Notice to Keep Fire Hydrants Clear
November 20, 2025
Blocked hydrant access can be caused by many things. Parked cars, overgrown landscaping, snow piles, construction work, mobile cooking vehicles, just to name a few.
Snow accumulation and overgrown landscaping can quickly obstruct fire hydrants and block access from fire department vehicles. We all think about shoveling our driveways and front steps from snow, and mowing our lawns and cutting tree branches. However, we can't neglect our responsibility to ensure the fire department has the necessary access to water supply should they need to respond to a fire.
Fire code requires that a 36-inch clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants and a clear space of not less than 60 inches shall be provided in front of each hydrant connection having a diameter greater than 2 1/2 inches, except as otherwise required or approved.
This is to ensure that fire department pumper apparatus can park adjacent to a fire hydrant and connect a large-diameter hose to the pump inlet.
We all should take responsibility for clearing hydrants year-round. I'm sure we would all feel safer knowing that if a fire occurred in your home there is immediate and efficient access to a water supply for fire fighter operations. Take a look around your property or block and find your nearest fire hydrant. Can the fire department easily access it in an emergency?
For more detailed information on fire regulations, you can refer to the State Fire Marshal's guidelines or contact a Stratton Volunteer Fire Department Member for guidance.
