Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs): FIRE FLOW TESTING

What is a Fire Flow Test? A fire hydrant flow test is a process of flowing water out of at least one fire hydrant while obtaining the required pressures (static, residual, and pitot) needed to calculate the amount of water in gallons per minute (GPM) that the water system can provide between the tested hydrants.

How much does the Fire Flow Test cost? Please refer to the current FY2024 Taxes, Fees, and Charges on the City’s website: https://www.beverlyhills.org/departments/finance/taxesfeescharges/

How can I pay for a Fire Flow Test? One can pay for Fire Flow Testing through Utility Billing at (310) 285-2436.

What are the criteria for the test? The following entities may utilize fire hydrant flow test data for planning and design purpose: architects, civil engineers, fire protection engineers, mechanical engineers, city governments, fire departments, water purveyors, corporate and private contractors, City State and Federal municipalities, land developers, etc. During a fire emergency, reliable sources of water can mean the difference between life and death. This is why the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA) outlines fire hydrant testing procedures that measures real-world pressures and flows in a city’s water distribution system.

How can I request a Fire Flow test? The request for Fire Flow Testing can be made through Utility Billing at (310) 285-2436.

What is the turnaround time for fire flow requests? The whole process from start to finish may take from 7 to 14 business days.

How long does it take to get the result of a fire flow test? Typically, 7 business days after testing is completed.

What is the fire flow process from start to finish? After Utility Billing processes the payment from the customer, Public Works will be notified that payment has been received. A Water Technician will typically conduct testing within 7 business days and log the results. Public Works Administrative support will then email the results to the customer.

How will I be notified of the results? The results will be emailed to the customer email address provided typically within 7 business days following completion of fire flow testing.