Bill > SB394

This bill addresses water theft from fire hydrants by expanding legal provisions to more effectively deter and penalize unauthorized water use. The legislation adds new provisions to the Civil Code and Government Code that specifically target theft from fire hydrants, which is typically conducted by commercial actors for profit. The bill allows utilities to bring civil actions against individuals who tamper with fire hydrants or divert water without authorization, and creates a legal presumption of water theft in certain circumstances. Local agencies are now authorized to adopt ordinances prohibiting unauthorized fire hydrant connections, with escalating administrative fines for violations: first violations can result in fines up to $2,500, second violations up to $5,000, and third or subsequent violations up to $10,000. The bill emphasizes that such theft undermines water conservation efforts, can potentially contaminate drinking water sources, damage water infrastructure, and ultimately increases costs for ratepayers. Importantly, the legislation prevents local agencies from imposing duplicate fines for the same offense and maintains that other legal remedies remain available under existing laws.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB394