Drinking water carting

Emergency services and registered water carters can use water from our hydrants for various purposes, including dust suppression, domestic drinking water, firefighting, external pressure cleaning and construction.

Before you apply

Before you apply for a hydrant permit, you need to complete some important tasks. These tasks ensure your safety as well as the operation of important infrastructure.

1. Check that there is an appropriate backflow prevention device on your vehicle. This can be an air-gap or reduced pressure zone (RPZ) device.
2. Engage a licensed plumber accredited in backflow prevention devices to complete a backflow inspection and maintenance report.
3. Learn how to safely draw water from our hydrants on the Becoming a drinking water carter page. You'll need this information to answer the questions in the hydrant permit user card test.
4. Take the hydrant user questionnaire. You will need to answer the questions correctly.

Applying to become a water carter

When you've completed the tasks above, you can submit your application to become a registered water carter with us. We usually need at least 10 business days to process applications.

Complete the application form

For private drinking water carters

As part of your requirements under the Food Act 1984, water carters must register with their local council.

All vehicles included in the hydrant permit must also pass an annual backflow audit.

Find out more about private drinking water carters and water supply safety for food preparation from the Department of Health.