What is a curb stop?

A curb stop is the valve that controls whether water flows from the utility’s system to your property. The utility uses this valve to turn your water service on or off when needed.

Key points about curb stops:

• Located inside the keybox at or near your property line
• Only utility personnel are authorized to operate the curb stop
• The utility accesses it through the keybox when they need to disconnect or restore your service
• If you turn your own water on or off without authorization, you’ll be charged an unauthorized turn-on/turn-off fee of $200

When the utility “discontinues” service, they turn off the curb stop valve at the keybox. When they “disconnect” service, they physically disconnect the service connection, usually at the main water line. Discontinuance is temporary and easier to restore; disconnection is more serious and costly.

Tariff Reference: Section W-002 (Definitions - CURB STOP), Section W-027.10