June 24, 2025

Illegally Opened Fire Hydrants Reduce Water Pressure, Make Firefighting More Difficult, Cause Discolored Water, and Waste 1,000 Gallons of Water Per Minute

With high temperatures expected to continue through Wednesday, June 25, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is warning New Yorkers about the dangers of illegally opening fire hydrants. Illegally opened hydrants release more than 1,000 gallons of water per minute, which can drastically reduce water pressure. This puts lives at risk by compromising firefighting operations and reducing water supply to residents and critical facilities. Illegally opening a fire hydrant can result in fines of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 30 days, or both. New Yorkers are urged to report leaking, running, or illegally opened hydrants by calling 311 immediately. Additionally, when hydrants are opened without proper tools, it can stir up sediments which results in discolored water. While not harmful, discolored water should not be consumed. Residents are advised to run their tap until the water is clear and cold.

To better manage this issue, DEP has deployed its mobile command bus to strategic locations across the city. This allows DEP to monitor open hydrant complaints, flow rates, and low water pressure reports in real time. Staffing levels have been increased to support hydrant patrol operations, enabling DEP to quickly dispatch field teams to close hydrants and assist the FDNY with any water-related issues.

Fire hydrants can be opened legally if fitted with a City-approved spray cap, which releases only 20 to 25 gallons per minute. This helps maintain water pressure and reduces the risk of someone, particularly a child, being injured by the force of the water. Spray caps can be requested by an adult 18 or over, free of charge, at local firehouses.

If you observe a running hydrant, please report it immediately by using the NYC 311 mobile app or by calling 311. Quick reporting helps DEP respond rapidly and maintain safe, reliable water service.

To report via the app:

• Open the NYC 311 app
• Tap “Request”
• Tap “Running Hydrant”
• Enter the location and submit

Or, simply call 311 and provide the location details.

DEP manages New York City’s water supply, providing approximately 1 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water each day to nearly 10 million residents, including 8.3 million in New York City. The water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the city, comprising 19 reservoirs and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs, and 7,500 miles of sewer lines and 96 pump stations take wastewater to 14 in-city treatment plants. DEP also protects the health and safety of New Yorkers by enforcing the Air and Noise Codes and asbestos rules. For more information, visit nyc.gov/dep, like us on Facebook, or follow us on X.