How to apply

To obtain and use a standpipe, you must have a licence and apply using our service provider, Aquam.  You can apply for a new licence or renew your existing licence by visiting their website https://www.aquamcorp.co.uk/standpipe-hire/niwater.

Why do I need a Standpipe Licence

NI Water permit licensed customers with a legitimate need to obtain water from the public water main with a standpipe licence. This licence will allow, subject to any local operating restrictions (such as local or national hosepipe restrictions), authorised customers to draw water from hydrants using a portable standpipe.  

Using an unlicensed standpipe on a public hydrant is illegal and may result in prosecution and fines of up to £1,000. Only approved standpipes, fitted with backflow prevention, may be used on our network.

You can apply for a licence to cover daily, monthly or annual usage. Licence charges are payable in advance and depend on:

• The size of the standpipe (25mm or 63mm).
• The period for which the licence is required.  

Unauthorised standpipe use

You can report any suspected unauthorised standpipe connections by contacting Report Hydrant Misuse | Aquam Water Services.

It is an offence to take water from a hydrant by any means other than a licensed approved standpipe obtained from Aquam, on behalf of NI Water.  

Those who have a legitimate need may obtain a portable standpipe for drawing water on a temporary basis from a fire hydrant on a public water main system.

Privacy Information

NI Water and its appointed service provider may process personal data where necessary and proportionate to investigate, prevent or respond to suspected standpipe misuse, unauthorised connections, unlawful water abstraction, damage to NI Water assets, enforcement action, legal claims or prosecution. This may include contact and account details, usage and location records, reports of suspected misuse, photographs or images, vehicle details, DVLA-derived information, suspected-offender information, witness or reporter details, correspondence, investigation records and evidential material. Where this information relates to alleged offending or enforcement action, NI Water will apply additional safeguards, including restricted access, secure handling, audit controls, case-specific review, defined retention periods and secure deletion when no longer required. Information may be shared with NI Water’s service provider, legal advisers, enforcement bodies, regulators, DVLA, courts, tribunals or other competent authorities where lawful, necessary and proportionate