Frequently Asked Questions

Water meters and services up to 2 inches are installed by the City. A service request must be submitted to the City Development Services Division located at:
226 S 5th Street
1st Floor
Klamath Falls, OR 97601

Fees must be paid and specific location information completed before City crews will be dispatched to install a water service and/or meter. Fees will vary depending on meter size. Should you have questions about fees, please contact the Engineering Division at 541-883-5368.

Yes. If you have an underground irrigation system for your yard, fire suppression sprinkler system, boiler, pool/spa or water feature, state law requires that you get a backflow prevention assembly to prevent contaminated water from flow back into your drinking water-a serious health hazard. If you have questions please call 541-883-4956 to speak with our cross connection control specialist. A plumbing permit is required for all new installations and when altering existing plumbing. A permit may be obtained from the:
Klamath County Building Department
305 Main Street
1st Floor
Klamath Falls, OR 97601
Phone: 541-883-5121

The City is required by Oregon State Law to maintain a minimum of 20 pounds per square inch (psi) water pressure at all times and under all conditions. Current City Engineering Construction Standards require a minimum of 40 psi, however, in older existing area pressures may be lower due to undersized piping, area water demands and location/elevation of the service area.

A standard residential water meter is 5/8 inches and will flow up to 25 gallons of water per minute. The average home uses 314 gallons per day and 690 gallons per day during peak demand periods.

Your water could be discolored for the following reasons:

• A fire hydrant has been opened in a localized area.
• There is construction in a localized area.
• Increased seasonal demands in localized area.
• Naturally occurring minerals in the water source. Increased water velocity in the water lines may dislodge mineral sediment and/or pipe scale causing brown or reddish brown water. White deposits on faucets or other fixtures are generally caused by calcium carbonate which is a natural occurring mineral in the water. The amount of calcium carbonate in the water determines how hard or soft the water is and the City water tends to be soft or moderately soft throughout the system. The water is safe to drink, however a discolored water condition can cause staining of laundry or some plumbing fixtures.