Summary as Introduced
Amends the Environmental Protection Act. Provides that, in the case of water main installation projects, all water main-related appurtenances, and specifically fire hydrants and valves, shall be included in the Agency's written approval of specified public water supply plans. Requires fire hydrants and valves to be designed and installed in accordance with specified standards.
Staff Analysis
House Amendment 1
House Amendment 1 to HB 3141 makes targeted changes to the Environmental Protection Act to clarify regulatory authority and installation standards for water main projects, especially those involving fire hydrants and related infrastructure.
Key Provisions:
1. Inclusion of Fire Hydrants and Valves in IEPA Permit Approvals
The amendment requires that all components of a water main installation project — including water mains, fire hydrants, and valves — that are:
• Owned and controlled by a public water supply, and
• Located in a public right-of-way or utility easement,
must be included in the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s (IEPA) written permit approval.
This ensures full agency oversight of such infrastructure within public jurisdiction.
2. Clarifies Regulatory Authority
The IEPA is designated as the sole authority for the design review and permitting of both water mains and fire hydrants. This removes ambiguity and may preempt overlapping reviews by other local or state entities.
3. Standards for Hydrants Connected to Plumbing Systems
The amendment also specifies that fire hydrants connected to a plumbing system must comply with:
• The Illinois Plumbing License Law, and
• Any rules and ordinances established under that law.
This distinction recognizes that while most hydrants are part of public water distribution systems, some may be tied into plumbing systems (e.g., on private property or commercial sites), and such cases fall under separate plumbing codes.
Potential Impact on Counties and Municipalities:
• Local Water Utilities: Will need to ensure that all components of water main projects — not just the pipes — are submitted for IEPA approval, potentially increasing administrative workload but ensuring more consistent public health and safety oversight.
• Coordination with IEPA: Counties and municipal governments may need to coordinate more closely with the IEPA in planning and permitting water infrastructure.
• Clarification of Jurisdiction: Local building departments and code enforcement will have clearer boundaries regarding which agency governs which parts of the system (IEPA for public systems; IDPH/local plumbing authorities for hydrants on plumbing systems).
• Uniform Standards: Promotes consistency in the design and installation of critical infrastructure like fire hydrants, which has implications for public safety and water quality.
Summary:
This amendment enhances regulatory clarity by making IEPA the sole permitting authority for water mains and hydrants within public rights-of-way and ensures compliance with state plumbing laws for hydrants connected to plumbing systems. It promotes uniformity in infrastructure design and could affect how counties and local governments plan, permit, and install water system components.