Water Theft Or Fire Hydrant Use Without A Permit Is A Crime.

5/2/23 Update- White Lake DPS just recorded evidence of illegal use of a fire hydrant on our treatment plant instrumentation. This happened somewhere in the north half of the water system connected to M-59. We can see pressure and flow indication at the plant but not where in the system the use happened. This type of illegal use is dangerous and will cause rusty water, low pressure and pressure spikes, watermain breaks, and damage to hydrants. If you see anyone other that Township personnel using a fire hydrant please report it immediatly by calling 911. Violators that we catch will be prosecuted.

How to Spot Theft

Water theft from fire hydrants occurs most often when the user does not have a metered connection.  To legally use water from a fire hydrant, the business or contractor must obtain a permit and meter assembly from DPS.  The meter assembly includes a backflow preventer. If you see water being used from a hydrant without a meter assembly, theft may be occurring.

Help Stop Water Theft

If you suspect water is being stolen from a fire hydrant or identify a water meter that has been bypassed or tampered with, please call 911 immediately or email apotter@whitelaketwp.com. Tampering with the water system or using a hydrant without a permit is a misdemeanor offense.