DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES

CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH, VA

_________________________________________________________________

DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

_________________________________________________________________

Revised July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Table of Contents
July 2014

Table of Contents
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES ..................................................................................... 1
CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH, VA ................................................................................................ 1
DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL............................................................................................... 1
Revised March 2014 .................................................................................................................. 1
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................ 1
1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.1 Authority ................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Revisions .................................................................................................................. 1-1
1.3 Organization and Interpretation of Manual ................................................................ 1-1
1.4 Definitions ................................................................................................................. 1-1
1.5 Abbreviations ............................................................................................................ 1-4
1.6 Variance ................................................................................................................... 1-5
1.7 Specifications............................................................................................................ 1-5
1.7.1 Horizontal Construction Specifications (Division II - VII) ..................................... 1-5
1.7.2 Regional Construction Specifications ................................................................. 1-5
1.8 Standard Details ....................................................................................................... 1-6
1.9 Approved Products ................................................................................................... 1-6
1.10 References ............................................................................................................... 1-6
2 Development Coordination ............................................................................................... 2-1
2.1 Regulatory Requirements ......................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Planning.................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.1 Comprehensive Plan.......................................................................................... 2-1
2.2.2 Development Services Center ........................................................................... 2-1
2.2.3 Permits and Inspections ..................................................................................... 2-3
2.3 Public Utilities ........................................................................................................... 2-7
2.3.1 Private Development Related Sureties............................................................... 2-7
2.3.2 Inspections and Testing ..................................................................................... 2-7
2.3.3 Water and Sanitary Sewer Taps Program .......................................................... 2-7
2.3.4 Flow Acceptance (Sanitary Sewer Capacity)...................................................... 2-8
2.3.5 Fats, Oils, and Grease Requirements ................................................................ 2-9
2.3.6 Utility Easements ............................................................................................... 2-9
2.3.7 HRSD Coordination ......................................................................................... 2-10
2.3.8 City Procurement of Private Facilities............................................................... 2-10
2.3.9 Public Involvement ........................................................................................... 2-10
2.3.10 Submittals ........................................................................................................ 2-10

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2.4 Public Works ........................................................................................................... 2-14

2.4.1 Storm Water..................................................................................................... 2-14
2.4.2 Traffic .............................................................................................................. 2-15
2.4.3 Roadway.......................................................................................................... 2-15
2.4.4 Real Estate ...................................................................................................... 2-15
2.4.5 Surveys............................................................................................................ 2-15
2.5 Fire ......................................................................................................................... 2-16
3 Wastewater Collection System......................................................................................... 3-1
3.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.1 Consent Order Requirements ............................................................................ 3-1
3.1.2 City Code Requirements .................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.3 Construction Considerations .............................................................................. 3-2
3.1.4 Subsurface Investigations .................................................................................. 3-2
3.1.5 Inspections and Testing ..................................................................................... 3-2
3.1.6 Surface Water Crossings ................................................................................... 3-2
3.2 Wastewater Design Flows......................................................................................... 3-2
3.2.1 Average Daily Flows Based on Land Use .......................................................... 3-3
3.2.2 Peak Flow .......................................................................................................... 3-7
3.3 Gravity Sanitary Sewer Lines .................................................................................... 3-7
3.3.1 Depth ................................................................................................................. 3-8
3.3.2 Location ............................................................................................................. 3-8
3.3.3 Boring and Jacking ............................................................................................ 3-8
3.3.4 Acceptable Pipe Materials.................................................................................. 3-8
3.3.5 Pipe Sizing ......................................................................................................... 3-8
3.3.6 Slope and Velocity ............................................................................................. 3-9
3.3.7 Alignment........................................................................................................... 3-9
3.3.8 Corrosion Prevention ......................................................................................... 3-9
3.3.9 Sewer Main Connections at Manholes ............................................................... 3-9
3.3.10 Separation ......................................................................................................... 3-9
3.3.11 Buoyancy ......................................................................................................... 3-10
3.3.12 Trenching, Bedding, Backfill............................................................................. 3-10
3.3.13 Inspection and Testing ..................................................................................... 3-11
3.3.14 Aerial Crossings............................................................................................... 3-11
3.3.15 Conflict Structures ........................................................................................... 3-11
3.3.16 HRSD Gravity Sewer Interceptor ..................................................................... 3-11
3.4 Manholes ................................................................................................................ 3-11

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3.4.1 Manhole Depth ................................................................................................ 3-11

3.4.2 End of Line Requirement ................................................................................. 3-12
3.4.3 Manhole Locations ........................................................................................... 3-12
3.4.4 Manhole Spacing ............................................................................................. 3-12
3.4.5 Manhole Diameter ........................................................................................... 3-12
3.4.6 Connection to Manhole .................................................................................... 3-12
3.4.7 Manhole Separation from Water Mains ............................................................ 3-12
3.4.8 Drop Manholes ................................................................................................ 3-12
3.4.9 Bench and Flow Channel ................................................................................. 3-13
3.4.10 Water Tightness and Manhole Inserts .............................................................. 3-13
3.4.11 Corrosion Prevention ....................................................................................... 3-13
3.4.12 Inspections and Testing ................................................................................... 3-13
3.5 Service Connections ............................................................................................... 3-13
3.5.1 Service Connection Sizes ................................................................................ 3-14
3.5.2 Manhole Required at Right-of-Way .................................................................. 3-14
3.5.3 Service Connection Installation ........................................................................ 3-14
3.5.4 Inspection and Testing ..................................................................................... 3-14
3.6 Vacuum Sanitary Sewer Lines ................................................................................ 3-15
3.6.1 Materials .......................................................................................................... 3-15
3.6.2 Vacuum Pit and Valve...................................................................................... 3-16
3.6.3 Buffer Tanks .................................................................................................... 3-16
3.6.4 Vacuum Main Design ....................................................................................... 3-17
3.6.5 Gauge Taps ..................................................................................................... 3-17
3.6.6 Isolation Valves................................................................................................ 3-18
3.6.7 Inspections and Testing ................................................................................... 3-18
3.6.8 Vacuum Monitoring System Requirements ...................................................... 3-19
3.6.9 Odor Control .................................................................................................... 3-19
3.7 Wastewater Pump Stations ..................................................................................... 3-20
3.7.1 Location ........................................................................................................... 3-20
3.7.2 Type of Stations ............................................................................................... 3-21
3.7.3 Mechanical Design .......................................................................................... 3-22
3.7.4 Structural Design ............................................................................................. 3-24
3.7.5 Electrical Design .............................................................................................. 3-25
3.7.6 Architectural Design and Aesthetics ................................................................. 3-28
3.7.7 Odor Control .................................................................................................... 3-28
3.7.8 SCADA and Telemetry Requirements .............................................................. 3-28

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3.7.9 Inspections and Testing ................................................................................... 3-28

3.7.10 Operations and Maintenance Manual Requirements........................................ 3-29
3.7.11 Instrumentation Requirements ......................................................................... 3-29
3.7.12 Emergency Pump Connection ......................................................................... 3-29
3.7.13 Private Pump Stations ..................................................................................... 3-29
3.7.14 Miscellaneous .................................................................................................. 3-29
3.8 Force Mains ............................................................................................................ 3-29
3.8.1 Location ........................................................................................................... 3-30
3.8.2 Depth ............................................................................................................... 3-30
3.8.3 System Capacity and Hydraulic Design ........................................................... 3-30
3.8.4 Velocity ............................................................................................................ 3-30
3.8.5 Material Requirements ..................................................................................... 3-31
3.8.6 Corrosion Prevention ....................................................................................... 3-31
3.8.7 Thrust Protection Design ................................................................................. 3-31
3.8.8 Air Relief and Vacuum Intake........................................................................... 3-31
3.8.9 Markers............................................................................................................ 3-32
3.8.10 Anchorage ....................................................................................................... 3-32
3.8.11 Boring and Jacking .......................................................................................... 3-32
3.8.12 Standard Connection Requirements ................................................................ 3-32
3.8.13 Connection to Low Pressure Force Mains (LPFM) ........................................... 3-33
3.8.14 Inspections and Testing ................................................................................... 3-33
3.8.15 Connection to HRSD........................................................................................ 3-33
3.9 Wastewater Collection System Component Abandonment ..................................... 3-34
3.9.1 Gravity Sanitary Sewer Main ............................................................................ 3-34
3.9.2 Manholes ......................................................................................................... 3-34
3.9.3 Service Connections ........................................................................................ 3-34
3.9.4 Vacuum Sanitary Sewer Main and Service Pits ............................................... 3-35
3.9.5 Wastewater Pump Stations .............................................................................. 3-35
3.9.6 Force Mains ..................................................................................................... 3-35
4 Water Distribution and Transmission Systems ................................................................. 4-1
4.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1.1 Subdivision Ordinance ....................................................................................... 4-1
4.1.2 Master Plan Requirements................................................................................. 4-1
4.1.3 Pressure Zones ................................................................................................. 4-1
4.1.4 Subsurface Investigations .................................................................................. 4-1
4.1.5 Inspections and Testing ..................................................................................... 4-1

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4.1.6 Construction Considerations .............................................................................. 4-2

4.1.7 Surface Water Crossings ................................................................................... 4-2
4.2 Water Demand.......................................................................................................... 4-2
4.2.1 Domestic Demand ............................................................................................. 4-2
4.2.2 Fire Flow Demand ............................................................................................. 4-2
4.2.3 Other ................................................................................................................. 4-3
4.3 Water Main Criteria ................................................................................................... 4-3
4.3.1 Jurisdictional Agency Approvals ........................................................................ 4-3
4.3.2 Service Connections .......................................................................................... 4-3
4.3.3 Alignment and Easement Requirements ............................................................ 4-5
4.3.4 Water Main Extensions ...................................................................................... 4-5
4.3.5 Water Main Classifications ................................................................................. 4-5
4.3.6 Hydraulic Requirements ..................................................................................... 4-5
4.3.7 Thrust Restraint ................................................................................................. 4-6
4.3.8 Corrosion Prevention ......................................................................................... 4-7
4.3.9 Separation ......................................................................................................... 4-7
4.3.10 Start-Up and Commissioning Period .................................................................. 4-8
4.3.11 Inspections and Testing ..................................................................................... 4-8
4.3.12 Record Drawings ............................................................................................... 4-8
4.4 Distribution Design Criteria ....................................................................................... 4-8
4.4.1 Location/Alignment ............................................................................................ 4-9
4.4.2 Depth ................................................................................................................. 4-9
4.4.3 Valve Spacing Requirement............................................................................... 4-9
4.4.4 Fire Hydrant Requirements ................................................................................ 4-9
4.4.5 Line Valves ...................................................................................................... 4-10
4.4.6 Restraint Systems ............................................................................................ 4-10
4.4.7 Air Release ...................................................................................................... 4-10
4.4.8 Inspections and testing .................................................................................... 4-10
4.4.9 Cross Connections and Backflow Prevention ................................................... 4-10
4.4.10 Water Distribution System Plan Requirements – Checklist .............................. 4-11
4.5 Transmission Mains - Design Criteria...................................................................... 4-11
4.5.1 Location/Alignment .......................................................................................... 4-11
4.5.2 Depth ............................................................................................................... 4-11
4.5.3 Line Valves and Spacing ................................................................................. 4-11
4.5.4 Restraint Systems ............................................................................................ 4-11
4.5.5 Air/Vacuum Valve Assemblies ......................................................................... 4-11

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4.5.6 Appurtenant Facilities ...................................................................................... 4-12

4.5.7 Design Survey Requirements .......................................................................... 4-12
4.5.8 Inspections and Testing ................................................................................... 4-12
4.5.9 Transmission Main Plan Requirements – Checklist.......................................... 4-12
4.6 Fire Line Systems ................................................................................................... 4-12
4.6.1 Acceptable Pipe Materials................................................................................ 4-12
4.6.2 Design Requirements ...................................................................................... 4-13
4.7 Irrigation Systems and Water Features ................................................................... 4-13
4.7.1 Design Requirements ...................................................................................... 4-13
4.7.2 Landscape Water Permit ................................................................................. 4-13
4.7.3 Limitations on Water Use ................................................................................. 4-13
4.8 Backflow Prevention ............................................................................................... 4-13
4.8.1 Reduced Pressure Zone Devices..................................................................... 4-13
4.8.2 Detector Checks .............................................................................................. 4-14
4.9 Water System/Component Abandonment ............................................................... 4-14
4.10 Construction Meters ................................................................................................ 4-14
4.10.1 Hydrant Meter Program ................................................................................... 4-15
4.10.2 Construction Meter (residential) ....................................................................... 4-15
5 Other Water Facilities....................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1.1 Water Production Facilities Criteria .................................................................... 5-1
5.1.2 Jurisdictional Agency Approvals ........................................................................ 5-1
5.1.3 Environmental, Biological and Cultural Assessment........................................... 5-1
5.1.4 Project Site Requirements ................................................................................. 5-1
5.1.5 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)........................................... 5-2
5.1.6 Electrical Design ................................................................................................ 5-2
5.1.7 Piping Systems .................................................................................................. 5-3
5.1.8 Valves ................................................................................................................ 5-3
5.1.9 Flow Metering .................................................................................................... 5-4
5.1.10 Operations and Maintenance Manual Requirements.......................................... 5-4
5.1.11 Inspections and Testing ..................................................................................... 5-4
5.1.12 Record Drawings ............................................................................................... 5-4
5.2 Pumping Facilities ..................................................................................................... 5-4
5.2.1 Pumping Units and Size ..................................................................................... 5-4
5.2.2 Design Criteria ................................................................................................... 5-4
5.2.3 Inspections and Testing ..................................................................................... 5-5

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5.3 Wells ......................................................................................................................... 5-5

5.3.1 Construction Materials ....................................................................................... 5-5
5.3.2 Design Criteria ................................................................................................... 5-5
5.3.3 Additional Design Requirements ........................................................................ 5-6
5.3.4 Abandoned Wells ............................................................................................... 5-6
5.4 Water Storage Facilities ............................................................................................ 5-6
5.4.1 Construction Materials ....................................................................................... 5-6
5.4.2 Storage Capacity ............................................................................................... 5-6
5.4.3 Design Criteria ................................................................................................... 5-6
5.4.4 Coatings ............................................................................................................ 5-7
5.4.5 Chlorination System Requirements .................................................................... 5-7
Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes ................................................. A
Public Input for Public Utilities Projects – PU AP/DO 1000 ......................................................... A
Developer Credit Review Board – PU/ENG 1101 ....................................................................... A
Sizing Water Meters and Service Lines – PU SOP/ENG 1182 ................................................... A
Appendix B – Standard Legend for Record Drawings ................................................................ B

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 Section 1 - Introduction
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1 Introduction
The purpose of the Design Standards Manual is to provide conformity to the design and review
of public water and wastewater utility improvements that are to be owned and maintained by the
City of Virginia Beach, Department of Public Utilities.

This manual replaces any earlier version of the Department’s Design Standards Manual or
Design Guidelines Manual. It is intended to be used with the current edition of the City of
Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities Standard Details; the City of Virginia Beach
Amendments to the Virginia Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications,
2007; and the Department’s Approved Products List.

The sections of this manual identify routine or standard design assumptions and practices used
and accepted by the Department. This document is a compilation of widely accepted design
practices and standards presently in use throughout the professional engineering and water and
wastewater communities. Special or unique design situations must be addressed on a case by
case basis.

The Department strives for continuous improvement. Comments or suggestions for the
improvement of this document are welcomed. Please send comments or suggestions to Mr.
R.H. Nettleton, P.E., Design & Construction Manager, Department of Public Utilities
([email protected]).

1.1 Authority

1. The design standards set forth in this manual are adopted pursuant to the authority
granted in the Virginia Beach City Code - Chapter 2 of the Charter.

1.2 Revisions

1. This manual may be modified and updated periodically. Proposed revisions will be
available for review on the City of Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities website
for a period of 60 days unless the revision is required to be in compliance with pertinent
laws, regulations, ordinances, or codes governed by the Federal, State or City
government.

1.3 Organization and Interpretation of Manual

1. This manual provides written engineering standards, links and references to standards
established by other organizations and agencies, and Standard Details of the City of
Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities. The Design and Construction Manager of
the Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities will have the authority to make binding
and controlling interpretations of sections or differences between sections.

1.4 Definitions

Capital Improvement Program (CIP)

A project funded under the City of Virginia Beach Capital Improvement Program

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City
The City of Virginia Beach

Comprehensive Plan
The Comprehensive Plan is a Department of Planning document consolidating the major
elements of various planning reports and establishing an overall guide for the City of Virginia
Beach's zoning and plan of growth

Control Center
The Department’s central facility utilized in monitoring the public sanitary sewer pumping
stations, the water pumping stations, storage facilities, and monitoring points

Department of Planning
The Department of Planning facilitates the land use planning and development process in the
City of Virginia Beach.

Department of Public Utilities (DPU)

The Department of Public Utilities provides public water, including water for fire protection and
public sanitary sewer services, to the urban areas of the City of Virginia Beach.

Department of Public Works (DPW)

The Department of Public Works provides total life cycle management of the public
infrastructure and key essential services.

Developer
Any property owner, or any person or group with written authorization from the property owner,
who intends to improve or to construct improvements upon a given property

Development Services Center (DSC)

The DSC is a division of the Planning Department responsible for the coordination of the review
and approval of the following land development related items: commercial site plan, subdivision
plats, redevelopment/infill residential site plans, residential and commercial site plans located
within the Resource Protection Area (RPA) of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area (CBPA).
In addition, the DSC issues Land Disturbing Activity/Storm water Management Permits, Right-
of-Way Permits (associated with plans approved by the DSC), and manages private
development related sureties (bonds, letters-of-credit, and cash).

Distribution Main
A water main less than 12” in diameter used for distributing water within a specific area or
region of a water system

Engineer
The engineering consultant, tasked with the design of a project by the Department or Developer

Interceptor Force Main

A force main that receives flows from one or more sewage force mains and conveys such flows
to a point for treatment or disposal

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Lateral
The pipe or conduit conveying wastewater in a gravity sewer from a property to the public
gravity sewer system and has no other common sewer tributary to it

Main
(i.e. water, gravity sanitary sewer, vacuum, force) means a gravity, vacuum, or pressure pipe
that conveys water or wastewater from one point to another

Peer review
The review of construction plans by various agencies and divisions of the City of Virginia Beach
as determined and coordinated by the Project Manager

Private Force Main

Refers to any force main that is privately owned and maintained

Private Utilities
Refers to any gravity sewer, force main, sewage treatment plant or water supply system that
serves residential subdivisions or other groups of uses or structures and is not owned and
maintained by the Department

Project Area
The area where work is to be performed either by the City of Virginia Beach or a developer

Project Cost
The total dollar amount required for funding a project including engineering study, design, right-
of-way and /or easement acquisition, construction costs, and contingencies. Developer projects
shall also include a cost for inspection and support.

Project Inspector
The Department construction inspector assigned to a project for constructing CIP or developer
projects

Project Manager
The Department engineer assigned to a CIP project for planning, design or construction

Public Sanitary Sewer System

Any sanitary sewer facility or line owned and maintained by the Department

Public Water System

Any water facility or line owned and maintained by the Department

Service Line
A pipe or conduit conveying water from a water distribution main to the water meter of any
individual property

Sewage Collection and Treatment Regulations (SCAT)

The Commonwealth of Virginia Sewage Collection and Treatment Regulations govern the
design, construction and operation of sewerage systems and treatment works serving more
than one residence or a non-residential sewage source.

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Shall
Means a mandatory requirement

Site Plan
The detailed drawings indicating all building layout, land improvements including landscape
treatments, drainage, grading, utilities, right-of-way improvements, erosion control and details
which may be required by city ordinance

Transmission Main
A transmission main is a water or force main, used for conveyance from one area or region of
the system to another. Water transmission mains are generally 12-inch diameter and larger.
Many sewerage transmission mains in the City are owned and operated by HRSD.

Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ)

The Department of Environmental Quality administers state and federal laws and regulations for
air quality, water quality, water supply and waste management.

1.5 Abbreviations

AWWA
American Water Works Association

CAD
Computer Aided Design

CIP
Capital Improvement Program

DPU
Department of Public Utilities

DPW
Department of Public Works

DSC
Development Services Center

HRPDC
Hampton Roads Planning District Commission

HRSD
Hampton Roads Sanitation District

RTS
Regional Technical Standards

SCAT
Sewage Collection and Treatment

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VDEQ
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality

VDOT
The Virginia Department of Transportation

VDH
The Virginia Department of Health

1.6 Variance

1. All utility infrastructure (water, gravity sanitary sewer, vacuum sanitary sewer, force
main, pump stations, various appurtenances) whether DPU or Developer built, shall
adhere to these Design Standards, including any Special Provisions or Amendments.

2. The DPU provides an opportunity for the Developer and/or Engineer to request a
variance from the Design Standards where appropriate and justifiable to the individual
situation. For consideration, the design Engineer must submit the variance request with
complete documentation and justifiable support (see Section 2.3.10.5 of this manual for
details regarding the variance process).

3. The DPU will consider each request on an individual case-by-case basis. Thus, an
approved variance of the Design Standards for one project may not be approved for
another project. The DPU divisions of Engineering, Operations, and Business will, as
appropriate, consider the variance request and the potential impacts before approval or
denial by the DPU Director.

1.7 Specifications

1. This section describes the following specifications:

a. Horizontal Construction Specifications

b. Regional Construction Specifications

1.7.1 Horizontal Construction Specifications (Division II - VII)

1. Horizontal construction specifications are located in a document titled, “City of Virginia

Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of Transportation Road and Bridge
Specifications, 2007”, located on the City’s DPU website.

1.7.2 Regional Construction Specifications

1. Regional design specifications are located in the Hampton Roads Planning District
Commission (HRPDC) Regional Construction Standards, located on the HRPDC
website. The Regional Construction Standards are a reference document comprised of
Regional Technical Specifications and Standard Details. If there are conflicts between

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the Regional Construction Standards and the City’s DPU Design Standards, the City’s
DPU Design Standards shall supersede. Project specific details are to be coordinated
with the City of Virginia Beach.

1.8 Standard Details

1. Applicable standard details are located on the City DPU website in a document titled,
“City of Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities Standard Details”, published
April 13, 2001.

1.9 Approved Products

1. The products which have been approved by the Product Selection Committee are found
on the Approved Products List on the City’s DPU website. The list provides approved
products organized by type as well as by manufacturer.

1.10 References

1. The following documents shall serve as a suggested, though not exhaustive, list of
references:

a. ACI 211 – Guide for Submittal of Concrete Proportions

b. ACI 212 – Chemical Admixtures for Concrete
c. ACI 301 – Specifications for Structural Concrete
d. ACI 318 – Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete
e. ACI 350 – Wastewater Facilities
f. ACI 530-02 Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures
g. American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
h. AWWA – Distribution System Requirements for Fire Protection (M31)/ISO
i. AWWA – Distribution Valves: Selection, Installation, Field Testing, and Maintenance
(M44)
j. AWWA – Ductile-Iron Pipe and Fitting (M41)
k. AWWA – Manual M11 Harness Restraint
l. AWWA – Manual #32, "Distribution Network Analysis for Water Utilities"
m. AWWA – Standard D-100, "Welded Steel Tanks for Water Storage"
n. AWWA – Sizing Water Services Lines & Meters (M22)
o. AWWA – Water Meters - Selection, Installation, Testing and Maintenance (M6)
p. City of Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities - Comprehensive Water Study
(July 1991)
q. DIPRA – Thrust Restraint and Corrosion Protection
r. Fair, Geyer, & Okum – Water Supply & Wastewater Removal
s. Great Lakes – Upper Mississippi River Board of State Public Health & Environmental
Managers - Recommended Standards for Wastewater Facilities
t. Hydraulic Institute – Engineering Data Book Standards
u. National Electric Code (NEC)

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v. National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)

w. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Handbook
x. National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International Standard
y. Sanks – Pumping Station Design, 2nd Edition
z. "Standards of Hydraulic Institute"
aa. Standard Rules of American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE)
bb. The Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations
cc. The Commonwealth of Virginia Sewer Collection and Treatment Regulations
dd. The Society for Protective Coatings
ee. Uni-Bell Plastic Pipe Association – Handbook of PVC Pipe
ff. Water Environment Federation (WEF) – Design of Wastewater and Stormwater
Pumping Stations (MOP FD -4)
gg. WEF – Gravity Sanitary Sewer Design and Construction (MOP FD-5)

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2 Development Coordination

2.1 Regulatory Requirements

1. The design of public utility water and sanitary sewer systems shall be prepared and
certified in accordance with Title 54.1, Chapter 4 of the Code of Virginia, or as amended.

2. When the project design is under the jurisdiction of other State or Federal agencies and
the design requirements are in conflict, the more restrictive requirements shall govern.

3. Sanitary sewer, sewage pump station, and sewer force main designs shall conform to
the Commonwealth of Virginia "Sewage Collection and Treatment Regulations” (SCAT
Regulations), and the requirements of the DPU, whichever is more restrictive.

4. Water distribution main, transmission main, water pumping station, and water storage
facility designs shall conform to the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations
and the requirements of the DPU, whichever is more restrictive.

2.2 Planning

1. This section provides information on the following aspects of the planning process:

a. Comprehensive Plan
b. Development Services Center
c. Permits and Inspections

2.2.1 Comprehensive Plan

1. Refer to the City’s Comprehensive Plan on the City’s Department of Planning 2009
Comprehensive Plan – Process and Adoption webpage for information.

2.2.2 Development Services Center

1. Refer to the City’s Department of Planning webpage which provides information on the
Development Services Center (DSC).

2.2.2.1 Review Processes, Forms, Fees and Documents

1. This section provides information on the following review processes, forms, fees and
documents:

a. Information Notices
b. Legal Documents
c. Processes
d. Submittal Checklists
e. Surety Documents
f. Pump and Utility Connection Fees
g. Review Fees

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2.2.2.1.1 Information Notices

1. DSC Information Notices are provided to assist our customers by notifying them of
changes to policies, standards, processes, procedures and general information related
to the land development plan, plat and document review and approval processes. The
information contained in these Notices, including staff members and contacts, is subject
to change without notice. Refer to the DSC Information Notices webpage for a list of the
current notices.

2.2.2.1.2 Legal Documents

1. The standard legal documents referenced are provided by the Development Services
Center (DSC) to assist our customers in meeting the land development plan, plat or
document approval requirements. The documents listed are subject to change without
notice. Any changes to the wording or format of these documents will require additional
legal review by the City Attorney’s staff. This additional review is likely to cause delays to
the plan review process. Refer to the Fillable Forms – Applications, Checklists, Fees,
Legal Documents, and Surety Documents webpage for a list of the current legal
documents.

2.2.2.1.3 Processes

1. The documents listed are land development related processes used during the review
and approval of plans and plats by the Development Services Center (DSC). These are
subject to change without notice. Refer to the Development Plan/Plat Related
Processes webpage for a list of the current land development related processes.

2.2.2.1.4 Submittal Checklists

1. The documents listed are standard Submittal Checklists required by the Development
Services Center (DSC) for the review of most land development plans, plats and
documents. The documents listed are subject to change without notice. Refer to the
Fillable Forms – Applications, Checklists, Fees, Legal Documents, and Surety
Documents webpage for a list of the current submittal checklists.

2.2.2.1.5 Surety Documents

1. The standard surety documents referenced are provided by the Development Services
Center (DSC) to assist our customers in meeting the surety requirements associated
with land development plan, plat and permit approval requirements. The documents
listed are subject to change without notice. Any changes to the wording or format of
these documents will require additional legal review by the City Attorney’s staff. This
additional review is likely to cause delays. Refer to the Fillable Forms – Applications,
Checklists, Fees, Legal Documents, and Surety Documents webpage for a list of the
current surety documents.

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2.2.2.1.6 Pump and Utility Connection Fees

1. The City’s DPU Rates, Fees & Charges webpage provides information regarding water
and sewer rates and pump and utility connection fees. The rates, fees, and charges are
levied in accordance with the Virginia Beach City Code.

2.2.2.1.7 Review Fees

1. The City’s Department of Planning, Fillable Forms – Applications, Checklists, Fees,

Legal Documents, and Surety Documents webpage, provides information regarding
applicable DSC Review Fees.

2.2.3 Permits and Inspections

1. This section provides information regarding permits and inspections as they pertain to:

a. Right-of-Way Requirements
b. Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Requirements

2.2.3.1 Right-of-Way Requirements

1. The sub-sections below describe the following aspects of Right-of-Way requirements:

a. Permit Application Requirements

b. Application Drawing
c. Review
d. Installation

2.2.3.1.1 Permit Application Requirements

1. City right-of-way permits are administered by the Department of Planning/Permits and

Inspections and the DSC (Right-of-Way Permits associated with development plans
approved by the DSC). A complete copy of the review sheet from Permits & Inspections
is routed to the DPU for comments. Public Utilities will review each review sheet in
relation to the City’s water and sanitary sewer infrastructure including Hampton Road
Sanitation District (HRSD) infrastructure. Comments are returned to Permit &
Inspections for consideration.

2. When emergency work is required, the permitee must contact Public

Utilities/Engineering by telephone (757-385-4171) and provide the location of the
emergency with the right-of-way permit number assigned by Permits & Inspections
before work commences. A faxed notification sheet shall also be sent to Public
Utilities/Engineering (757-385-5778) with the permit number and location noted. A permit
application and drawing (see Section 2.2.3.1.2 of this manual) will be required within
fourteen (14) days of emergency call in.

Applications routed to DPU for review must contain the following information:

a. Company name

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b. Company phone number

c. Company address
d. Contact person name and phone number
e. Contractor name and phone number
f. Type and description of work (including linear footage) to be performed (be specific)
g. Number of test holes and/or number and sizes of open cuts.
h. Street address / location of work and nearest cross street.
i. Indicate whether proposed utility work is within the limits of a CIP. If yes, provide CIP
job number.

2.2.3.1.2 Application Drawing

1. Drawings submitted with a permit application (including emergency work permits) may
be on existing site plans, record drawings, drawn by CAD, or manually drawn. All
drawings shall be neat and legible.

Note: The use of existing drawings will not eliminate any requirements listed in item 3
below.

2. Scaled drawings are not required but the drawing shall be adequately sized to show the
degree of congestion within the limits of all proposed work and all existing utilities.

3. Drawings must show the following for Public Utilities review:

a. All proposed private utilities (clearly labeled and highlighted)

b. Property line or right-of-way line (labeled P/L or R/W)
c. Horizontal distance between right-of-way line (R/W) or public easement line to the
nearest existing public utility, horizontal distance between existing public utilities and
all proposed utilities (must be referenced from edge of pavement)
d. Edge of pavement and driveways (labeled EOP and DW)
e. All water mains, detector checks, fire hydrants, water valves, water meter, gravity
sanitary sewer mains, manholes, gravity sanitary sewer services with clean out (if
available), sanitary sewer force mains (including HRSD force mains), force main
valves, vacuum sanitary sewer mains, valve pits, and service lines
f. Diameter of all existing water mains, sanitary sewer mains, force mains, sanitary
sewer service laterals, and water services within the proposed work area
g. The starting point and point of termination of the proposed private utility or the point
where the utility crosses out of the city right-of-way or easement, i.e. from pedestal to
pole or from pole to property line
h. Linear footage of all private proposed utilities within the City’s right-of-way i.e.
including, cable, conduit or piping
i. North arrow
j. Match line station or sheet number, if applicable
k. Street name with addresses and nearest cross street name
l. Show all public utility easements within proposed work area

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2.2.3.1.3 Review

1. The DPU will make every effort to review and return comments to Permits & Inspections
within five (5) business days. Additional review time may be necessary as a result of
permit volume. DPU reviewers shall notify Permits & Inspections prior to, or on the fifth
day, when more review time is required.

2.2.3.1.4 Installation

1. All work site locations shall be faxed (757-385-5778) to the Public Utilities’ Engineering
Division no later than 9:00 a.m., daily.

2. Proposed utility depth requirements must adhere to the Code of Virginia Section § 56-
265.26:1, found in the Virginia Professional Excavator’s Manual.

3. Private utility installations must maintain a minimum 24-inch (2 foot) vertical edge-to-
edge separation and a minimum 36-inch (3 feet) edge-to-edge horizontal separation
from all water and sanitary sewer utilities that are at a depth less than six (6) feet. The
vertical separation of 2 feet is allowed only when all proposed utilities are installed
utilizing non-mechanized equipment.

There shall be a minimum of 18-inches edge-to-edge of vertical separation between

water and sanitary sewer utilities with 10 feet of horizontal separation.

When water and sanitary sewer utilities are at a depth greater than six (6) feet, the
required horizontal and vertical separation distance will be increased. Additionally, the
diameter of water and sanitary sewer utilities may increase horizontal and vertical
separation distance.

4. When crossing over or under water and sanitary sewer utilities, the Contractor is
required to comply with Section 20VAC5-309-150 titled "Requirements for Trenchless
Excavation" found in the Virginia Professional Excavator's Manual. These rules
delineate procedures used by the State Corporation Commission to enforce the
Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act. The requirement states, "The excavator
shall visually check the drill head as it passes through pot holes, entrances, and exit pits;
and if the depth indicated by the locating device is lower than the bottom of the pot hole
or pit, the excavator shall cease boring until the hole/pit can be hand excavated further
to maintain a visual inspection of the drill head."

Contractors installing private utilities must notify the DPU Engineering Division twenty-
four (24) hours in advance to request an appointment for utility depth verification. A
Public Utilities Engineering Technician must record the observed depth of all water and
sanitary sewer utilities and approve the vertical separation between the DPU utility and
the proposed utility. At no time shall the drill head be allowed to pass any utility owned
by the DPU with less than 24-inches of separation.

For utilities such as deep gravity sanitary sewer mains where performing depth
verification by test hole method is not feasible, visually checking the drill head passing
through the test hole may not be enforced. The contractor must obtain prior approval

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and an approved depth (in writing) from the DPU before crossing water and sanitary
sewer utilities if a test hole is not performed.

The Department of Public Utilities reserves the right to request additional utility depth
verification (test holes) as needed. Permitee shall contact Permits & Inspections for field
change authorization.

5. Private utilities shall not cross Public Utilities’ water and sanitary sewer facilities
diagonally. All crossings must be perpendicular.

6. The HRSD Interceptor Engineer shall be notified (757-460-7015) forty-eight (48) hours
prior to crossing HRSD force mains.

7. Contractor must have a complete copy of the approved right-of-way permit on site,
including all attachments and addendums, and a cleared Miss Utility ticket for the
permitted work.

8. Contractor must have a complete copy of the Virginia Professional Excavator’s Manual
on site at all times and must be familiar with the Underground Utility Damage Prevention
Act.

9. Notify Miss Utility (811) at least forty-eight (48) hours before beginning any installation /
construction. The 48-hour period begins at 7:00 a.m. the next day after notifying Miss
Utilities. Do not excavate if there is clear evidence of unmarked utilities.

10. If conflicts are discovered between proposed private utilities and existing water and
sewer utilities, work shall not commence until all field changes are approved by the City.
Please refer to the Department of Planning Permits & Inspections Division for Field
Revision Guidelines.

Note:
The Department of Public Utilities reserves the right to stop work and require a revision if
field conditions and / or field changes impact water and sanitary sewer utilities.

11. If damage to water or sanitary sewer infrastructure occurs, the Contractor or authorized
representative shall notify Public Utilities Engineering Division (757-385-4171) and the
Operations Division (757-385-1400). The private utility company acquiring the permit
shall be held responsible for damages due to negligence and the cost associated with
the repairs made by Public Utilities.

Note: Contractors shall exercise extreme caution when working around vacuum sanitary
sewer systems. Damaging one related service can result in a major service outage.
Tracer wire and marking tape are buried with all vacuum sanitary sewer piping. If tracer
wire is damaged, notify the Operations Division at the number listed above. If marking
tape is damaged, Contractor shall replace in kind. Do not attempt to repair any piping,
wires, or related appurtenances and do not backfill until notified to do so by Public
Utilities. Backfilling may be permitted only if unsafe conditions exist and damaged
location is flagged or labeled.

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2.2.3.2 Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Requirements

1. The City’s Department of Planning Permits & Inspections – Forms, Fees & Procedures
webpage provides information regarding requirements for plumbing, mechanical and
electrical permits and inspections.

2.3 Public Utilities

1. The City’s Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is primarily concerned with the provision
of water and sanitary sewer services to residents. More information about the DPU can
be found at the City’s DPU website.

2. The sub-sections listed below provide information pertaining to the following functions of
the DPU:

a. Private Development Related Sureties

b. Inspections and Testing
c. Water and Sanitary Sewer Taps Program
d. Flow Acceptance (Sanitary Sewer Capacity)
e. Fats, Oils, and Grease Requirements
f. Utility Easements
g. HRSD Coordination
h. City Procurement of Private Facilities
i. Public Involvement
j. Submittals

2.3.1 Private Development Related Sureties

1. The Planning Department/DSC coordinates the review, acceptance, management, and

release of land development sureties associated with development plans and plats
approved by the DSC.

2.3.2 Inspections and Testing

1. Inspections and testing shall be governed by Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia
Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of Transportation Road and Bridge
Specifications, 2007, Section 105 and Section 106 of the HRPDC Regional Construction
Standards, Section 270 of the Commonwealth of Waterworks Regulations, and the
Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations. The most applicable and most restrictive
standard shall govern.

2.3.3 Water and Sanitary Sewer Taps Program

1. The DPU offers the installation of both water service and sanitary sewer service within
the public right-of-way for single-family homes and duplexes. The homeowner/builder
has the choice of selecting either DPU, which uses a competitive bid process for
selecting their utility contractor, or their own private licensed utility contractor. In either
case, the homeowner/builder bears the responsibility of the construction costs
associated with the installation, relocation, removal, and abandonment of water and

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sanitary sewer utility service(s) and the preparation and submittal of a site plan to the
DSC for approval.

2. The homeowner/builder must choose either the DPU or a private licensed utility
contractor for the installation and relocation of water services and sanitary sewer
services. The DPU will no longer install one of the services while a private contractor
installs and/or relocates the other service(s).

3. Should the owner/developer wish to have a private contractor install these taps, a right-
of-way permit must be obtained through the DSC before any Public Utility fees may be
paid in the Business Office.

2.3.4 Flow Acceptance (Sanitary Sewer Capacity)

1. The Sanitary Sewer Flow Acceptance Process is required when one of the following
criteria for a Flow Acceptance Letter is met:

a. Average flow is greater than 40,000 gallons per day (gpd)

b. Pumped connection to gravity with average design flows of greater than
2,000 gallons per day (gpd)
c. Pumped connections to pressurized system
d. Vacuum systems

2. Recent concerns identified by the Regional Consent Order from the Virginia Department
of Environmental Quality (VDEQ) and the United States Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), have prompted the localities within the Hampton Roads area to take a
closer look at their Sanitary Sewer Flow Acceptance Process. The City of Virginia Beach
Department of Public Utilities (DPU) and Development Services Center (DSC) partnered
together to create a flowchart for projects that require a Request for Hampton Roads
Sanitation District (HRSD) Certification, HRSD Flow Acceptance Letter, City Flow
Acceptance Letter and a VDEQ Certificate to Construct (CTC). The flow chart detailing
the flow acceptance process is provided in Appendix A.

3. Improvements to the public systems shall be sized such that the existing system
capacity is not exceeded. Where appropriate, up-sizing for future system demand
should be incorporated to provide for logical, cost effective and efficient system
extensions.

4. The system demand computation and design shall be based on the City's
Comprehensive Plan, existing use, or existing zoning, whichever is greater. An analysis
shall be prepared tabulating numbers and types of structures served or proposed to be
served. Service area boundaries must be identified.

5. Developers are required to provide facilities with capacity sufficient for the type of
development proposed and so related to existing or potential surrounding development
as to form a logical part of a coordinated system. The City may have the developer "up-
size" or deepen facilities to accommodate future customers through a developer Cost
Participation Agreement where the City pays for the additional costs of the
accommodation for future needs or existing needs on or off-site.

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6. Refer to City Administrative Policy No. PU AP/ENG 1114 in Appendix A for information
regarding the DPU policy for conditional flow acceptance.

2.3.5 Fats, Oils, and Grease Requirements

1. Refer to the City’s DPU website for information pertaining to the Fats, Oils, and Grease
(FOG) Program and associated requirements.

2.3.6 Utility Easements

1. All utilities and their appurtenances owned and maintained by the DPU shall be located
in the public right-of-way, City owned property, or permanent public utility easements.

2. Construction plans with proposed public utilities located on City property shall show
those appurtenances in an appropriately sized easement indicated as future along with a
note stating that upon change of ownership the future easement shall be converted into
a recorded permanent public utilities easement.

3. Permanent public utility easements may be appropriate when there is no feasible right-
of-way alternative available, but must be reviewed and approved by the DPU variance
process. Ductile iron pipe is required for any public utility main placed within an
easement. Note that buildable lot areas currently exclude any easement over twenty
(20) feet.

4. A thirty (30) foot wide easement is required when one (1) of the following criteria is met
for placement of public utility mains in a permanent public utilities easement: the public
utility main has greater than six (6) foot of cover, it is a force main with a diameter of
twelve (12) inches or larger, or there are dual public utility mains each with less than six
foot of cover.

5. A twenty (20) foot wide easement is required when a single public utility main with less
than six (6) foot of cover is placed in a permanent public utility easement, except when
widening of an existing right-of-way or easement is required by the City.

6. A five (5) foot Public Utility easement may be dedicated to the City of Virginia Beach to
allow for the placement of sanitary sewer cleanouts and water meters behind the public
right-of-way and on private property. This five (5) foot easement must be directly behind
and parallel to the public right-of-way.

7. Field conditions will sometimes require a variation from the design location of the
cleanout and/or meter. Once this is discovered, an easement over the item must be
dedicated immediately. The owner/contractor/developer of the parcel or lot is
responsible for providing the easement prior to the completion of the project.

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2.3.7 HRSD Coordination

1. Contact the HRSD Interceptor Engineer at P.O. Box 5911, Virginia Beach, VA, 23471-
0911, (757) 460-7015. If the Interceptor Engineer cannot be reached, contact the HRSD
Main Office at (757) 460-2261.

2.3.8 City Procurement of Private Facilities

1. Contact the DPU Engineering Division for information pertaining to City procurement of
private sanitary sewer assets.

2. Refer to the DPU Standard Operating Policy No: PU AP/ENG 1104 located in Appendix
A for information pertaining to the transfer of utility and power accounts for Developer-
Constructed pump stations.

2.3.9 Public Involvement

1. The requirements for the solicitation of public involvement in the acceptance of public
infrastructure projects and CIP projects are provided in City Administrative Directive 3.14
and DPU Administrative Directive Policy No. PU AP/DO 1000 located in Appendix A.

2.3.10 Submittals

1. The engineer’s stamp and seal shall be affixed to all drawings and construction
documents submitted to the DPU.

2. Submittals for plans to the DPU shall conform to the standards and requirements of the
following subject areas as necessary:

a. Design Report (including demand and pipe sizing calculations)

b. Construction Plans – CIP Projects and Projects with City Cost Participation
c. Construction Plans – Private Development
d. Utility Easement Plans
e. Variance Process
f. Record Drawing Requirements
g. Technical Specifications – CIP Projects and Projects with City Cost Participation

2.3.10.1 Design Report

1. The purpose of the engineering report is to study the available options to determine the
best means of integrating the proposed utility improvements into the existing system,
while taking into account the potential for future system extensions. The report shall, at
a minimum, address hydraulic conformity, an evaluation of alternatives, project cost,
maintenance cost, easement and property acquisition, neighborhood and traffic impact,
with a summary of conclusions and a recommendation for design/construction.

2. For developer projects, the proposed system layout shall be identified at the time of
preliminary subdivision submittal. The layout shall include, at a minimum, main

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configuration and sizing, connections to existing systems, rim and invert elevations,
pump station location, proposed finished floor elevations, and hydraulic calculations.

3. A comprehensive engineering report shall be submitted for CIP projects when required
by the scope of services of the Engineering Service Contract.

4. The layout of the system shall be consistent with the recommendation of the approved
Engineering Report as approved by the DPU, unless directed otherwise by the DPU.

5. The layout of utility system improvements shall be situated to provide logical system
extensions to the existing system, and, where appropriate, shall be situated to
accommodate future system extensions.

6. Provide adequate working space for construction, operation and maintenance of the
system.

7. Existing underground utilities, private and public and structures shall be located and
shown in the system layout.

8. Calculations submitted to the DPU for review/approval shall be typed and include an
explanation of all assumptions.

2.3.10.1.1 Wastewater Collection System

1. The design of a wastewater collection system shall meet or exceed the Commonwealth
of Virginia SCAT Regulations.

2. Site plan approval is required through the Development Services Center in accordance
with the City's Zoning Ordinance.

3. Plans and specifications for Developer pump stations shall be approved by the DPU
prior to submittal to VDH for approval.

4. Pump stations shall only be utilized where conveyance of wastewater by gravity sewer is
not possible.

2.3.10.1.2 Water Distribution and Transmission Systems

1. The design of water distribution and transmission systems shall meet or exceed
standards and requirements stipulated by the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks
Regulations.

2.3.10.1.3 Other Water Facilities

1. The design of all other water facilities, including but not limited to: production and
pumping facilities, wells, and water storage facilities; shall meet or exceed standards and
requirements stipulated by the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations.

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2. All water main systems shall be designed as looped systems to ensure the consistent
flow of water.

2.3.10.2 Construction Plans - CIP Projects and Projects with City Cost
Participation

1. Submittals of construction plans for CIP projects and projects with City cost participation
shall adhere to DPU Administrative Directive Policy No. PU/ENG 1101 located in
Appendix A.

2.3.10.3 Construction Plans - Private Development (see 2.2.2 Development

Services Center)

1. Submittals of construction plans for private development shall adhere to DPU

Administrative Directive Policy No. PU/ENG 1101 located in Appendix A.

2.3.10.4 Utility Easement Plans

1. The location of the cleanouts and meters must be shown on the site plan. If the cleanout
and/or the meter are located outside of the public right-of-way, an easement must be
dedicated before the site plan is released. This easement may be dedicated by deed
with an exhibit plat.

2. Utility easement plans shall demonstrate compliance with the standards described in
Section 2.3.6 of this manual.

3. Plans shall conform to the requirements described in Section 2.3.10.6 of this manual.

2.3.10.5 Variance Process

1. To request a variance for private development during the design process, the Developer
or Engineer must submit a letter to the Development Services Center (DSC) Utility
Engineer with the following:

a. State and reference the section of the Design Standards for which the variance is
requested
b. State the change to the Design Standards being sought
c. Discuss the reason the variance is being requested
d. Indicate any examples where a similar variance has been granted
e. Discuss the alternatives to denying the variance request
f. Include any calculations, model analysis results, drawings, or site plans, supporting
and explaining the request
g. Discuss any cost considerations relating to the alternatives

2. The DSC Utility Engineer will forward the request to the DPU for consideration. The
review process generally requires thirty (30) working days.

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2.3.10.6 Record Drawing Requirements

1. Record drawings for DPU or Developer projects shall be prepared by the Engineer;
based on marked up plans provided by the contractor and submitted to the DPU upon
completion of the work. These drawings must show changes from the construction
plans, conditions found during the work, and conditions that changed during the work.
Refer to DPU Standard Operating Policy No. PU SOP/ENG 1177 located in Appendix A
for additional information. Contact the Development Services Center for additional
information regarding record drawing requirements.

2. Design files shall be corrected and submitted in TIFF Digital Format and Mylar as record
drawings.

3. Lateral inverts at property/right-of-way line shall be indicated.

4. Drafting Conventions

a. Symbols and designations for existing facilities and proposed utilities systems should
conform to the Standard Legend contained in Appendix B.
b. Digital design and related files will be prepared in an accepted format. CAD should
use Microstation version SE. Reports, calculations and tables, should use Microsoft
Office 2000. Otherwise, all documents should be prepared in PDF format.
c. The scale shall be selected based on the type of construction and the degree of
congestion in the work area. Typically, horizontal scales of 1"= 40' or 1"= 25' and
vertical scales of 1"= 4' or 1"= 2.5' are appropriate.
d. Pump stations shall typically be drawn to 3/8" = 1' scale. Details shall be drawn to
appropriate scale. Site Plans shall be at 1" = 20'.
e. Stationing for pipeline construction projects shall be shown from left to right
beginning at 0 + 100.00.
f. All construction drawings shall be prepared on 24"x 36" sheets. Limit actual area
used to 22"x 34" to allow for half-sheet printing.
g. Sufficient coordinates, based upon the NAD 1983/1993 (HARN) datum, utilizing U.S.
Survey Foot measurements, shall be shown on the construction plans to accurately
locate the horizontal alignment of the project.
h. Plans and maps should be oriented, whenever possible, so that the north arrow
points to the top or right of the page or plan sheet.
i. All proposed mains shall be shown in plan and profile. A profile is not required for
water services or sewer laterals. However, the Engineer shall verify that no conflicts
exist between sewer laterals and any crossed underground utilities, e.g., storm
drains.

5. Drawing Organization

a. Drawings for CIP and Developer subdivision projects shall generally consist of the
following types of sheets arranged in the order listed below:

i. Cover Sheet with date and legend (CIP Projects shall include location map)
ii. Index Sheet and/or Index Map Sheet(s)
iii. Plan and Profile Sheets
iv. General Notes and Details

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v. Traffic Control Plans

vi. Erosion and Sediment Control Plans

b. An index map should be prepared for multi-sheet water or sewer main plans. The
index map shall show a general schematic of proposed mains, valves, hydrants,
manholes, etc., with ties to existing utilities, including existing fire hydrants and shall
provide a graphic plan sheet index.
c. Developer’s individual site development plans are not required to have a cover
sheet, but shall contain sufficient plan and profile sheets to depict the utility layout,
standard notes, special details, and other requirements of appropriate City of Virginia
Beach ordinances and other agencies.
d. DPU Standard Details may be referenced by the plans and do not need to be
provided on plans. However, details for special structures or unique situations shall
be shown at a suitable scale on the plans.
e. Title Blocks shall be located at the bottom or vertical edge, right hand margin with the
sheet number placed in the extreme lower right hand corner. Information shall
include:

i. Project Name (with CIP number for CIP projects)

ii. Drawing Title
iii. Engineer's name and address with phone number (for developer project, also
include developer's name and phone number)
iv. Scale and graphical scale reference for one (1) inch
v. Revision block
vi. Sheet Number

2.3.10.7 Technical Specifications - CIP Projects and Projects with City

Cost Participation

1. Submittals of technical specifications for CIP projects and projects with City cost
participation shall adhere to DPU Administrative Directive Policy No. PU/ENG 1101
located in Appendix A.

2.4 Public Works

1. Refer to the City’s Department of Public Works (DPW) website for information pertaining
to the following Public Works related topics:

a. Storm Water
b. Traffic
c. Roadway
d. Real Estate

2.4.1 Storm Water

1. Refer to the City’s DPW main website for a link to the Storm Water webpage for storm
water related documentation and contact information.

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2.4.2 Traffic

1. Refer to the City’s DPW main website for a link to the Traffic Bureau webpage for traffic
management related documentation and contact information.

2.4.3 Roadway

1. Refer to the City’s DPW main website for links to the Roadways webpage for roadway
management related documentation and contact information.

2.4.4 Real Estate

1. Refer to the City’s DPW main website for links to the Real Estate webpage for
information relating to real estate acquisitions and related documentation and
information.

2.4.5 Surveys

1. Surveys shall be conducted in accordance with the following:

a. Survey Standards
b. Record Survey Requirements

2.4.5.1 Survey Standards

1. All surveys should be made in accordance with recommended standards of National

Geodetic Survey (NGS) with accurate and legible survey notes kept in digital format, or
hardback survey notebooks, properly numbered and indexed for identification.

2. All survey records used in the furtherance of the work under a CIP design contract
(including all aerial negatives and exposed prints, manuscripts, field books, and tracings)
shall become the property of the DPU.

2.4.5.1.1 Vertical Surveys

1. Vertical control shall be based on the North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) 1988 and
shall be expressed in feet and decimals of a foot with a loop closure of not less than 0.03
feet times the square root of the distance in miles around the loop.

2. Vertical surveys shall consist of:

a. Profiling the proposed construction centerline

b. Setting bench marks along the line of proposed construction to the accuracy as set
forth above
c. Delineating the elevation of the topographic features, as set forth in Section 2.4.5.1.2
below.

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2.4.5.1.2 Topographical Surveys

1. Horizontal control shall be based on the Virginia State Plane Coordinate System, South
Zone (NAD 1983/1993 High Accuracy Reference Network (HARN), datum expressed in
U.S. Survey feet values) with a traverse closure of not less than 1:20,000. The Engineer
shall establish a survey baseline with sufficient coordinates and control points to
accurately locate the horizontal alignment of the project: The survey shall be suitable for
construction layout and record drawing purposes.

2. Topographic surveys shall consist of obtaining and mapping horizontal and vertical data
for all physical features which may influence utilities design.

3. Design data is generally limited to those physical features including utility castings,
manhole inverts, building locations and type, ground elevations for contour
determination, roadway data, bodies of water, landscaping features, fences, property
lines, and rights-of-way. The lowest finished floor elevation shall be obtained to the
nearest 0.1 foot for gravity sewer projects.

4. The design shall include underground utilities location by research of existing records
and field verification.

5. Test pits shall be required to determine the exact location of underground utilities for
critical conflict locations.

2.4.5.2 Record Survey Requirements

1. Record survey requirements at a minimum shall conform to the standards and

procedures set forth in Section 18VAC 10-20-382 of the Board for Architects,
Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape
Architects Regulations.

2.5 Fire

1. Contact the City’s Fire Administration Office to initiate any necessary coordination
efforts.

2. The City of Virginia Beach Fire Department will accept fire-flow calculations using either
the IFC method, or the standard, previously accepted ISO method. The IFC method
requires:

a. Minimum fire-flow is 1500 gpm at 20 psi

b. Total flow required is the addition of both the fire-flow plus the sprinkler flow
c. A 50% reduction is allowed with the use of sprinklers, but the minimum fire-flow
of 1500 gpm is still applicable

Contact the DPU for details pertaining to the IFC and the ISO calculation methods.

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3 Wastewater Collection System

3.1 General

1. There shall be no physical connection between potable water pipelines, storm sewer
pipelines and sanitary sewer pipelines.

2. Design shall incorporate City Administrative Directive 3.17 – Wind speed Design Criteria
for New City Buildings and Public School Projects located in Appendix A.

3. All calculations and exhibits pertinent to the pump station design should be computer
generated for review. All final design calculations should be supplied in digital format in
addition to hard copy.

4. The smallest size station accepted by the DPU is 80 gpm (4-inch DIP discharge).

3.1.1 Consent Order Requirements

1. Refer to Appendix H of the Special Order by Consent signed by the City of Virginia
Beach on September 27, 2007 for general requirements. Refer to the Regional
Technical Standards (RTS) for more specific guidelines and requirements. Refer to the
Virginia Beach City Code - Chapter 28 – Article IV – Division 1 – Sewer Use for
additional information pertaining to the wastewater collection system and the Special
Order by Consent.

3.1.2 City Code Requirements

1. This section will describe the following City Code requirements:

a. Sewer Use Ordinance

b. Subdivision Ordinance

3.1.2.1 Sewer Use Ordinance

1. Refer to the Virginia Beach City Code - Chapter 28 – Article IV – Use of the Public
Sewer System for general information regarding the sewer use as it pertains to the
wastewater collection system.

3.1.2.2 Subdivision Ordinance

1. Refer to the Virginia Beach City Code - Appendix B – Subdivision Regulations –

Required Improvements – Section 5.9 – Sanitary sewerage for general information
pertaining to subdivisions as part of the wastewater collection system.

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3.1.3 Construction Considerations

1. Refer to Section 520.03 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for construction
methods and considerations.

3.1.4 Subsurface Investigations

1. When deemed necessary by the DPU, a geotechnical engineer will perform an

investigation of the soil to determine the presence of groundwater or bedrock, soil
bearing capacity, soil backfill suitability, corrosion potential, pH, resistivity, and any other
conditions specified by the DPU that may impact the construction of any part of the
wastewater collection system.

2. Dewatering activities shall adhere to the City’s Dewatering Standard as stated in the
Groundwater Quality Assessment and Water Discharge Standard. Contact the DPU for
a copy of this document.

3. Test holes for drilling shall be located no more than 1,000 feet apart.

4. Test holes for drilling shall be located at any highway, railroad and water body crossings.

3.1.5 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for the system
material, construction and testing requirements of wastewater collection systems.

3.1.6 Surface Water Crossings

1. Surface water crossings, both over and under water, present special problems and
should be discussed with the Virginia Department of Health Office of Drinking Water
before final plans are prepared.

2. The pipe above water crossings shall be adequately supported, protected from freeze
damage, accessible for repair or replacement, and shall be above the 100-year flood
level.

3. The pipe under water crossings shall be of special construction, having flexible
watertight joints. Valves shall be provided at both ends of the water crossing so that the
section can be isolated for tests or repair. The valves shall be easily accessible and not
subject to flooding. Sample taps shall be available at each end of the crossing and at a
reasonable distance from each side of the crossing and not subject to flooding.
Permanent taps shall be made for testing and for locating leaks.

3.2 Wastewater Design Flows

1. Wastewater Design Flows will be calculated according to the methodology used to

calculate the following:

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a. Average Daily Flows Based on Land Use

b. Peak Flows

3.2.1 Average Daily Flows Based on Land Use

1. Gravity sewer design and pump station wet well design shall be based on maximum
dwelling/room/apartment unit densities as shown in Table 3-1:

Table 3-1.

Maximum Unit Lot

Zoning CVB Zoning Classification Density Flow Coverage
(Unit/acre) (gpd) (acre)

A12 Apartments 12 400 1

A18 Apartments 18 400 1
A24 Apartments 24 400 1
A36 Apartments 36 400 1
AG1 Agricultural 1 400 1
AG2 Agricultural 1 400 1
B1 Neighborhood Business District 43.56 250 0.33
B1A Limited Community Business District 87.12 250 0.33
B2 Community Business District 87.12 250 0.33
B3 Central Business District 108.9 250 0.33
B3A Pembroke Central Business Core District 108.9 250 0.33
B4 Mixed Use District 36 250 1
H1 Hotel District 80 130 1
I1 Light Industrial District 108.9 250 0.33
I2 Heavy Industrial District 108.9 250 0.33
O1 Office District 43.56 250 0.25
O2 Large Office District 87.12 250 0.25
PDH-1 Planned Development Districts 4.25 400 1
PDH-2/A36 Planned Development Districts 36 400 1
R2.5 Residential - Townhouse 9 400 1
R7.5 Residential – Medium Density, Single Family 3.5 400 1
R10 Residential – Medium Density, Single Family 3 400 1
R15 Residential – Medium Density, Single Family 2.25 400 1
R20 Residential – Low Density, Single Family 1.7 400 1
R30 Residential – Low Density, Single Family 1.1 400 1
R40 Residential – Low Density, Single Family 0.8 400 1
R5D Residential Duplex District 6 400 1
R5R Residential Resort District 6 400 1
R5S Residential Single-Family District 6 400 1

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Table 3-1.

Maximum Unit Lot

Zoning CVB Zoning Classification Density Flow Coverage
(Unit/acre) (gpd) (acre)

RT1 Resort Tourist District Atlantic Ave 190 130 1

RT2 Resort Tourist District Resorts and Mixed Use 120 130 1
RT3 Resort Tourist District Mixed Use 160 130 1
RT4 Resort Tourist District 18 400 1

2. Average Flow. The below calculation shall be used for determining average flows for the
above zoning(s):
Qavg = Acreage x Max. Density x Unit Flow x Lot Coverage

3. Site development plans shall be based on the dwelling unit flow factors in Table 3-2:

Table 3-2.
Contributing Flow
Flow Peak
Discharge Facility Design Duration
(gpd/unit) Factor
Units (hours)
Dwellings Dwelling 310 24 2.5
Schools Gross SF 0.21 8 3.0
Boarding Schools Per Dorm Room 222 16 3.0
Motels & Hotels Per Room 151 24 3.0
Trailer courts, Apartments, Condos,
Unit 310 24 2.5
Townhomes, and Time Shares
Restaurants (including fast food) Gross SF 0.52 16 3.0
Service Stations Gross SF 1.63 16 3.0
Shopping Centers Gross SF 0.09 12 3.0
Hospitals Gross SF 0.19 24 3.0
Nursing Homes/Assisted Living Per Bed 125 24 3.0
Doctor's offices in medical centers Gross SF 0.06 12 3.0
Laundromats Gross SF 0.27 16 3.0
Per Student and
Community colleges 3.1 12 3.0
Faculty
Theaters (auditorium type) Gross SF 0.08 12 3.0
Picnic Areas Gross SF 0.07 12 3.0
Camps, resort day and night w/limited
Gross SF 0.04 24 3.0
plumbing
Luxury camps w/flush toilets Gross SF 0.04 24 3.0
Warehouse Gross SF 0.10 24 3.0
Convenient Store Gross SF 0.27 24 3.0
Office Building Gross SF 0.16 12 3.0

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Table 3-2.
Contributing Flow
Flow Peak
Discharge Facility Design Duration
(gpd/unit) Factor
Units (hours)
Fitness Center Gross SF 0.11 16 3.0
Religious Assembly Gross SF 0.03 6 3.0
Heavy Industrial Gross SF 0.02 16 3.0
Light Industrial Gross SF 0.02 16 3.0
Undeveloped Residential Dwelling 0 24 3.0
Undeveloped other than Residential Acre 0 24 3.0

4. When estimating pumping capacity for new pump stations, projected flows from
undeveloped parcels in existing service areas shall be based on the dwelling unit flow
factors in Table 3-3:

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Table 3-3.
Maximum Unit
Lot Peaking
Zoning CVB Zoning Classification Density Flow Unit
Coverage Factor
(Unit/Acre) (gpd)
A12 Apartments 12 1 310 Unit 2.5
A18 Apartments 18 1 310 Unit 2.5
A24 Apartments 24 1 310 Unit 2.5
A36 Apartments 36 1 310 Unit 2.5
AG1 Agricultural 1 1 310 Unit 2.5
AG2 Agricultural 1 1 310 Unit 2.5
Neighborhood Business 1,000
B1 43.56 0.33 160 3.0
District Gross SF
Limited Community 1,000
B1A 87.12 0.33 520 3.0
Business District Gross SF
Community Business 1,000
B2 87.12 0.33 160 3.0
District Gross SF
1,000
B3 Central Business District 108.9 0.33 160 3.0
Gross SF
Pembroke Central 1,000
B3A 108.9 0.33 160 3.0
Business Core District Gross SF
B4 Mixed Use District 36 1 310 Unit 2.5
H1 Hotel District 80 1 151 Per Room 3.0
1,000
I1 Light Industrial District 108.9 0.33 160 3.0
Gross SF
1,000
I2 Heavy Industrial District 108.9 0.33 160 3.0
Gross SF
1,000
O1 Office District 43.56 0.25 160 3.0
Gross SF
1,000
O2 Large Office District 87.12 0.25 210 3.0
Gross SF
Planned Development
PDH1 4.25 1 310 Unit 2.5
Districts
PDH2 / Planned Development
36 1 310 Unit 2.5
A36 Districts
R2.5 Residential - Townhouse 9 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Residential – Medium
R7.5 3.5 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Density, Single Family
Residential – Medium
R10 3 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Density, Single Family
Residential – Medium
R15 2.25 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Density, Single Family
Residential – Low Density,
R20 1.7 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Single Family
Residential – Low Density,
R30 1.1 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Single Family
Residential – Low Density,
R40 1 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Single Family

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Table 3-3.
Maximum Unit
Lot Peaking
Zoning CVB Zoning Classification Density Flow Unit
Coverage Factor
(Unit/Acre) (gpd)
R5D Residential Duplex District 6 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
R5R Residential Resort District 6 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
Residential Single-Family
R5S 6 1 310 Dwelling 2.5
District
Resort Tourist District
RT1 190 1 151 Per Room 3.0
Atlantic Ave
Resort Tourist District /
RT2 120 1 151 Per Room 3.0
Resorts and Mixed Use
Resort Tourist District
RT3 160 1 151 Per Room 3.0
Mixed Use
RT4 Resort Tourist District 18 1 310 Dwelling 2.5

3.2.2 Peak Flow

1. Peak flow is calculated using a peak factor of 2.5 unless otherwise indicated in Tables 3-
2 and 3-3 above; thus
Qpeak = 2.5 x Qavg

2. Exceptions to the average flow and peak flow requirements will be considered only if
impractical to provide required capacity and a variance is requested by the Engineer and
approved by the DPU.

3.3 Gravity Sanitary Sewer Lines

1. This section provides information on the following subjects pertaining to gravity sanitary
sewer lines:

a. Depth
b. Location
c. Boring and Jacking
d. Acceptable Pipe Materials
e. Pipe Sizing
f. Slope and Velocity
g. Alignment
h. Corrosion Prevention
i. Sewer Main Connections at Manholes
j. Separation
k. Buoyancy
l. Trenching, Bedding, Backfill
m. Inspection and Testing
n. Aerial Crossings
o. Conflict Structures
p. HRSD Gravity Sewer Interceptor

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3.3.1 Depth

1. Minimum cover for gravity sewers shall be twenty-four (24) inches for ductile iron pipe
and thirty-six (36) inches for other pipe.

3.3.2 Location

1. Gravity sanitary sewers shall be located in publicly owned rights-of-way in the center of
streets avoiding the wheel path, if practical.

3.3.3 Boring and Jacking

1. A jack and bore installation is required where open cutting is not permitted, typically at
railroad crossings or high volume roadways. Steel casings with leak detectors, are
required for all jack and bore installations. Other methods such as micro tunneling,
tunnel liner plate or directional drilling may also be considered. Refer to Sections 302.03
and 520.03 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of
Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for details regarding boring and
jacking procedures and construction methods.

3.3.4 Acceptable Pipe Materials

1. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) - shall meet requirements of ASTM D 3034-81 and shall have
Integral Bell, Gasketed Joint Pipe with a minimum dimension ratio (dr) of 26 and a
minimum stiffness (ps) of 46 psi at 5% deflection.

2. Fittings and gaskets for PVC and Ductile Iron Pipe shall meet criteria listed in Section
520.02 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of
Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007.

3. For pipes with less than 3 feet of cover, collection systems entering a pump station, and
pipes within public utility easements use Protecto 401 Ductile Iron pipe and fittings
(minimum Class 52). PVC SDR 26 pipe and fittings are required when depths of cover
are from 3 to 12 feet. PVC C900 or C905 pipe and fittings (DR18) are required for pipe
with cover greater than 12 feet.

4. Pipe depth shall not exceed 16 feet unless approved by a variance.

3.3.5 Pipe Sizing

1. Pipe sizing shall be determined based on the minimum allowable grade as specified in
the table below:

Minimum Slope
Sanitary Sewer Size
per 100 Feet
4-inch (lateral only) 1.0
6-inch (lateral only) 0.63
8-inch 0.40

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Minimum Slope
Sanitary Sewer Size
per 100 Feet
10-inch 0.28
12-inch 0.22
14-inch 0.17
15-inch 0.15
16-inch 0.14
18-inch 0.12
21-inch 0.10
24-inch 0.08
27-inch 0.067
30-inch 0.058
36-inch 0.046

3.3.6 Slope and Velocity

1. Sanitary sewer lines shall be designed with uniform slope between manholes.

2. Sanitary sewers shall be designed for a minimum flow velocity of two feet per second for
design flows. Manning’s formula for pipe roughness shall be based on the pipe material.

3. Sanitary sewer lines discharging to pump stations must be steeper than the minimum
required slope.

3.3.7 Alignment

1. Radial pipe is not permitted.

3.3.8 Corrosion Prevention

1. Corrosion potential shall be analyzed by the Engineer and corrosion protection shall be
provided as necessary. Stray voltage testing and geotechnical data must be evaluated to
ensure adequate protection.

3.3.9 Sewer Main Connections at Manholes

1. Sanitary sewer tributary flow lines shall intersect in manholes at angles of 90 degrees or
more with the outflow line and channel shaping is required. Refer to Detail 8 of the
City’s DPU Standard Details for Invert Shaping.

3.3.10 Separation

1. This section discusses the separation of gravity sewer mains from the following types of
structures:

a. Water Mains
b. Water Supply System Structures
c. Storm Drains and Culverts
d. Other Utilities

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3.3.10.1 Water Mains

1. Gravity mains shall maintain a minimum of 18-inches of vertical separation and 10 feet
of horizontal separation from water mains. Such distances shall measure from outer
wall of pipe to outer wall of pipe.

3.3.10.2 Water Supply System Structures

1. Gravity mains shall maintain a minimum of 18-inches of vertical separation and 10 feet
of horizontal separation from water supply system structures. Such distances shall
measure from outer wall of pipe to outer wall of pipe.

3.3.10.3 Storm Drains and Culverts

1. Gravity mains shall maintain a minimum of 18-inches of vertical separation and 10 feet
of horizontal separation from storm drains and culverts. Such distances shall measure
from outer wall of pipe to outer wall of pipe.

2. A variance is required if the minimum vertical separation cannot be obtained.

3.3.10.4 Other Utilities

1. Gravity sewer mains shall maintain a minimum of 18-inches of vertical separation and 10
feet horizontal separation from any underground utility. Such distances shall measure
from outer wall of pipe to outer wall of pipe.

2. Private Utility installations must maintain a minimum 24-inch (2 foot) vertical edge-to-
edge separation and a minimum 36-inch (3 foot) edge-to-edge horizontal separation
from all water and sanitary sewer utilities that are at a depth less than six (6) feet.

3. A variance is required if the minimum vertical separation cannot be obtained.

3.3.11 Buoyancy

1. Where high groundwater conditions are anticipated or known to exist, buoyancy of

sewers shall be given due consideration, and appropriate construction shall be
employed to prevent flotation of any gravity sewer lines. Buoyancy calculations shall be
based on sewer pipes that are not conveying any flow.

3.3.12 Trenching, Bedding, Backfill

1. Trenching, bedding, and backfill considerations shall conform to the requirements of

Section 302 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of
Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007.

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3.3.13 Inspection and Testing

1. Gravity sewer related inspections and testing activities shall adhere to Section 330
(which covers monitoring, records, and reporting), and Section 370 (which covers
sampling frequency) of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations. Refer
also to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for additional
information.

3.3.14 Aerial Crossings

1. Aerial crossings are prohibited under normal circumstances. A variance is required if an

aerial crossing cannot be avoided.

2. The pipe material and supporting material will need to be specified during the variance
process.

3. Refer to Section 360 of the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations for acceptable
pipe materials and additional information.

3.3.15 Conflict Structures

1. Conflict structures are prohibited under normal circumstances. A variance is required if

a conflict structure cannot be avoided.

3.3.16 HRSD Gravity Sewer Interceptor

1. Any City owned gravity sewer line connected to an HRSD gravity sewer interceptor shall
adhere to HRSD connection standards. Any such proposed connections shall receive
prior approval by HRSD before the establishment of a connection.

3.4 Manholes

1. Metal riser rings are prohibited.

2. Stub-outs are prohibited.

3. Refer to Details 7-1 and 7-2 of the City’s DPU Standard Details for Frame and Cover
requirements.

4. Refer to the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations for additional manhole

standards.

3.4.1 Manhole Depth

1. The maximum depth for collection manholes serving sewage pumping stations is 16 feet
from manhole cover to pipe invert.

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3.4.2 End of Line Requirement

1. Terminal or mainline cleanouts are not allowed.

2. End of line manholes shall have a maximum depth of 4.5 feet.

3.4.3 Manhole Locations

1. Avoid installing manholes in sidewalks.

2. Manholes rims shall not be buried.

3. An easement is required if a manhole cannot be placed in a right-of-way.

4. Witness posts for manholes are required within easements.

5. Manholes shall not be located in the wheel path of a vehicle.

6. Manholes shall not be located in a depressed area.

7. Refer to the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations for additional information on

manhole location requirements.

3.4.4 Manhole Spacing

1. The maximum distance between manholes is 400 feet.

3.4.5 Manhole Diameter

1. Manhole diameters shall be 4 feet except when deeper than 12 feet.

2. Manholes 12 feet in depth and deeper shall be a minimum of 5 feet in diameter for the
entire depth below the cone.

3.4.6 Connection to Manhole

1. When connecting to an existing pre-cast concrete or brick manhole, core drill and install
an approved flexible connector for the pipe.

3.4.7 Manhole Separation from Water Mains

1. Separation of water mains for sanitary sewer manholes shall adhere to the provisions
outlined in Section 1150 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations.

3.4.8 Drop Manholes

1. Drop manholes shall use inside drop connections and must be a minimum of 5 feet in
diameter. Drop manholes should be avoided when possible by adjusting the depth and
slope of the main. When the invert of the connecting tributary sewer exceeds the invert
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of the main by 2 feet or more, an inside drop shall be used. Drops shall not conflict with
manhole steps.

3.4.9 Bench and Flow Channel

1. A 0.1 ft drop is required in sewer manholes from inlet to outlet invert.

3.4.10 Water Tightness and Manhole Inserts

1. The DPU requires the installation of manhole inserts with all new construction on public
and private property in an effort to reduce stormwater inflows into the sanitary sewer
system.

2. Refer to the “Mandatory Supplemental Specification for Manhole Inserts” document on

the DPU Construction Specifications webpage for a comprehensive description of
manhole insert requirements.

3.4.11 Corrosion Prevention

1. Sewer manholes receiving flows from a sanitary force main shall direct discharge to the
downstream pipe and shall be adequately protected against hydrogen sulfide attack with
a coating or lining system approved by the DPU. Refer to Detail SS_17 of the HRPDC
Regional Construction Standards for information on force main saxophone connections.

3.4.12 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for system material,
construction and testing requirements.

3.5 Service Connections

1. Gravity sanitary sewer laterals shall normally be limited to one service per site (duplexes
are allowed two) unless otherwise directed by the DPU.

2. Lateral cleanouts shall be placed at the right-of-way lines. If not feasible at the right-of-
way, a variance for placing the cleanout in an appropriately sized easement may be
considered by the DPU. Invert elevations need to be indicated at the right-of-way line.

3. Sewer laterals shall have a minimum of six (6) inch vertical clearance between curbs,
gutters, sidewalks, driveways, and ramps. The minimum depth of cover at ditch
crossings shall be eighteen (18) inches from the lowest likely ditch invert.

4. Laterals shall not exceed 75 ft in length from the main to the cleanout or from the
manhole to the cleanout.

5. The maximum number of service laterals entering a manhole shall be four (4), except for
inside drop connections, where the maximum shall be two (2). Laterals and drops shall
not conflict with manhole steps.

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6. Depth of service lateral shall be sufficient to provide adequate gravity service to the
property. The Engineer shall indicate on the plan the lateral invert elevation at the right-
of-way line.

7. Service laterals shall normally be the same material as the sewer main unless otherwise
required.

8. Any discharge from a restaurant to the public system must have pre-treatment (i.e., pass
through a grease trap prior to discharge into the public system). Refer to the City’s DPU
website for information pertaining to the Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Program and
associated requirements.

3.5.1 Service Connection Sizes

1. Minimum size shall be 4 inches in diameter. An increase in size must be justified and
approved by the DPU.

3.5.2 Manhole Required at Right-of-Way

1. For a private sanitary sewer system, manholes are required at the right-of-way.
Manholes shall not be placed in drainage ditches or low areas.

3.5.3 Service Connection Installation

1. This section describes the following aspects of service connection installation:

a. Clean Outs
b. Right-of-Way Requirements

3.5.3.1 Clean Outs

1. Avoid installing cleanouts in existing or proposed sidewalks, driveways, paved areas,

drainage ways or depressed areas.

3.5.3.2 Right-of-Way Requirements

1. Service laterals shall be placed in a right-of-way under normal conditions. A variance is

required to locate a service connection in an easement.

3.5.4 Inspection and Testing

1. New or modified residential and commercial connections require a plumbing permit.

2. Refer to the City’s Plumbing Permits & Inspections webpage to determine if a plumbing
permit is required and the applicable permit requirements.

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3.6 Vacuum Sanitary Sewer Lines

1. The following documents are suggested references to aid in the design of vacuum
sanitary sewer systems:

a. EPA Manual - Alternative Wastewater Collection Systems October 1991

b. AIRVAC Design Manual 2012

2. Single lots shall connect to an existing valve pit or a vacuum valve pit owned by the
DPU. A maximum of four lots can be serviced by a single valve pit.

3. Location of the lines, valves, or valve pits shall follow the same considerations as that of
gravity sanitary sewer lines, Section 3.3.2 of this manual, with regard to variance
process approval for placement in easement.

4. Valve pits must be located to allow gravity flow from the intended point of service.
Drawings shall note rim elevations and lateral elevations at each valve pit.

5. Record Drawings shall provide two swing-tie points, rim elevation and lateral length and
invert at right-of-way and service address.

6. Supporting calculations shall be provided along with the plan to Public Utilities for review
and approval of any extension or new vacuum sanitary sewer.

3.6.1 Materials

1. Vacuum mains shall be solvent weld PVC thermoplastic pipe, pressure rated schedule
40, SDR 21 or class 200 in sizes 4-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, or 10-inch.

2. Vacuum service laterals shall be solvent weld PVC thermoplastic pipe, pressure rated
schedule 40, SDR 21, or class 200 3-inch in size.

3. Gravity sewer lines that connect to vacuum sewers shall also be solvent weld PVC
thermoplastic pipe, pressure rated schedule 40, SDR 21 or class 200 (within 10 feet of
the connecting valve pit).

4. Fittings shall be vacuum rated for ASTM D3139 and include wyes, 45 degress ells, and
concentric reducers. All 45 degree ells and wyes shall be Harco VacTuf with Harco
Vacseal Joints or an approved equal. Fittings for pipe diameters 10-inches or greater
shall be ductile iron.

5. Glued fittings, tee fittings, and 90 degree ells are prohibited in vacuum sewers. Only
the 90 degree ell in the valve pit is allowed.

6. Flexible elastomeric joint pipe shall be used where rubber ring joint pipe is required. The
requirement of a manufacturer test certification must be specified on plans.

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3.6.2 Vacuum Pit and Valve

1. Collection Structures

a. Fiberglass collection valve pits shall have a minimum wall thickness of 3/16-inch. Pits
shall be designed for H-20 truck loading at 2-foot depth of cover. Elastomer
connections shall be provided for the gravity connections. See the DPU Standard
Details. All valve pits must be located outside of traffic areas.
b. Valve pits located in field (grass) areas shall use a 2’x2’x6” deep concrete collar.
c. Elevation differences between structures may require separate valve pits for those
structures.
d. An anti-buoyancy collar shall be installed at the middle of all non-concrete valve pits
at the completion of the backfilling operation, as manufactured by the vacuum
system manufacturer.
e. Design access to valve pits for easy installation/removal/ replacement.
f. Valve pits will become property of the DPU, and be located within rights-of-way.
g. When grinder pumps discharge into a valve pit, only one force main per pit is
allowed.

2. Valves

a. Resilient seated gate valves shall be used as division valves at branch/main

connections, at both sides of a bridge crossing and unstable soil, and at periodic
intervals along the route.
b. Vacuum pits have a design capacity of 3 gpm flow, with one valve capable of
handling the total sewage flow from four homes. Where combined peak flows
exceeds 3 gpm, multiple valve pits must be used.
c. High flows from schools, apartments, nursing homes, lift stations, or a number of
grinder pumps may be received at buffer tanks. The maximum flow per valve should
be reduced to 15 gpm for these continuous flows.
d. The distance inside of the valve pit from the 90-degree suction bend to the 3-inch
service pipe cannot be more than 14-3/8 inches.
e. Knife valves shall be installed on the inside valve pit wall adjacent to the entrance of
the vacuum line located not to impede operation of the valve pit’s components. The
knife valve is used to aid in the installation or replacement of the interface valve. For
extended period vacuum shut off a 3” plug attached with a Fernco shall be used.

3.6.3 Buffer Tanks

1. Concentrated flows over 15 gpm from schools, apartments, nursing homes, lift stations,
or a number of grinder pumps shall be received at buffer tanks through a splitter box. A
maximum of 25 percent of system flow can be controlled by buffer tanks. Buffer tanks
should not be placed at project extremities.

2. High continuous flows must flow to a splitter manhole which will evenly split the flows to
multiple valve buffer tank units. For systems requiring numerous buffer tanks, further
restrictions may apply. Contact the DPU Engineering Division (757-385-4171) for
assistance.

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3. Buffer tanks with large concentrated flows in vacuum systems require careful design
considerations. Refer to AIRVAC manual and discuss with DPU Engineering division to
determine the appropriate design.

3.6.4 Vacuum Main Design

1. Profile changes should be limited to 12 inches height for 3-inch and 4-inch vacuum lines
and 18 inches for 6 inches and larger pipe.

2. Invert elevations shall be shown on profile for all lifts at the extreme end of a vacuum
main, a maximum of 1,500 feet of 4-inch vacuum pipe can be used at the approval of the
DPU. The maximum distance for 3-inch mains is 300 feet.

3. Slope requirements - Mains should be designed at a minimum slope of 0.2% slope with
profile changes a minimum of every 500 ft. Where the natural ground falls in excess of
0.2% in the flow direction, the vacuum sewer profiles follow the ground slope with no
profile changes.

4. When vacuum mains must ascend a grade, multiple lifts must be placed at a minimum of
20 feet apart.

5. Systems should be designed for a maximum of 13 feet of vacuum loss due to lifts and 5
feet of vacuum due to friction.

6. Where a lift is required in a branch sewer prior to entering the main, it should be made
20 or more feet from the main.

7. Connections from vacuum valve pits to the mains should be made over the top of the
main but not less than 45 degrees. See the DPU Standard Details.

8. Profiles should be provided for all pipes running between the vacuum valve pit and the
vacuum mains.

9. Provide four feet of cover for mains.

10. Alignment of the 3-inch service line to the 90-degree suction bend shall be 1/4-inch
vertical and 1/8-inch horizontal.

11. Refer to AIRVAC manual and discuss with DPU Engineering division to determine the
appropriate standards.

3.6.5 Gauge Taps

1. Gauge taps are placed on the station side of main line valves (except on dead-end lines
where an extra gauge tap may be required on the upstream side of the main line valve
for leak detection).

2. Line vacuum pressure gauges will be required in every vacuum station. There shall be 1
gauge per line with an electrically actuated valve and a switch located on the wall of the
station.

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3.6.6 Isolation Valves

1. Division valves shall be installed at branch connections with lines exceeding 300 feet
and at intervals no greater than 1,500 feet on main vacuum lines.

3.6.7 Inspections and Testing

1. Daily Testing – perform daily testing of all vacuum sewer mains and lateral connections
laid as follows:

a. Plug all open connections with rubber stoppers or temporary caps, fitted to the pipe
by No-Hub couplings.
b. Apply a vacuum to 24-inches HG to the pipes and allow the pressure to stabilize for
15 minutes. There shall be no loss of vacuum in excess of 1 percent per hour for a
two hour test period.
c. As pipe is laid, the new section shall be tested in addition to the previously laid pipe
on that main until a division valve is placed. Testing then shall be done with the
valve either closed or open as directed by the DPU.

2. Additional pipe may not be installed until satisfactory test results are achieved for a given
main.

3. Trenches must be backfilled at the conclusion of each workday.

4. Line flushing – prior to final acceptance testing, flush lines to remove debris and foreign
materials that accumulated in the lines during construction.

a. The Developer must flush the entire system at one time upon completion. At least
30 days prior to initiation of flushing operations, the Developer shall submit a
proposed plan in writing for conducting line flushing to the DPU. The plan shall
include the equipment to be used; the segments of the system to be flushed at a
given time, the calculated volume of pipe (excluding 3-inch lines) to be flushed, by
segment; the location if vacuum valves to be installed to facilitate the flushing
operations, and the approximate volume of water to be introduced into the system at
the end of each branch line, by segment.
b. The Developer shall provide appropriate vacuum equipment and receiving tank to
accomplish the work. The vacuum test rig may be temporarily connected to a
collection tank to create a vacuum on the system of 20-inches of mercury. The tank
must be sized to accommodate one seventh of the volume of the lines being flushed.
The Developer shall take all necessary precautions to prevent the entrance of water
into the vacuum pumps, if the test rig is used. The Developer shall supply the water
for testing.

c. The following describes the flushing procedure:

i. Place system under vacuum at the downstream end of the vacuum main
segment being flushed.
ii. Add water to valve pits at extreme ends of system and cause vacuum valves to
operate. (Developer to supply and install valves at the terminal end of each
branch line to facilitate flushing.)

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iii. Utilize system vacuum to transport water and debris to collection point. Adjust
valve timer to allow sufficient air into the system (Approximately 7:1 air to liquid
ration).
iv. Continue procedure until water entering at collection point is free of
contamination or debris. Developer shall properly dispose of flushing water
and debris.
v. Developer shall remove vacuum interface valves and reinstall temporary caps
using 3-inch Fernco couplings.
vi. Close division valves to seal off flushed segment.

5. Final testing of vacuum sewer mains

a. Final testing preparation:

i. Prior to commencing final testing the Developer shall subject each main
vacuum line and its associated sub-mains to a vacuum maintained between 16
and 20-inches of mercury. While under vacuum, the last vacuum pot on each
sub-main and main shall be activated in a sequential manner such that air is
admitted to the system for a period of 15 seconds. A minimum of four cycles of
sequentially activating the pots is required.
ii. If after four cycles are completed and water is still being received at the
vacuum pump, the main shall be considered as having failed and it should be
the Developer’s sole responsibility to locate and repair the leaks.

b. Final testing:

i. Test the entire sewerage system to a vacuum of 24-inches Hg, allow to

stabilize for 15 minutes. The test shall be initiated at 24-inch mercury. There
shall be no loss greater than 1 percent per hour over a 4-hour test period.
ii. Developer to provide 48 hours notice to DPU prior to start of test.
iii. Developer shall verify all division valves are open prior to beginning of, and
shall remain open during, final acceptance test.
iv. Final acceptance test shall be recorded on approved vacuum chart recorder.
This chart will not be considered valid unless witnessed by the DPU on test
equipment at beginning and the end of vacuum test period.
v. Seal system and make ready to place in operation.

3.6.8 Vacuum Monitoring System Requirements

1. At a minimum, a vacuum monitoring system shall satisfy the following requirements:

a. Provide real-time monitoring of sewage flows in the vacuum system

b. Be composed of hardware that is reasonably weatherproof
c. IP sensing systems supplied by AIRVAC shall be used

3.6.9 Odor Control

1. The minimum requirement for odor control considerations is the inclusion of a bio-mass
compost bed appropriately sized for the flow volumes of the associated sewer.

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3.7 Wastewater Pump Stations

1. This section describes the following aspects pertaining to wastewater pump stations:

a. Location
b. Types of Stations
c. Mechanical Design
d. Structural Design
e. Electrical Design
f. Architectural Design and Aesthetics
g. Odor Control
h. SCADA and Telemetry Requirements
i. Inspections and Testing
j. Operational and Maintenance Manual Requirements
k. Instrumentation Requirements
l. Emergency Generator Requirements
m. Private Pump Stations
n. Miscellaneous Considerations

2. Refer to the City’s Standard Pump Station Specifications and Construction Details for
additional information. The latest Pump Station Specifications and Prototype Drawings
can be found at the above link.

3.7.1 Location

1. The following subjects shall be given full consideration in making a determination of the
location of a pump station:

a. Service Area
b. Site Availability

3.7.1.1 Service Area

1. Peak RTS build-out flow estimates shall be used for pump design and average VDEQ
build-out flow estimates shall be used for wet well design.

2. Proper location of station is of prime importance within the proposed service area. The
ultimate goal is to minimize the number of pumping stations for the area to be served
while keeping the depth of the gravity sewer and pump station within a constructible and
maintainable depth of sixteen (16) feet at the collection manhole. A comprehensive
study and report shall be prepared addressing service area boundaries, hydraulic
calculations, topography and 100 year flood elevations, as a minimum. Refer to Section
3.4.1 of this manual for maximum depth of gravity sanitary sewer.

3.7.1.2 Site Availability

1. As part of the required Engineering report, the recommended site shall be reviewed for
the following environmental concerns: (1) wetlands, (2) Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) Level 1 (Level 2 as needed) environmental assessment, (3) Chesapeake
Bay Preservation Act, and (4) Hazardous materials.

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2. Ensure all mechanical and electrical equipment is located above the 500-year flood
plain. Design the finish floor elevation to be at least one foot above the 100-year flood
elevation.

3. Stations shall be designed to remain fully operational during a 25-year flood.

4. Locate the pump station such that no other structure is within a 100-foot radius of the
wet well.

3.7.2 Type of Stations

1. This section lists the types of pump stations which are permitted and corresponding
design criteria.

3.7.2.1 Wet Well / Dry Well

1. Pump stations with ultimate design flows over 1,000 gpm including phased development,
shall be designed as wet well/dry well stations.

2. Refer to the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations Part III – Article 2 for design
criteria.

3.7.2.1.1 Dry Pit Submersible

1. Dry pit submersible pump stations shall be designed for flows in excess of 1,000 gpm,
including phased development.

2. In a dry pit submersible station, no single pump shall weigh more than 1,800 lbs.

3. Refer to the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations Part III – Article 2 for
additional design criteria.

3.7.2.2 Suction Lift

1. Single pit self-priming suction lift stations will be considered on a case-by-case variance
basis and must be approved by the DPU.

2. Priming lift for suction lift pumping stations shall not exceed 18 feet.

3. Discharges from suction lift stations shall be made to a manhole in the gravity sanitary
sewer system in accordance with Section 3.8.12 of this manual.

4. Refer to Part III – Article 2 of the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations for
additional design criteria.

3.7.2.3 Submersible

1. Submersible pump stations shall not be designed for flows in excess of 1,000 gpm,
including phased development.

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2. In a submersible station, no single pump shall weigh more than 1,800 lbs.

3. Refer to the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations Part III – Article 2 for design
criteria.

3.7.2.4 Vacuum

1. Vacuum pump station installations will be considered on a case-by-case basis and must
be approved, by the DPU, prior to formal plan submittal.

2. Refer to the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations Part III – Article 2 design
criteria.

3.7.3 Mechanical Design

1. This section describes the design standards of the following components of pump
stations:

a. Pumps and Motors

b. Piping Systems
c. Valves
d. Ventilation

3.7.3.1 Pumps and Motors

1. This section describes the following pump and motor design criteria:

a. Sizing Criteria
b. Calculations and Schematics
c. Packing

3.7.3.1.1 Sizing Criteria

1. Sewage pump selection should allow for up sizing or downsizing of impellers as dictated
by sewage flows.

2. Pump motors shall be three phase.

3. Pump station storage volume shall be designed for 10 minute fill time (average
theoretical flow) and 6.67 minute pump time for a total of 16.67 minute cycle time.

4. To accommodate the entire range of flow and head conditions derived from a system
curve analysis or computer modeling techniques, constant speed pumps are preferred;
however, two-speed or variable speed are acceptable if required. Motors shall be sized
so that the motor can run out on the pump curve without overheating.

5. Pump stations shall have a minimum of two pumps and shall be designed such that
peak flow can be handled with the largest pump out of commission. Pump stations shall
operate by alternating between pumps for each required pump run.

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6. Pumps in which solids pass through the impeller shall be at least capable of passing 3-
inch diameter spheres.

7. Design 6-inch volute submergence for pumps.

3.7.3.1.2 Calculations and Schematics

1. Calculations and schematics shall be prepared showing static head, system friction head
losses, minimum and maximum HRSD heads, Total Dynamic Head (TDH), and system
head curve for both single and multiple pump operation. System head curve shall show
high and low range of operating limits for C factors of both 100 and 120.

a. The engineer shall submit Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) and buoyancy
calculations. The engineer shall ensure that the proposed pump is designed to
handle the full possible range of NPSH.
b. All calculations submitted for review by the DPU shall be typed.
c. Contact the Hampton Roads Sanitation District Interceptor Engineer for static head
conditions. Contact the DPU Planning & Analysis Bureau for static head conditions
in city force main.
d. Pump and motor shall be sized for maximum energy efficiency.

2. Calculations shall be prepared and submitted to the DPU, for the ventilation system.

3.7.3.1.3 Packing

1. Mechanical seals are not to be used for dry well pumps, packing glands are to be used
instead.

3.7.3.2 Piping Systems

1. Internal suction and discharge piping and fittings within a sewage pumping station shall
be flanged ductile iron, Class 52. Full-face fiber reinforced gaskets are required with 150
pound flanges.

2. The engineer shall provide a gate and check valve on the ¾-inch HDPE air relief
recirculation line attached to the pump volute.

3. Wet well suction piping should be designed to minimize hydraulic interference and
maximize solids movement, as recommended by the Hydraulic Institute.

4. Suction piping shall be sized for a velocity range from 2 feet per second (fps) to 5 fps
over the range of pumping conditions.

5. Suction intakes shall be flared.

6. Horizontal spacing of down-turned suction intakes is generally three (3) times the
diameter of the suction flare. Vertical spacing is to be not less than 1/3 and not more
than ½ times the diameter of the suction flare off the finished floor.

7. The influent sewer shall have a gate valve inside the station (wet well) with a stainless
steel riser stem and hardware to allow operation from the top slab of the wet well. A
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corrosion resistant coating shall be applied to the gate valve for protection against
hydrogen sulfide gases.

8. The invert of the influent sewer shall be a minimum of one and one-half (1-½) feet above
the wet well high water level.

9. Discharge piping shall be sized for a velocity range from 2 fps to 8 fps over the range of
pumping conditions.

10. Air relief piping for a suction lift pump line shall be at least 1-¼ inches in diameter.

3.7.3.3 Valves

1. A gate valve must be provided on each suction line for a suction lift or wet well/dry well
pump station.

2. A check valve and gate valve must be provided on each pump discharge line. These
must be located in a separate valve vault that drains back to the wet well. The drain line
from the valve vault must be equipped with an anti-backflow device.

3.7.3.4 Ventilation

1. Wet well ventilation shall be mechanical and so arranged to ventilate the dry well
independently.

2. Continuous ventilation shall provide at least 12 complete air changes per hour.
Intermittent ventilation shall provide at least 30 complete air changes per hour.

3. Non-sparking fans shall be used for ventilation systems.

3.7.4 Structural Design

1. Sewage pumping station substructures shall be designed in accordance with ACI 318,
“Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete” and ACI 530-02, “Building Code
Requirements for Masonry Structures.”

2. Design shall incorporate provisions set forth in Administrative Directive 3.17 - Wind
speed Design Criteria for New City Buildings and Public School projects, located in
Appendix A.

3.7.4.1 Soil Bearing Capacity

1. The soil bearing capacity and the potential for flotation shall be determined through an
appropriate collection and analysis of soils information including groundwater
determination.

3.7.4.2 Minimum Wet Well Dimensions

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1. Minimum wet well area dimensions shall be 7' x 7'. The minimum wet well storage in
gallons shall be calculated as: Vstorage = 10 minutes x Qavg (gpm). This does not apply to
submersible stations. Refer to Section 3.2.1 of this manual for the determination of Qavg.

3.7.4.3 Thrust Restraint

1. Piping shall be adequately secured (both to the structural walls and with restrained
fittings to itself) to counter the effects of surge, water hammer and pump shut-off head.
Submit calculations to the DPU.

3.7.4.4 Access

1. Separate access must be provided for wet wells. The minimum hatch size is 36-inches
by 36-inches.

2. Ceiling lights in the dry well shall be accessible from the stairway.

3.7.4.5 Discharge Point

1. The sump pump and volute blow lines discharge point shall be one foot above the
intermediate platform. The discharge pipe shall be PVC material and shall have crosses
for fittings to allow cleaning.

3.7.4.6 Lifting Beam

1. A lifting beam shall be provided for stations with pumps or motors weighing less than
2000 pounds. Heavier equipment will be removed using a portable frame and hoist.

3.7.4.7 Hoist

1. Submersible stations will be provided with an A-frame with a hoist.

3.7.5 Electrical Design

1. This section describes the following aspects of electrical design within a wastewater
pump station:

a. Power Source
b. Motor Control Center

3.7.5.1 Power Source

1. An emergency power connection with a three-position Transfer Switch shall be required

for use with a portable generator (unless an emergency generator is a design
requirement for the station).

a. Unless otherwise directed by the DPU, pump stations with a peak capacity of 1,000
gpm or less shall have an emergency generator connection with an automatic
transfer switch. Automatic transfer switches or Service Rated transfer switches will

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be used in all stations with breakers on the generator side of the switch. A breaker
or fuse is needed at the point where the generator is connected to the station.

b. Pump stations with peak capacity greater than 1,000 gpm (or those deemed critical
by the DPU) shall have an on-site emergency generator with an automatic transfer
switch.

c. All stations with transfer switches shall have an access door built into the wall.
Contact DPU for Standard Details.

2. The Engineer, in conjunction with the local electric utility, shall determine the availability
of adequate electric service to the facility. New underground service shall be 480Y/227
volts, 60 Hz, 3 phase, 4 wire.

3. All electric service shall be underground and meters shall be located inside the building.

4. The Remote Telemetry Unit (RTU) and alarm system shall have battery back up rating of
at least 24 hours.

5. The station shall have an electrical outlet near the front door inside the building.

3.7.5.1.1 Emergency Generator Requirements

1. All generators shall be mounted on a concrete slab and the concrete slab shall be
independent from other concrete slabs or structures. The fencing material surrounding a
generator shall be fixed to the concrete slab.

2. Generators shall have a minimum of a 3 ft clearance on all sides from walls, fences,
buildings or other obstructions.

3. Refer to Section 400 of the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations for emergency
generator requirements.

4. Contact the DPU for all projects that require a new sanitary sewer pump station or an
upgrade to an existing pump station to ensure that emergency power availability is
satisfactory.

5. The finished surface of the concrete slab shall be 1 ft above the 100 yr flood plain
elevation. The generator shall be mounted above the 500 yr flood plain elevation.

3.7.5.2 Motor Control Center

1. The Motor Control Center is comprised of the following components:

a. Liquid Level Control

b. Controls and Starters
c. Wiring

3.7.5.2.1 Liquid Level Control Requirements

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1. Liquid level sensors for wet wells shall be the air bubbler type with panel face mounted
alternating switch.

2. Liquid level controls shall be equipped with dual compressors, air flow meters and
sufficient tubing to reach the bottom of the wet well.

3.7.5.2.2 Controls and Starters

1. Controls and starters shall be assembled by the control panel manufacturer in a single
panel and shall contain the following:

a. One properly sized main circuit breaker.

b. In 480 volt stations a step-down dry-type transformer shall be used to reduce voltage
down for station’s controls and lights.
c. A circuit breaker and starter for the starting of each pump motor. The breaker shall
be properly sized for motor running current and short circuit protection on all three
phases of the motor.
d. Reduced voltage starters shall be provided for motors of 75 HP and larger when 230
volt 3 phase is used.
e. One control circuit to provide lead, lag, and alternate operation of pumps with
provisions for Hand-Off-Auto operation (HOA). The switch for the pump lockout shall
be located approximately 5 feet from the floor of the dry well at the base of the
lighted stairway.
f. An HOA switch on the control panel which is to be lighted in automatic mode only.
g. An adjustable three phase voltage sensor to protect motors and motor starters from
single phasing and under-voltage.
h. Individual circuit breakers shall be provided for lights, ventilation fans, convenience
receptacles, heater, sump pump, and RTU receptacle, as required, with step-down
transformer for 115 volts AC to control separate circuits and station auxiliaries.
i. The unit heater voltage shall be 230 volts, single phase.
j. The panel shall be UL standard, white on the inside and exterior painted with gray
polyurethane paint.
k. The control panel shall have a National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)
12 rating. It shall be located in the motor room at least 12-inches above the floor.
l. Three-phase motors shall have overload protection.

3.7.5.2.3 Wiring

1. Panel and station wiring shall conform to all local building, electrical and fire codes;
National Electric Code (NEC); Standard Rules of American Institute of Electrical
Engineers (AIEE); NEMA; National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E and State
Fire Safety Regulations. Panels must have point to point wiring. All cabinets and boxes
shall be drawn to scale (for placement) on the plan.

2. All electrical receptacles shall be located four-feet above the floor.

3. Each air compressor shall be located above the panel and shall be provided a separate
receptacle with a selector switches for power and air flow.

4. The motor room shall be provided a separate exhaust fan with louver assembly.

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5. Only standard receptacles and ground fault interrupted (GFI) breakers shall be used.

3.7.6 Architectural Design and Aesthetics

1. The above ground structure of sewage pumping stations as it pertains to roofs, roof
shingles, brick, mortar, cornice trim, etc., will normally conform to the "Franco Georgian"
architecture. However, the facility must blend harmoniously into its environment,
especially in historically significant areas, and architecture appropriate for the
environment shall be determined as listed below:

a. Site design shall best balance the existing natural features at the site with access
and circulation needs. Landscaping shall be used to screen and buffer the facility as
well as obscuring external features that do not blend well with the surrounding area.
b. Building design shall provide a structure that is compatible with its surroundings by
incorporating design elements that provide visual interest consistent with the area.
Design elements shall balance material texture, roof lines, wall plane projections or
recesses with durability and maintainability.
c. The public involvement process of the DPU requires a public meeting before
construction of any new structure. The meeting shall be held early enough in the
design effort so that public input is fully incorporated into final design.

2. Pump station driveways shall be designed to a minimum width of 12 LF and a minimum

length of 50 LF. The layout of the driveway must provide adequate space for onsite
turnaround of standard sized maintenance vehicles.

3.7.7 Odor Control

1. Odor control shall be included in pump station design.

3.7.8 SCADA and Telemetry Requirements

1. The design for each sewage pumping station shall be provided with a remote telemetry
unit, antenna and associated equipment of the same type and compatible with the DPU
telemetry system and specifications. Alarm inputs shall be as specified by the DPU but,
at a minimum, shall include:

a. High water - wet well

b. High water - dry well or vault
c. Power failure from load side of main breaker
d. Intrusion alarm
e. Motor running indicators

3.7.9 Inspections and Testing

1. Sanitary sewer pump station related inspections and testing activities shall adhere to
Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of
Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007.

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3.7.10 Operations and Maintenance Manual Requirements

1. Pump station operation and maintenance manuals shall include the contents stipulated
by Section 140 and Section 950 of the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations.

3.7.11 Instrumentation Requirements

1. Refer to Section 3.7.8 of this manual for basic design requirements.

2. Refer to the Approved Products List for a list of acceptable instrumentation products.

3.7.12 Emergency Pump Connection

1. A pump connection for an emergency bypass is required.

3.7.13 Private Pump Stations

1. The design of private pump stations must adhere to the Commonwealth of Virginia
SCAT Regulations.

2. A Pump Station Plan Package is required in the submittal.

3. Refer to Section 3.8.12 of this manual for information pertaining to private sewer
connections to the City sewer.

3.7.14 Miscellaneous

1. The Engineer shall determine the need for protection of the pumping station against
hydrogen sulfide attack and shall provide the proper equipment if such protection is
necessary. Prevention of hydrogen sulfide generation should be an important design
consideration.

2. Cross connection control for sanitary sewer pump stations is required. Use a backflow
preventer 909QT or approved equal.

3. Provision for continuous operation shall be included with the pump station.

4. Pump station site surveying shall contain appropriate state coordinate, GPIN, and
address information.

5. Grading: site shall be graded to direct storm runoff away from pump station and wet well
top slab.

3.8 Force Mains

1. This section describes the standards for the following aspects of force main design:

a. Location

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b. Depth
c. System Capacity and Hydraulic Design
d. Velocity
e. Material Requirements
f. Corrosion Prevention
g. Thrust Protection Design
h. Air Relief and Vacuum Intake
i. Markers
j. Anchorage
k. Boring and Jacking
l. Standard Connection Requirements
m. Low Pressure Force Mains
n. Emergency Pump Connection
o. Inspections and Testing
p. Connection to HRSD

2. Refer to Section 440 of the Commonwealth of Virginia SCAT Regulations for additional
design criteria not fully described below.

3.8.1 Location

1. Sewage force mains shall be located in publicly owned rights-of-way parallel to the
center line, if practical, or in easements, in accordance with procedures established in
Section 2.3.6 of this manual.

2. Sewage force mains shall be laid on a continuous grade, generally 0.10%.

3.8.2 Depth

1. The minimum depth of cover shall not be less than 36 inches. Future re-grading shall be
taken into consideration.

3.8.3 System Capacity and Hydraulic Design

1. A Hazen-Williams coefficient of friction C equal to 100 shall be used for the purposes of
design unless the DPU has data to justify a different coefficient.

2. The Engineer shall contact the DPU Planning and Analysis Bureau for head conditions
in the DPU collection force main system.

3. The minimum diameter for a public force main is 4 inches.

4. Sewage force mains subjected to extreme variations in temperature (i.e., attached to

bridges or box culverts) shall be designed to account for pipe expansion and contraction
and to prevent the line contents from freezing.

3.8.4 Velocity

1. The minimum allowable velocity is 2 fps.

2. The maximum allowable velocity is 8 fps.

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3.8.5 Material Requirements

1. Strength Design

a. Protecto 401 Ductile Iron pipe and fittings (minimum Class 52) are required.
Strength calculations shall be used to verify the adequacy of the pipe, based on
operating pressures, depth of bury, trench width, foundation conditions, and test
pressures of 150 PSI for at least two (2) hours.

2. Refer to the DPU list of Approved Products List for additional material requirements.

3.8.6 Corrosion Prevention

1. Refer to Section V of the HRSD Standards and Preferences for Engineered Construction
Projects for information pertaining to corrosion prevention of force mains.

2. Refer to the H2S calculation form on the DPU Engineering & Construction - Forms
webpage for a template using Pomeroy equations for force main to gravity connections.

3.8.7 Thrust Protection Design

1. Thrust protection shall be provided for all bends, tees, reducers, and plugs. Thrust
restraint shall be determined by methodology presented in AWWA Manual M-11.

2. The retainer gland is the normally accepted method of joint restraint. See the DPU
Approved Products List.

3. Design calculations and summary table shall be submitted for the restraint lengths.

4. Representative soils information shall be submitted along the pipe alignment.

5. Thrust protection of the existing system may be warranted at offsets, cut-ins,

abandonments, etc.

6. Construction drawings shall reflect, in plan and profile, the location, type, and extent of
required thrust protection and/or provide a restraint table.

3.8.8 Air Relief and Vacuum Intake

1. Manual air release valves shall be located at high points of a force main. Minimize or
avoid vertical offsets.

2. Valves shall be located at approximate 1,000 foot intervals, at tees, at all changes in
pipe diameter, at connections to HRSD force mains, and at City force mains when being
manifolded. Valves shall be designed for installation at high points to control flow in the
event of a break.

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3. Additional valves may be required in environmentally sensitive areas. Valves will be

required on both sides of water crossings or bridges.

3.8.9 Markers

1. Witness posts shall be provided at each valve location along the path of force mains
installed in easements or right-of-ways in green belts, undeveloped areas, or when
directed by the DPU. Concrete collars 2'x2'x6" deep are also required in undeveloped
(i.e. grassy) areas.

3.8.10 Anchorage

1. A force main must be adequately anchored along the entire length of pipe as well as
inside the pump station.

2. Any necessary bends in the force main should be kept to a minimum.

3.8.11 Boring and Jacking

1. Refer to Section 3.3.3 of this manual for boring and jacking requirements.

3.8.12 Standard Connection Requirements

1. Force mains shall “tie in” directly to public force main only. The exception is that a
Single Family Residential force main may discharge to a manhole or “tie in” directly to a
service lateral if a manhole is not within 75-feet of the frontage of that lot. For Low
Pressure force main connections see Section 3.8.13. For connection details see the
DPU Standard Details.

2. Refer to DPU Standard Operating Policy No: PU SOP/ENG 1180 in Appendix A for
additional information regarding force main connection to gravity sewer.

3. Where approved by the Department of Public Utilities sewage force mains discharging
into a gravity sewer system shall have a saxophone connection and should enter the
receiving manhole so that the force main invert is horizontal and level with the center line
of the sewer main in the manhole. A bench shall be constructed to transition the flow
from the force main invert down to the main invert. Prior to establishing any force main
connection to a manhole H2S calculations shall be performed and the appropriate
manhole coating shall be install. See the DPU Approved Products List and Standard
Details.

4. Private Force Mains:

a. Require approval of an encroachment agreement for any private force main located
in a public right-of-way or easement.
b. Connection of a private force main to the public system shall be performed by the
Developer. Prior to making the connection, the Developer shall coordinate the "tie in"
with the DPU Operations Division and/or HRSD as needed.
c. Connection of a private force main to a public force main shall be by either 1) a
tapping sleeve and valve or, 2) a tee with a 4-inch (minimum) gate valve. A tapping

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sleeve will not be permitted if the new force main is of the same diameter as the
existing force main. See the Standard Details.
d. Single Family Residential Force Mains:

i. Require the Engineer to contact DPU to schedule an inspection prior to

implementing the connection to an existing Vitrified Clay Pipe (VCP) lateral.
ii. Connection to the sewer lateral shall be made with a DPU approved reducer
bushing. See the DPU Approved Products List
(http://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/public-utilities/Engineering-
Construction/Approved-Products/Pages/default.aspx)
iii. Connection to the gravity sewer shall have a saxophone connection and
enter the receiving connection so that the force main invert is horizontal and
level with the center line of the main or lateral. If the connection is made at a
manhole a bench shall be constructed to transition the flow from the force
main invert down to the main line invert..

3.8.13 Connection to Low Pressure Force Mains (LPFM)

1. Lateral flushing chambers shall be placed at the right-of-way lines. If not feasible at the
right-of-way, a variance for placing the flushing chamber in an appropriately sized
easement may be considered by the DPU. See Standard Details.

2. LPFM shall have a minimum of six (6) inch vertical clearance between curbs, gutters,
sidewalks, driveways, and ramps. The minimum depth of cover at ditch crossings shall
be eighteen (18) inches from the lowest likely ditch invert. Avoid installing flushing
chambers in existing or proposed sidewalk, driveways, paved areas, drainage ways or
depressed areas.

3. Private LPFM owners shall install a backflow control device at the upstream end of the
LPFM connection located on the private side.

4. Low pressure force mains shall have a minimum diameter of 4-inches. Any exceptions
to this requirement shall require a variance approved by the DPU.

5. Low pressure force mains laterals (LPFML) shall be schedule (40) PVC pipe with brass
fittings. LPFML shall not exceed 75-feet in length and have a pipe diameter of 2-inches.
The valve vault and components as listed in the “Low Pressure Force Main Connection
Detail” shall be provided by the City.

3.8.14 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for force main
inspections and testing requirements.

3.8.15 Connection to HRSD

1. Where force mains are to be connected to HRSD interceptors or manifolded to existing

City force mains or discharged to a manhole, the design calculations shall include the
ultimate hydraulic parameters of the receiving system.

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2. The Engineer shall contact the HRSD Interceptor Engineer (757-460-7015) to determine
the operating pressure range of the collection force main system.

3. Refer to the HRSD connection standards for additional information.

3.9 Wastewater Collection System Component Abandonment

1. This section describes guidelines for the abandonment of the following wastewater
collection system components:

a. Gravity Sanitary Sewer Main

b. Manholes
c. Service Connections
d. Vacuum Sanitary Sewer Main and Service Pits
e. Wastewater Pump Stations
f. Force Mains

3.9.1 Gravity Sanitary Sewer Main

1. When a gravity sanitary sewer main is to be abandoned:

a. Disconnect all lateral service connections at the main.

b. Clean and purge the pipe.
c. Fill gravity sewer main with flowable fill.
d. Contact the DPU to ensure that GIS records are updated and the main is charted as
abandoned.

3.9.2 Manholes

1. When a manhole is to be abandoned:

a. Plug all connections to the manhole.

b. Clean and purge the manhole.
c. Remove manhole frame, grate and chimney to 2 feet below grade.
d. Fill with flowable fill.
e. Contact the DPU to ensure that GIS records are updated and the manhole is charted
as abandoned.

3.9.3 Service Connections

1. When a service connection is to be abandoned:

a. Sanitary sewer laterals shall be abandoned at the main line wye.

b. Clean and purge the lateral.
c. The sanitary sewer lateral shall be detached from the gravity main by removing a (3)
ft. section of the lateral pipe at the main and the connection at the City main shall be
capped or plugged based upon a method approved by PU Engineering.
d. The sanitary sewer cleanout and lateral shall be removed from the right-of-way to the
pavement/back of curb and then the remaining lateral shall be capped or plugged.

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e. Contact the DPU to ensure that GIS records are updated and the service connection
is charted as abandoned

3.9.4 Vacuum Sanitary Sewer Main and Service Pits

1. When a vacuum sanitary sewer main is to be abandoned:

a. Remove the service pits.

b. Clean and purge.
c. Fill the main with flowable fill.
d. Contact the DPU to ensure that GIS records are updated and the main is charted as
abandoned.

3.9.5 Wastewater Pump Stations

1. When a pump station is to be abandoned:

a. Remove all surface features from the building.

b. Cut the wet well to 2 feet below grade and fill with flowable or select fill.
c. Prepare abandonment drawings.
d. Contact the DPU to ensure that GIS records are updated and the pump station is
charted as abandoned.

3.9.6 Force Mains

1. When a force main is to be abandoned:

a. Sanitary sewer force mains shall be abandoned at the City main tee. The tee shall be
restrained as necessary.
b. A minimum three (3) ft. section of pipe shall be removed between the tee and the
proposed abandoned main.
c. Clean and purge the force main.
d. The valve shall be removed, and the tee shall be plugged/flanged. The abandoned
main shall be capped or plugged.
e. Contact the DPU Operations Department to determine if the force main is re-usable.
If it is not, fill with flowable fill.
f. Contact the DPU to ensure that GIS records are updated and the force main is
charted as abandoned.
.

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4 Water Distribution and Transmission Systems

4.1 General

1. This section describes the following water distribution and transmission considerations:

a. Subdivision Ordinance
b. Master Plan Requirements
c. Pressure Zones
d. Subsurface Investigations
e. Inspections and Testing
f. Construction Considerations

4.1.1 Subdivision Ordinance

1. Refer to the Virginia Beach City Code - Appendix B – Subdivision Regulations –

Required Improvements – Section 5.8 – Water Supply for information.

4.1.2 Master Plan Requirements

1. Refer to the Water Utility section of the CIP for information regarding planned water
utility projects.

2. Contact the DPU for any relevant updates to the City of Virginia Beach Department of
Public Utilities Water System Master Plan Update (July 2009).

3. Refer to Section 2.2.1 of this manual for general Comprehensive Plan related
information and documentation.

4.1.3 Pressure Zones

1. Pressures in the City’s water distribution system typically remain between 40 and 70 psi.
Developers are to contact the DPU to ensure that water main pressures are within the
allowable range.

2. To obtain the appropriate design pressures, the engineer must request the System
Capacity Curve from the Public Utilities Planning Department.

4.1.4 Subsurface Investigations

1. Refer to Section 3.1.4 of this manual for subsurface investigation requirements.

4.1.5 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for applicable water
distribution and transmission inspections and testing standards.

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4.1.6 Construction Considerations

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for material,
construction and testing requirements.

2. The permanent water meter shall be installed only after a contractor, developer, or
property owner has constructed the footings or slab for the structure. Additionally, if work
is required in the City right-of-way, including any abandonment of existing water service
taps; all work must pass inspections performed by DPU prior to the request for
permanent water meter installation. The contractor, developer, or property owner must
contact DPU Inspections at (757) 385-4171 at least 48 hours prior to construction in the
City’s right of way or easements. The contractor, developer, or property owner must
contact DPU Inspections to schedule an inspection prior to backfill of the water service
line.

4.1.7 Surface Water Crossings

1. Surface water crossings, both over and under water, present special problems and
should be discussed with the Virginia Department of Health Office of Drinking Water
before final plans are prepared.

2. The pipe above water crossings shall be adequately supported, protected from freeze
damage, accessible for repair or replacement, and shall be above the 100-year flood
level.

3. The pipe under water crossings shall be of special construction, having flexible
watertight joints. Valves shall be provided at both ends of the water crossing so that the
section can be isolated for tests or repair. The valves shall be easily accessible and not
subject to flooding. Sample taps shall be available at each end of the crossing and at a
reasonable distance from each side of the crossing and not subject to flooding.
Permanent taps shall be made for testing and for locating leaks.

4.2 Water Demand

1. Domestic and fire flow demands shall be analyzed both separately and concurrently and
pipes shall be sized in accordance with Section 4.2.1 and Section 4.2.2 of this manual.

4.2.1 Domestic Demand

1. Demand for single family residential units shall be sized at 225 gallons/unit/day.

4.2.2 Fire Flow Demand

1. Rates of flow for fire protection shall be based on the National Fire Protection
Association Handbook, latest edition, the Insurance Services Office Guide, latest edition,
and AWWA Manual 31, except as modified herein.

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2. The water distribution system shall not be required to accommodate fire flow greater
than 1750 gpm at 20 psi residual pressure. Alternative fire protection (sprinkling, tanks,
etc.) may be required where water quality may be jeopardized by mains sized for high
fire flow.

3. Refer to Item #6 of Section 4.3.6 of this manual for the maximum allowable velocity
requirement under fire flow conditions.

4.2.3 Other

1. Average daily water consumption rates shall be as indicated in the Virginia Waterworks
Regulations. Refer to the International Plumbing Code for demands not contained in the
Waterworks Regulations.

4.3 Water Main Criteria

1. This section provides information on the following subjects relating to water mains:

a. Jurisdictional Agency Approvals

b. Service Connections
c. Alignment and Easement Requirements
d. Water Main Extensions
e. Water Main Classifications
f. Hydraulic Requirements
g. Thrust Restraint
h. Corrosion Prevention
i. Separation
j. Start-Up and Commissioning Period
k. Valve Spacing Requirement
l. Inspections and Testing
m. Record Drawings

4.3.1 Jurisdictional Agency Approvals

1. All affected jurisdictional agencies shall be consulted to determine their specific design
requirements prior to obtaining a notice to proceed with the construction of any water
main.

2. The most stringent design requirements of any affected agency shall take precedence.

4.3.2 Service Connections

1. Each service connection shall have an individual tap.

2. No service connections are to be tapped into a fire hydrant line.

3. Under normal circumstances one water service connection is allowed per lot. Lots with
duplexes are permitted two service connections. A variance is required for multiple
service connections.

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4. Water meters shall be placed at the right-of-way line. Avoid placement of water meters
in driveways, sidewalks, paved areas, ditches, drainage swales or BMP's.

5. When necessary, a combination meter may be approved for use, via the variance
process. Refer to the DPU Standard Details for combination vault requirements.

6. Service taps are not permitted on water transmission mains, unless approved by the
DPU.

7. Refer to the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of

Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for additional standards.

8. Contact the DSC for information pertaining to the payment of service connection related
fees.

9. Refer to the Virginia Beach City Code - Chapter 37 – Article I for additional information
relating to service connections and installation fees.

4.3.2.1 Water Meter Sizing

1. Standard meter sizes are: 5/8-inch, 1-inch, 1 1/2-inches, 2-inches, 3-inches, 4-inches,
6-inches, and 8-inches. Residential meters are generally 5/8-inch.

2. Calculations for water meters sizes shall be performed in accordance with AWWA
Manual, M22, "Sizing Water Service Lines and Meters."

3. Refer to DPU Standard Operating Policy No. PU SOP/ENG 1182 for additional
information regarding water meter sizing.

4. In accordance with the water industry accepted practices to select the appropriately
sized meter for a development, the proposed domestic and fire flow demands must be
submitted by the consulting engineer. If a single family or duplex development is
required to contain a fire suppression system, then the demand generated by the
specific system designed for the residence must be submitted to the DSC with the site
plan to ensure that the water meter is sized correctly to handle the expected range of
flow with adequate pressure for the fire suppression system.

5. The water meter sizing determined by the fire flow may exceed the required meter sized
to provide domestic flow alone. The HRSD facility fee is based on the domestic demand.
The larger meter size may increase the development cost for utilities. The City will
submit an HRSD fee waiver request on behalf of the utility customer in order to assess
the HRSD fee based on the domestic demand only. While this is an additional step in the
site plan review process, it is undertaken in order to provide utility customers with the
lowest available utility rates

4.3.2.2 Service Line Sizing

1. Standard service line sizes are: 1-inch, 1.5-inches, 2-inches, 3-inches, 4-inches, 6-
inches, and 8-inches. Residential service lines are generally 1-inch.

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2. The smallest allowable line diameter is 1 inch.

3. Calculations for service line sizes shall be performed in accordance with AWWA Manual,
M22, "Sizing Water Service Lines and Meters."

4.3.3 Alignment and Easement Requirements

1. The placement of public water lines in easements will require approval via the variance
process. The minimum easement width for consideration is twenty (20) feet centered on
the water line.

4.3.4 Water Main Extensions

1. The Planning and Analysis office within the Engineering Division of the DPU shall be
consulted prior to the construction of any proposed water main extensions. Refer to the
DPU Engineering and Construction webpage for additional information.

2. Water main extensions shall adhere to any relevant distribution and transmission main
design standards. Refer to Section 4.4 and Section 4.5 of this manual for these
standards.

3. Refer to the Virginia Beach City Code - Chapter 37 for additional information relating to
water main extensions.

4.3.5 Water Main Classifications

1. Refer to Section 1.4 of this manual for definitions of “Distribution Main” and
“Transmission Main”.

4.3.6 Hydraulic Requirements

1. Water distribution systems shall be designed to provide adequate flow and pressure for
both domestic supply and fire flow, based on sound hydraulic system modeling and in
accordance with AWWA Manual 31.

2. Design calculations shall be submitted to show adequate system capacity for the
required domestic and fire flow demand based on the existing and proposed system
configuration and sizing. The design calculations may be accomplished by the use of
the Hardy-Cross network analysis method or hydraulic modeling software (i.e. Stoner,
Cybernet, KY Pipe, etc.) acceptable to the DPU.

3. A Hazen-Williams coefficient of friction, C, equal to 120 shall be used for purposes of

design for new pipes. Friction coefficient for existing pipes shall be determined based on
the best available information.

4. Values of existing system pressures and flows shall be provided by the DPU for use in
preparing hydraulic calculations.

5. The maximum allowable velocity is 5 fps for domestic design.

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6. The maximum allowable velocity is 9 fps for fire flow.

4.3.6.1 Acceptable Pipe Materials

1. Ductile Iron Pipe - Shall meet requirements of ANSI/AWWA C151/A21.51-2002,

thickness class 52 with a single thickness of cement/mortar lining with bituminous seal
coat. Thickness design shall meet requirements of ANSI/AWWA C150/A21.50-2002.
For burial depths exceeding those allowed by the class, pipe and fittings of sufficient wall
thickness shall be provided. Cement-mortar linings shall meet requirements of
ANSI/AWWA C104/A21.4. Structural requirements must be considered in the design of
all water lines and the proper strengths determined for the pipe materials being
specified.

2. Minimum of Class 52 ductile iron pipe. Test pressure of 150 psi for at least two hours.

3. Gaskets are to be fiber reinforced with current in accordance with AWWA requirement.

4. Refer to Article 6 of Section 1110 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks

Regulations for additional information.

5. Refer to the DPU Approved Products List for additional information.

4.3.6.2 Pipe Sizing

1. Minimum pipe size shall be 6-inches on looped systems.

2. On the last 500 feet of pipe located beyond the last hydrant on cul-de-sacs or streets
which cannot be extended, 4-inch pipe may be used if hydraulic demand is met.

4.3.7 Thrust Restraint

1. Thrust protection shall be provided, as required, for all bends, tees, valves, reducers,
and plugs.

2. Retainer glands are used normally as the method of joint restraint. See the DPU
Approved Products List for other restraint systems.

3. Design calculations and a summary table shall be submitted for proposed restraint
lengths.

4. Representative soils information shall be submitted along the pipe alignment.

5. Hydrants normally shall be restrained by means of retainer glands and/or, swivel

adapters. The variance process will be followed for any other method of restraint.

6. Valves and kicker joints used for future extension of the main shall be restrained.

7. Thrust blocks will not be permitted on new or proposed pipe.

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8. Thrust protection of the existing system may be warranted at offsets, cut-ins,

abandonments, etc.

9. Construction drawings shall reflect, in plan and profile, the location, type, and extent of
required thrust protection and/or provide restraint table.

4.3.8 Corrosion Prevention

1. Corrosion potential shall be analyzed through appropriate soils information, stray

current, and dissimilar metal analysis. Proper corrosion protection shall be provided.

2. Refer to the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia Department of

Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for additional guidelines pertaining
to corrosion prevention.

4.3.9 Separation

1. This section discusses the required amount of separation of water mains from the
following types of structures:

a. Sanitary Sewer Mains

b. Wastewater System Structures
c. Storm Drains and Culverts
d. Other Utilities

4.3.9.1 Sanitary Sewer Mains

1. A minimum of 18” of vertical separation is required between water mains and sanitary
sewer mains.

2. A minimum of 10’ of horizontal separation is required between water mains and sanitary
sewer mains.

3. If the horizontal and vertical separation requirements cannot be obtained, a variance

must be requested from the DPU.

4.3.9.2 Wastewater System Structures

1. A minimum of 18” of vertical separation is required between water mains and

wastewater system structures.

2. A minimum of 10’ of horizontal separation is required between water mains and

wastewater system structures.

3. If the horizontal and vertical separation requirements cannot be obtained, a variance

must be requested from the DPU.

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4.3.9.3 Storm Drains and Culverts

1. Refer to Section 3.3.10.3 of this manual for guidelines for the separation of water mains
from storm drains and culverts.

4.3.9.4 Other Utilities

1. Refer to Section 3.3.10.4 of this manual for guidelines for the separation of water mains
and any underground utility.

4.3.10 Start-Up and Commissioning Period

1. A water main construction project will be considered functional upon completion of the
required inspections and testing activities. See Section 4.1.5 of this manual for details.

2. Water mains shall be appropriately disinfected prior to activation and operation. Refer to
Section 1210 of the Waterworks Regulations for information pertaining to required and
acceptable disinfection practices.

3. The start-up and commissioning period may begin upon the completion of any required
inspections and testing and disinfection activities. Details of the start-up and
commissioning period shall be included in the scope of the project by the design
engineer.

4.3.11 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for applicable water
main inspections and testing standards.

4.3.12 Record Drawings

1. Refer to Section 2.3.10.6 of this manual for record drawing requirements.

4.4 Distribution Design Criteria

1. This section describes the standards for the following aspects of water distribution main
design criteria:

a. Location/Alignment
b. Depth
c. Fire Hydrant Requirements
d. Line Valves
e. Restraint Systems
f. Air Release
g. Inspections and Testing
h. Cross Connections and Backflow Prevention

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i. Water Distribution System Plan Requirements

4.4.1 Location/Alignment

1. Water mains on bridge crossings should be suspended from the side of the bridge.

2. Water mains shall be located in publicly owned right-of-ways or public utility easement
no closer than 5 feet from the right-of-way or easement lines. Greater horizontal
distances shall be considered based upon pipe size and depth.

3. Water mains exposed to extreme variations in temperature (e.g. attached to bridges or

box culverts) shall be designed to allow for expansion and contraction and to prevent
freezing of the line contents.

4.4.2 Depth

1. The minimum depth of cover is 36-inches.

4.4.3 Valve Spacing Requirement

1. Valves shall be located at intervals of not more than 1,000 feet and shall be included at
connection points to other mains.

4.4.4 Fire Hydrant Requirements

1. Fire hydrants not located at intersections shall be located at the side lot lines. Poles and
other above-ground structures shall be a minimum of 3 feet from hydrants (to allow hose
connections).

2. At major intersections, hydrants shall be located on opposite diagonal corners.

3. Hydrants shall be located in such a way as to minimize damage by errant vehicles.

4. Limit placement of hydrants in the median to those situations where placement behind
the curb and gutter is impractical.

5. A fire hydrant shall be located within 50 feet of any Fire Department Siamese
connection.

4.4.4.1 Fire Hydrant Spacing

1. Fire hydrant spacing shall be measured along lines of vehicular access and shall
conform to the following:

a. The maximum distance between hydrants shall be 1,000 feet. No residential

structure shall be farther than 500 feet from a public fire hydrant.
b. Within 500 feet of the end of a cul-de-sac.
c. For properties zoned multi-family residential, commercial, or industrial, fire hydrant
spacing shall not exceed 800 feet nor require a hose lay of over 400 feet along lines
of vehicular access to the structure to be protected.

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2. Spacing criteria for fire hydrants may be modified by the DPU to improve fire hydrant
accessibility or to satisfy fire flow demand requirements.

3. For road sections of four lanes or more, the hydrant spacing for each side of the street
shall be independent of the other.

4.4.4.2 Minimum Hydrant Line Size

1. The minimum size water line used for fire protection shall be 6-inch diameter for looped
systems, and 8-inch diameter for unlooped systems.

4.4.5 Line Valves

1. Valves are required at all pipe line intersections. Generally, two (2) valves shall be
provided at tees and three (3) valves shall be provided at crosses.

2. Valves shall be placed at departure and return points for aerial crossings.

3. A 2-inch blow-off shall be provided at the end of all dead-end lines.

4. Valves shall be located at intervals of not more than 1,000 feet.

4.4.6 Restraint Systems

1. Refer to Section 4.3.7 of this manual for additional information pertaining to thrust
restraint standards and requirements.

4.4.7 Air Release

1. Manual air release valves shall be provided at high points as necessary.

4.4.8 Inspections and testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for applicable water
distribution main inspections and testing standards.

4.4.9 Cross Connections and Backflow Prevention

1. No flushing device, blow off, or hydrant drain shall be directly connected to any sewer.

2. Refer to the Virginia Beach City Code - Chapter 37 – Article III for cross connection and
backflow prevention related policies and standards.

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4.4.10 Water Distribution System Plan Requirements – Checklist

1. If the distribution main is for regular development, refer to the DSC Submittal Subdivision
Construction Plan Package checklist. If the distribution main is part of a CIP, contact the
Department of Public Works to determine if any checklists are required.

4.5 Transmission Mains - Design Criteria

1. This section describes the standards for the following aspects of water distribution main
design criteria:

a. Location/Alignment
b. Depth
c. Line Valves and Spacing
d. Restraint Systems
e. Air/Vacuum Valve Assemblies
f. Appurtenant Facilities
g. Design Survey Requirements
h. Inspections and Testing
i. Transmission Main Plan Requirements – Checklist

4.5.1 Location/Alignment

1. The standards for the location and alignment of distribution and transmission mains are
identical. Refer to Section 4.4.1 of this manual for details.

4.5.2 Depth

1. The minimum depth of cover is 36-inches.

4.5.3 Line Valves and Spacing

1. Butterfly valves shall be specified for use in mains sixteen (16) inches and larger in
diameter.

2. Refer to Section 4.4.5 of this manual for line valve standards and requirements.

3. Refer to Section 4.4.3 of this manual for valve spacing requirements.

4.5.4 Restraint Systems

1. Refer to Section 4.3.7 of this manual for additional information pertaining to thrust
restraint standards and requirements.

4.5.5 Air/Vacuum Valve Assemblies

1. Manual air release valves shall be provided at high points as necessary.

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2. Vacuum valves are not permitted.

3. Air release valve assemblies for transmission mains must be approved by the DPU.

4. Air release valve assemblies will be used only when it is deemed inappropriate to use a
fire hydrant instead.

4.5.6 Appurtenant Facilities

1. The location of outlets and tie-ins to any proposed or existing facility must be approved
by the DPU.

2. An access vault may be necessary in some instances. The DPU shall be consulted in
these cases.

4.5.7 Design Survey Requirements

1. Design survey requirements for water transmission systems shall adhere to the
standards described in Section 2.4.5 of this manual.

4.5.8 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for applicable water
transmission main inspections and testing standards.

4.5.9 Transmission Main Plan Requirements – Checklist

1. If the transmission main is for regular development, refer to the DSC Submittal
Subdivision Construction Plan Package checklist. If the transmission main is part of a
CIP, contact the Department of Public Works to determine if any checklists are required.

4.6 Fire Line Systems

1. This section describes the following aspects of fire line systems:

a. Acceptable Pipe Materials

b. Design Requirements

4.6.1 Acceptable Pipe Materials

1. Refer to Section 4.3.6.1 of this manual for acceptable pipe materials.

2. The Fire Marshal’s Office shall be consulted for additional information regarding
acceptable pipe materials for fire line systems.

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4.6.2 Design Requirements

1. Fire line system design will meet the minimum criteria established in Section 4.2.2 and
Section 4.3.6 of this manual.

4.7 Irrigation Systems and Water Features

1. This section describes the following aspects of irrigation systems and water features:

a. Design Requirements
b. Landscape Water Permit
c. Limitations on Water Use

4.7.1 Design Requirements

1. Provisions shall be made to prevent cross-connections. Approved backflow prevention

devices shall be used. Refer to Section 4.8 of this manual for details on backflow
prevention.

2. In compliance with state regulations, irrigation systems are typically designed not to
discharge to surface waters.

4.7.2 Landscape Water Permit

1. A landscape water permit shall be required for irrigation of large turf related facilities
including cemeteries, golf courses, and parks. Contact the City’s Department of
Planning Permits and Inspections Division for the necessary requirements.

4.7.3 Limitations on Water Use

1. Refer to DPU Standard Operating Procedure Policy No. PU SOP/BD 5080 located in
Appendix A of this manual for information related to limitations on water use.

4.8 Backflow Prevention

1. Refer to the DPU Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Policy (awaiting
approval by the City Council).

2. Refer to the City’s Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Program webpage for
additional information.

4.8.1 Reduced Pressure Zone Devices

1. All backflow prevention devices shall be installed according to the Uniform Statewide
Building Code and the DPU Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Policy.

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4.8.2 Detector Checks

1. Where existing fire protection systems have detector checks installed at the connection
to the public water supply system for fire mains and these mains are equipped with
private fire hydrants and located in the consumer’s yard, no backflow prevention or cross
connection control will be required.

4.9 Water System/Component Abandonment

1. Water service lines shall be abandoned at the City main. The water service line shall be
detached from the corporation stop by removing a (3) ft. section of pipe at the main. The
corporation stop is to be turned off and capped. The existing water meter and box shall
be removed and delivered to Public Utilities/Operations (3500 Dam Neck Road, Virginia
Beach, VA 23456).

2. Water service mains shall be abandoned at the City main tee. The tee shall be
restrained as necessary. The valve shall be removed, and the tee shall be
plugged/flanged. A minimum (3) ft. section of pipe shall be removed between the tee
and the proposed abandoned main. The abandoned main shall be capped or plugged.

3. When water system components are abandoned, ensure that updated drawings are
produced and submitted to the City.

4. Contact the DPU to ensure that GIS records are updated and the asset is charted as
abandoned.

5. The contractor, developer, or property owner must obtain a letter from DPU stating utility
services have been terminated prior to obtaining a demolition permit. The demolition
permit cannot be issued without the termination letter. The water meter (if existing) must
be removed prior to receiving this letter. The contractor, developer, or property owner
shall contact DPU at (757) 385-4631 to request the water service termination and
removal of the existing water meter. A DFU (Drainage Fixture Unit) inspection may be
requested from Permits and Inspections at (757) 385-4211. This inspection will record
what plumbing fixtures are in the building being demolished or altered. Public Utilities
can only credit the property for the existing plumbing fixtures and associated DFU credits
with a DFU inspection.

6. When a structure is being demolished, the DSC utility plan submittal must denote the
removal of an existing water meter including the DPU identification number (field
verified). If the water meter has been removed, state this on the plan.

4.10 Construction Meters

1. This section describes the following subjects:

a. Hydrant Meter Program

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b. Residential Construction Meters

4.10.1 Hydrant Meter Program

1. Refer to the DPU Policy No. PU SOP/BD 5079 in Appendix A for information regarding
fire hydrant meter rentals.

4.10.2 Construction Meter (residential)

1. Water meters for construction purposes require the completion of an application to DPU
and the establishment of a separate account for construction water consumption billing.
DPU will evaluate the field conditions prior to approving applications; allow 1-2 days for
this process. If a construction water meter utilizes the existing water service tap intended
for the future structure, then DPU will only charge one water meter installation fee.
However, if the contractor, developer, or property owner requests temporary use of the
existing water service tap that is to be abandoned or to be relocated to the right-of-way
line, a water meter installation fee shall be paid with the application for a construction
water meter. Additionally, a permanent water meter installation fee will also apply.
Construction meter accounts are unique in that they only bill for water consumption and
not for other associated fees.

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5 Other Water Facilities

5.1 General

1. This section describes the following water distribution and transmission considerations:

a. Water Production Facilities Criteria

b. Jurisdictional Agency Approvals
c. Environmental, Biological and Cultural Assessment

5.1.1 Water Production Facilities Criteria

1. The City of Virginia Beach does not operate any water production facilities. Potable
water is purchased from the City of Norfolk and distributed by water mains owned by the
City of Virginia Beach.

5.1.2 Jurisdictional Agency Approvals

1. All affected jurisdictional agencies shall be consulted to determine their specific design
requirements prior to obtaining a notice to proceed with the construction of any water
production or other water facility.

2. The most stringent design requirements of any affected agency shall take precedence.

5.1.3 Environmental, Biological and Cultural Assessment

1. During the design of any water facility, the following considerations shall be taken into
account:

a. As part of the required Engineering report, the recommended site shall be reviewed
for the following environmental concerns: (1) wetlands, (2) Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) Level 1 (Level 2 as needed) environmental assessment, (3)
Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act, and (4) Hazardous materials.
b. A thorough consideration of the environmental, biological and cultural impact shall be
made to identify any mitigating requirements.
c. When waters of the United States are impacted, care shall be taken to ensure that
plans are in accordance with the Clean Water Act.

5.1.4 Project Site Requirements

1. Water pumping facilities and storage facilities shall be enclosed within a security fence,
with double gates, and ample lighting to deter vandalism.

2. Site plan approval is required though the Development Services Center in accordance
with the City's Site Plan Ordinance.

3. Landscaping shall be provided in compliance with City standards.

4. A weather and vandal proof above ground structure shall house the station's electrical,
mechanical, and control equipment.

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5. Access openings and walkways shall be situated to accommodate maintenance and the
removal of equipment.

6. Treads for ladders and stairs shall be of nonslip materials.

7. The need for potable water, closets, sink, and lavatories shall be determined by the
DPU.

8. Sump pumps shall be provided in water pumping stations and storage facilities in piping
and/or equipment vaults where an accessible storm drainage system is not available.

9. Use mechanical seals with pumps.

5.1.5 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

1. All water pumping facilities and associated water storage facilities shall have a computer
based SCADA system to provide the capability to remotely monitor and control the
facility.

2. The SCADA system must be compatible with the DPU Control Center system.

3. The SCADA system must contain sufficient inputs and outputs for the safe and efficient
monitoring and control of the pump station operating parameters, pump station
components and pump station safety alarms.

4. Un-interrupted Power Supply (UPS) and battery back-up shall be provided, sufficient to
run the SCADA and radio system for four hours.

5.1.6 Electrical Design

1. Panel and station wiring shall conform to all local building, electrical and fire codes;
NEC; Standard Rules of American Institute of Electrical Engineers; NEMA; NFPA 70E
and State Fire Safety Regulations. Panels must have point to point wiring. All cabinets
and boxes shall be drawn to scale (for placement) on the plan.

2. Control panels shall be equipped with capacity to allow for 25 percent expansion of
inputs and outputs.

5.1.6.1 Power Source

1. The Engineer, in conjunction with the local power company, shall determine the
availability of adequate service to the facility.

2. The Engineer will also determine the need for primary service extension.

3. Minimum voltage requirements for a water pumping station shall be 480Y/277 volts, 60
Hz, 3 phase. Power shall be stepped-down with a transformer on the DPU side of the
meter, as necessary.

4. All electric service to water pumping facilities shall be underground and meters shall be
located inside the building and configured for remote reading.
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5. Auxiliary power shall be provided by a generator capable of meeting design flow

conditions. Fuel supply capacity shall be five days at full load.

6. Motors shall be equipped with soft start solid state motors.

5.1.6.2 Controls

1. Controls and starters shall be assembled in panels and shall contain the necessary
components to efficiently operate the facility, including accessories. Additional
requirements may be directed by the DPU.

2. Altitude valves will be required for all water storage tanks.

3. Surge suppression shall be provided to all incoming and outgoing conductors (power,
signal, telephone, antenna cables, etc.).

5.1.6.3 Internal Wiring

1. Panel and station wiring shall conform to all local building, electrical and fire codes;
NEC; Standard Rules of American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE); NEMA; and
State Fire Safety Regulations. Panels must have point to point wiring. All cabinets and
boxes shall be drawn to scale (for placement) on the plan.

2. Control panels shall be equipped with capacity to allow for 25 percent expansion of
inputs and outputs.

5.1.7 Piping Systems

1. Internal suction and discharge piping and fittings within a water pumping facility shall be
flanged ductile iron, or welded steel. Gaskets shall be fiber reinforced.

2. Each pump shall be valved on both suction and discharge piping.

3. Tanks shall be capable of being placed on either the suction or discharge side of the
pump station via use of remotely operated valves (known as phase transfer).

4. Tanks shall be equipped with an isolation valve at the tank discharge and shall be
capable of remote operation via the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
system.

5. Piping shall be adequately restrained to counter the effects of surge and water hammer.

5.1.8 Valves

1. A valve and piping schedule shall include information regarding size, class, type, flow
range, actuator type and other details as necessary. Refer to the City’s Approved
Products List for further information.

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2. Under normal circumstances valves shall be installed so they can be operated without
requiring vault entry. A variance is required if a vault entry cannot be avoided.

5.1.9 Flow Metering

1. An on-site flow metering system is required. Isolation valves are required for
maintenance and repair. The meter shall be installed above ground and shall include an
enclosure, with a rate of flow and totalizer read head.

5.1.10 Operations and Maintenance Manual Requirements

1. At a minimum, the Operation and Maintenance manual shall include guidelines for
routine preventative maintenance and record keeping.

5.1.11 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for system material,
construction and testing requirements.

5.1.12 Record Drawings

1. Refer to Section 2.3.10.6 of this manual for record drawings requirements.

5.2 Pumping Facilities

1. This section describes the following aspects of the design of water pumping facilities:

a. Pumping Units and Size

b. Design Criteria
c. Inspections and Testing

5.2.1 Pumping Units and Size

1. Calculations and schematics shall be prepared showing static head, system friction head
losses, Total Dynamic Head (TDH), and system head curve for both single and multiple
pump operation. System head curve shall show high and low range of operating limits.

2. Constant speed pumps are preferred. A two speed or a variable speed pump may be
accepted if the design warrants.

5.2.2 Design Criteria

1. Proper location of the pumping station is of prime importance within the proposed
service area. The ultimate goal is to minimize the number of pumping stations for the
area to be served while maintaining the hydraulics of the system, water quality and
protection from hazards. The maximum allowable velocity is 5 fps for domestic design
and 9 fps for fire flow.

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2. The soil bearing capacity and potential for flotation of pump stations and storage facility
sites shall be determined through an appropriate collection and analysis of soils
information.

3. Water pumping station and storage facility substructures shall be in accordance with ACI
318, "Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete" standards.

4. The Seismic Zone Map contained in Appendix A of AWWA D100 shall be reviewed prior
to design.

5. Set all motors, pumps, electrical panels, transformers, batteries, etc above the 500-year
flood elevation.

6. Design shall incorporate Administrative Directive 3.17 – Wind Speed Design Criteria for
New City Buildings and Public School Projects, located in Appendix A.

7. All materials used shall be adequately protected against corrosion.

8. Refer to Section 1010 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations for

additional design criteria guidelines.

5.2.3 Inspections and Testing

1. Refer to Section 520.04 of the City of Virginia Beach Amendments to the Virginia
Department of Transportation Road and Bridge Specifications, 2007 for system material,
construction and testing requirements.

5.3 Wells

1. This section describes the following aspects of the design of wells:

a. Construction Materials
b. Design Criteria
c. Additional Design Criteria
d. Abandoned Wells

5.3.1 Construction Materials

1. Refer to sub-sections A and B of Section 840 of the Commonwealth of Virginia

Waterworks Regulations for information relating to construction materials and
requirements for public wells.
2. Refer to Section 400 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Private Well Regulations for
information relating to construction materials and requirements for private wells.

5.3.2 Design Criteria

1. Refer to Section 840 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations for

information relating to public well design requirements.

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2. Refer to Section 410 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Private Well Regulations for
information relating to private well design requirements.

5.3.3 Additional Design Requirements

1. Refer to any pertinent sub-sections of Chapter 630 Private Well Regulations of the
Virginia Administrative Code for additional private well design requirements if necessary.

5.3.4 Abandoned Wells

1. Refer to sub-section B of Section 840 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks

Regulations for information relating to the abandonment of public wells.

2. Refer to Section 450 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Private Well Regulations for
information relating to the abandonment of private wells.

5.4 Water Storage Facilities

1. This section describes the following aspects of the design of water storage facilities:

a. Construction Materials
b. Storage Capacity
c. Design Standards
d. Coatings

5.4.1 Construction Materials

1. Water storage tanks shall be of welded steel construction. The materials and designs
used for finished water storage structures shall provide stability and durability as well as
protect the quality of the stored water.

5.4.2 Storage Capacity

1. The type and size of a distribution storage facility shall be as determined by the required
hydraulic system modeling.

2. Types of storage facilities shall conform to the latest Standards of the AWWA and
approved by the DPU.

5.4.3 Design Criteria

1. The design of water storage facilities shall conform to the ANSI/AWWA D 100-11
(revision of ANSI/AWWA D 100-05), AWWA Standard for Welded Carbon Steel Tanks
for Water Storage.
2. Design shall incorporate Administrative Directive 3.17 – Wind Speed Design Criteria for
New City Buildings and Public School Projects, located in Appendix A.

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5.4.4 Coatings

1. Refer to Section 810 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations for

restrictions regarding coatings.

2. Refer to the City’s Approved Products List for additional information.

5.4.5 Chlorination System Requirements

1. Refer to Section 1000 of the Commonwealth of Virginia Waterworks Regulations for

general disinfection and chlorination requirements.

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Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes

Public Input for Public Utilities Projects – PU AP/DO 1000

Developer Credit Review Board – PU/ENG 1101

Public Input for Public Infrastructure Projects Undertaken in the City – AD

3.14

Wind Speed Criteria for New City Buildings and Public School Projects – AD
3.17

Capacity Assurance Program Conditional Flow Acceptance Policy – PU

AP/ENG 1114

Transfer of City Utility & Power Accounts for Developer Constructed Pump
Stations – PU AP/ENG 1104

Force Main Connection to Gravity Sanitary Sewer PU SOP/ENG 1180

Sizing Water Meters and Service Lines – PU SOP/ENG 1182

Irrigation Meters – PU SOP/BD 5080

Record Drawing Process – PU SOP/ENG 1177

Procedures for Authorization of Fire Hydrant Rentals – PU SOP/BD 5079

City of Virginia Beach Flow Acceptance Process

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix A – DPU Administrative Directives, Policies & Codes
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix B
July 2014

Appendix B – Standard Legend for Record Drawings

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

B
 Appendix B
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

 Appendix B – Standard Legend for Record Drawings
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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 Appendix B – Standard Legend for Record Drawings
July 2014

City of Virginia Beach – DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

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