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.23. Main pipes; laying for use of public buildings

§ 34–2401.23. Main pipes; laying for use of public buildings.
No greater number of main pipes of the Washington Aqueduct shall be laid at the expense of the United States than are sufficient to furnish the public buildings, offices, and grounds with the necessary supply of water. The cost of any main pipe, for the supply of water to the inhabitants of Washington, must be paid by the District of Columbia, in the manner provided by law.
(R.S., U.S., § 1805; Feb. 11, 1895, 28 Stat. 650, ch. 79.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1549.
1973 Ed., § 43-1537.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.24. Unauthorized opening of mains or pipes

§ 34–2401.24. Unauthorized opening of mains or pipes.
No person, unless by consent of the Chief of Engineers, shall tap or open the mains or pipes laid or hereafter to be laid by the United States, under a penalty of not less than $50 nor more than $500.
(R.S., U.S., § 1803; Feb. 26, 1925, 43 Stat. 983, ch. 339, § 3.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1550.
1973 Ed., § 43-1538.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.25a. Permitting authority to install meters

§ 34–2401.25a. Permitting authority to install meters.
If a department, independent establishment, or agency of the United States which uses water and water services from the District of Columbia water supply system has not installed a suitable meter at each point of Federal connection to the system to control and record the use of water through each such connection (as required under § 34-2401.25(a)) as of the expiration of the 60-day period which begins on December 21, 2001:
(1) The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority shall install such a meter or meters (and incidental vaults, valves, piping and recording devices, and such other equipment as the Authority deems necessary) not later than 60 days after the expiration of such period; and
(2) The department, independent establishment, or agency shall pay the Authority promptly (but in no case later than 30 days after the Authority submits a bill) for the costs incurred in installing the meter and equipment.
(Dec. 21, 2001, 115 Stat. 943, Pub. L. 107-96, par. 52(b)(2).)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 34-2401.25.
Effective Dates
Pub. L. 107-96, 115 Stat. 944, the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2002, provided in part:
“This section and the amendments made by this section shall apply with respect to fiscal year 2002 and each succeeding fiscal year.”
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.26. Contract authority of Mayor regarding costs of Potomac River reservoir; contract payments; appropriations

§ 34–2401.26. Contract authority of Mayor regarding costs of Potomac River reservoir; contract payments; appropriations.
(a) The Mayor is authorized to contract with the United States, any state in the Potomac River basin, any agency or political subdivision thereof, and any other competent state or local authority, with respect to the payment by the District to the United States, either directly or indirectly, of the District’s equitable share of any part or parts of the non-federal portion of the costs of any reservoirs authorized by the Congress for construction on the Potomac River or any of its tributaries. Every such contract may contain such provisions as the Mayor may deem necessary or appropriate.
(b) Unless hereafter otherwise provided by legislation enacted by the Council, all payments made by the District and all moneys received by the District pursuant to any contract made under the authority of this Act shall be paid from, or be deposited in, a fund designated by the Mayor. Charges for water delivered from the District water system for use outside the District may be adjusted to reflect the portions of any payments made by the District under contracts authorized by this Act which are equitably attributable to such use outside the District.
(c) There are hereby authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
(Mar. 24, 1972, 86 Stat. 113, Pub. L. 92-263, § 1-3; Dec. 24, 1973, 87 Stat. 808, Pub. L. 93-198, title IV, § 488.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1553.
1973 Ed., §§ 43-1542, 43-1542a.
References in Text
“This Act,” referred to in subsection (b) of this section, is the District of Columbia Home Rule Act.
Editor's Notes
This section is also codified at § 1-204.88.
Definitions applicable: The definitions in § 1-201.03 apply to this section.
Change in Government
This section originated at a time when local government powers were delegated to the District of Columbia Council and to a Commissioner of the District of Columbia. The District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, 87 Stat. 818, § 711 ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.11), abolished the District of Columbia Council and the Office of Commissioner of the District of Columbia. These branches of government were replaced by the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of Mayor of the District of Columbia, respectively. Accordingly, and also pursuant to § 714(a) of such Act ( D.C. Code, § 1-207.14(a)), appropriate changes in terminology were made in this section.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 34–2401.27. Acquisition of land for Washington Aqueduct

§ 34–2401.27. Acquisition of land for Washington Aqueduct.
Appropriations are hereby authorized for the acquisition, by gift, dedication, exchange, purchase, or condemnation, of land or rights in or on land or easements therein for the Washington Aqueduct by the Chief of Engineers, Corps of Engineers, United States Army, or his designated agents.
(Oct. 26, 1973, 87 Stat. 507, Pub. L. 93-140, § 18.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1554.
1973 Ed., § 43-1543.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter II - Prevention of Water Waste; Water Use by Manufacturers › § 34–2403.01. Prevention of water waste

§ 34–2403.01. Prevention of water waste.
In order to prevent unnecessary waste of Potomac water, and in order to more fully enforce the laws in relation to the distribution of the same, the Chief of Engineers is authorized, after giving notice, to shut off the water when such notice shall be disregarded from any places where a waste of water is occurring.
(R.S., D.C., § 214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1509.
1973 Ed., § 43-1507.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter II - Prevention of Water Waste; Water Use by Manufacturers › § 34–2403.02. Use of Potomac water for mechanical and manufacturing purposes

§ 34–2403.02. Use of Potomac water for mechanical and manufacturing purposes.
The use of Potomac water for mechanical and manufacturing purposes, or for private fountains, street and pavement washers, shall be allowed only when, in the opinion of the Chief of Engineers, it will not be detrimental to the general distribution of water in the District of Columbia.
(R.S., D.C., § 215; Feb. 25, 1885, 23 Stat. 319, ch. 145.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1510.
1973 Ed., § 43-1508.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter II - Prevention of Water Waste; Water Use by Manufacturers › § 34–2403.03. Large-quantity consumers to maintain water meters

§ 34–2403.03. Large-quantity consumers to maintain water meters.
(a) The supply of water to all manufacturing establishments, hotels, livery stables, and other commercial buildings, shall be determined by meters erected and maintained at the expense of the consumer.
(b) The bill for water meter service, including a charge for any repair made by the District, shall be due and payable when rendered. The Mayor shall impose a one-time charge of 10% for any water meter service charge that remains unpaid for more than 30 days and a penalty of 1% per month compounded monthly for any water meter repair service that remains unpaid for more than 60 days from the date the bill is rendered.
(c) In accordance with § 34-2407.02, the Mayor shall impose and enforce a continuing lien upon land and land improvements that are furnished water meter services if any charges remain unpaid for more than 60 days from the date the bill for services is rendered.
(d) The Mayor, with prior written notice to the owner of the date and time of entry, and consistent with constitutional guidelines, may enter any building, establishment, or other premises to inspect, install, replace, read, or repair any water meter required to be installed pursuant to the Public Works Act. If the Mayor is unable to gain entry to the real property after 2 attempts, the Mayor shall notify the owner or occupant to contact the Department within 3 business days after notice is mailed to the owner. If the owner or occupant fails to contact the Department, it shall be presumed that the owner refuses to permit entry to the property and the Mayor may impose a penalty of $100 and shut off the water supply to the real property. Upon the payment of the penalty or issuance of a final decision where the owner files a request for administrative review, the Mayor may restore the water supply.
(R.S., D.C., § 216; June 13, 1990, D.C. Law 8-136, § 4, 37 DCR 2620.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1511.
1973 Ed., § 43-1509.
References in Text
The “Public Works Act,” referred to in the first sentence of (d), is 68 Stat. 104, ch. 218.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter III - Water Mains › § 34–2405.04. Water main and service sewer assessments payable in three installments

§ 34–2405.04. Water main and service sewer assessments payable in three installments.
Assessments for water mains and service sewers shall be payable in 3 equal installments, the 1st of which shall be due and payable without interest within 30 days from date of service of notice or of the last publication of notice as the case may be, the second within 1 year, and the third within 2 years from the date of assessment, and interest at the rate of 6% per annum shall be charged on all amounts which shall remain unpaid at the expiration of 30 days from the date of service of notice or last publication as the case may be; but the owner of the property assessed may, at his option, at any time after the levying of such assessment, pay the same in full; provided, that if any installment of any assessment for water main or service sewer levied under the provisions of this subchapter shall not be paid when due and payable the property against which said assessment was levied may be sold for said delinquent installment at the next ensuing annual tax sale in the same manner and under the same conditions as property sold for delinquent general taxes, if said installment shall not have been paid prior to said sale.
(Apr. 22, 1904, 33 Stat. 245, ch. 1417, § 4.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1515.
1973 Ed., § 43-1513.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter III - Water Mains › § 34–2405.05. Assessment of property in County of Washington for water mains and service sewers

§ 34–2405.05. Assessment of property in County of Washington for water mains and service sewers.
Property in the County of Washington, not subdivided into blocks or lots, or both, shall not be assessed for water mains or service sewers until subdivided; provided, that where houses are built on any unsubdivided land and connection is made with a water main or service sewer, assessment shall be made as herein provided for in the case of subdivided property by assessing a frontage of 50 feet on each side of said connection with a depth of 100 feet, except that no double assessment shall be levied; said assessment to be levied within 60 days after said connection is made; and if such unsubdivided land is thereafter subdivided into blocks or lots, such lots shall be assessed as herein provided as to subdivided lands, but the 50 feet on each side of said connection, with a depth of 100 feet, shall not be again assessed; provided further, that assessments at the rate and in the manner herein provided for shall be levied against each lot or parcel of land abutting any water main or service sewer in all subdivisions of land, within 60 days after the recording of such subdivision in the office of the Surveyor of the District of Columbia, except in cases where said lots or parcels of land have been previously assessed for the same main or service sewer.
(Apr. 22, 1904, 33 Stat. 246, ch. 1417, § 5.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1516.
1973 Ed., § 43-1514.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter III - Water Mains › § 34–2405.07. Disposal of funds received by Collector of Taxes

§ 34–2405.07. Disposal of funds received by Collector of Taxes.
All sums received by the Collector of Taxes under the provisions of this subchapter on account of assessments levied for the construction of service sewers shall be credited to the appropriation under which the sewer was constructed for the fiscal year in which such sums shall be received.
(Apr. 22, 1904, 33 Stat. 246, ch. 1417, § 8.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1518.
1973 Ed., § 43-1516.
Editor's Notes
Office of Collector of Taxes abolished: The Office of the Collector of Taxes was abolished and the functions thereof transferred to the Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia by Reorganization Plan No. 5 of 1952. All functions of the Office of the Collector of Taxes including the functions of all officers, employees and subordinate agencies were transferred to the Director, Department of General Administration by Reorganization Order No. 3, dated August 28, 1952. Reorganization Order No. 20, dated November 10, 1952, transferred the functions of the Collector of Taxes to the Finance Office. The same Order provided for the Office of the Collector of Taxes headed by a Collector in the Finance Office, and abolished the previously existing Office of the Collector of Taxes. Reorganization Order No. 20 was superseded and replaced by Organization Order No. 121, dated December 12, 1957, which provided that the Finance Office (consisting of the Office of the Finance Officer, Property Tax Division, Revenue Division, Treasury Division, Accounting Division, and Data Processing Division) would continue under the direction and control of the Director of General Administration, and that the Treasury Division would perform the function of collecting revenues of the District of Columbia and depositing the same with the Treasurer of the United States. Organization Order No. 121 was revoked by Organization Order No. 3, dated December 13, 1967, Part IVC of which prescribed the functions of the Finance Office within a newly established Department of General Administration. The executive functions of the Board of Commissioners were transferred to the Commissioner of the District of Columbia by § 401 of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967. Functions of the Finance Office as stated in Part IVC of Organization Order No. 3 were transferred to the Director of the Department of Finance and Revenue by Commissioner’s Order No. 69-96, dated March 7, 1969.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter III - Water Mains › § 34–2405.08. “Service sewer” defined

§ 34–2405.08. “Service sewer” defined.
A service sewer within the meaning of the provisions of this subchapter shall be a sewer with which connection may be directly made for the purpose of providing sewerage facilities to abutting property, and such sewers shall be so indicated on the records of the Sewer Division of the Engineer Department of the District of Columbia.
(Apr. 22, 1904, 33 Stat. 246, ch. 1417, § 9.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1519.
1973 Ed., § 43-1517.
Transfer of Functions
Reorganization Order No. 28 of the Board of Commissioners, dated April 3, 1953, now redesignated Organization Order No. 147, dated August 19, 1965, established a Department of Sanitary Engineering headed by a Director. The Department performed sanitary engineering services and operations for the District including water distribution, sanitary, storm, and combined sewer systems, sewage treatment, and collection and disposal of waste material. The Office of the Water Registrar and the previously existing Department of Sanitary Engineering (which included the Sewer Division, Water Division, Sanitation Division, and the Sewage Treatment Plant) were abolished and their functions transferred to this Department. The Orders were issued pursuant to Reorganization Plan No. 5 of 1952. Functions of the Department of Sanitary Engineering as set forth in Organization Order No. 147, as amended, were transferred to the Department of Environmental Services by Commissioner’s Order No. 71-255, dated July 27, 1971.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter IV - Discontinuance of Service › § 34–2407.03. Remedies not exclusive

§ 34–2407.03. Remedies not exclusive.
The remedies set forth in §§ 34-2407.01, 34-2407.02, and 34-2413.10 [repealed] are hereby declared to be cumulative and not exclusive.
(May 18, 1954, 68 Stat. 102, ch. 218, title I, § 105.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1530.
1973 Ed., § 43-1521d.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 34-2110.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter V - Fireplug Tax › § 34–2409.01. Levy permitted

§ 34–2409.01. Levy permitted.
To aid in the erection, maintenance, and efficiency of fireplugs, a special annual tax may be levied on all buildings in the City of Washington within 500 feet of any main water pipe, into which, or the premises connected therewith, the water has not been introduced, and the owners or occupants of which do not pay any annual water rate in accordance with law.
(R.S., D.C., § 205.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1534.
1973 Ed., § 43-1525.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter V - Fireplug Tax › § 34–2409.02. Rates

§ 34–2409.02. Rates.
The fireplug tax shall be levied with reference to the value of the building so taxed, and shall not be more than $5 nor less than $1 per year.
(R.S., D.C., § 206.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1535.
1973 Ed., § 43-1526.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter V - Fireplug Tax › § 34–2409.03. Cessation upon introduction of water

§ 34–2409.03. Cessation upon introduction of water.
Whenever the water is introduced, in conformity with law, into any building or premises, the fireplug tax thereon shall cease.
(R.S., D.C., § 207.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1536.
1973 Ed., § 43-1527.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter V - Fireplug Tax › § 34–2409.04. Levy upon discontinuance of water service

§ 34–2409.04. Levy upon discontinuance of water service.
Whenever water is discontinued from any building or premises into which it has been introduced, such building shall be subject to the fireplug tax from the date of the discontinuance of the water.
(R.S., D.C., § 208.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 43-1537.
1973 Ed., § 43-1528.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 34 - Public Utilities › Chapter 24 - Water Supply, Assessments, and Rates › Subchapter V-A - Private Fire Hydrants › § 34–2410.01. Definitions

§ 34–2410.01. Definitions.
For the purposes of this subchapter, the term “private fire hydrant” means a hydrant which is not owned by the District of Columbia. The term “private fire hydrant” does not include any private water distribution system connecting the private fire hydrant to the public water system.
(Mar. 31, 2011, D.C. Law 18-337, § 2, 58 DCR 609.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2 of Private Fire Hydrant Responsibility Emergency Act of 2009 (D.C. Act 18-197, October 8, 2009, 56 DCR 8130).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2 of Private Fire Hydrant Responsibility Emergency Act of 2010 (D.C. Act 18-511, July 30, 2010, 57 DCR 7592).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2 of Private Fire Hydrant Responsibility Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2010 (D.C. Act 18-581, October 19, 2010, 57 DCR 10116).
Temporary Legislation
Section 2 of D.C. Law 18-93 added a section to read as follows: “Sec. 2. Private fire hydrants. ”As of October 1, 2009, the Mayor and any other District official is prohibited from approving any permit or related plan that authorizes the installation of a private fire hydrant without an agreement, to be recorded in the land records of the Recorder of Deeds, establishing the person or entity responsible for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of the private fire hydrant in perpetuity.”
Section 4(b) of D.C. Law 18-93 provided that the act shall expire after 225 days of its having taken effect.
Section 2 of D.C. Law 18-278 added a section to read as follows: “Sec. 2. Private fire hydrants. ”As of October 1, 2009, the Mayor and any other District official is prohibited from approving any permit or related plan that authorizes the installation of a private fire hydrant without an agreement, to be recorded in the land records of the Recorder of Deeds, establishing the person or entity responsible for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of the private fire hydrant in perpetuity.”
Section 4(b) of D.C. Law 18-278 provided that the act shall expire after 225 days of its having taken effect.