East Williston raises fines for unauthorized fire hydrant use

Unauthorized use of fire hydrants now carries a steep fine in East Williston.

On Monday, the village adopted new regulations for the opening of fire hydrants, including a substantial penalty for violations.

Fire hydrants may not be opened without obtaining a village permit in advance. The area to be opened will be designated by the village, or the hydrant must be opened in the presence of a village employee or the Superintendent of the Department of Public Works.

Unsanctioned use of village hydrants previously held a fine of $100 for each occurrence. Now, the fine has risen to $500 for a first-time offense, $1,000 for a second violation within a year, and $2,000 for a third violation in a year.

East Williston had experienced numerous incidents of fire hydrants being opened illegally, which caused water discoloration.