What is a keybox?

A keybox is the appurtenance used to access the curb stop valve controlling the flow of water from the utility’s service connection to your property’s service extension. The utility uses the keybox to turn your water service on or off.

What keyboxes look like in Alaska:

In Alaska, keyboxes typically appear as:

• A steel mushroom protruding from the ground (in unpaved areas like lawns)
• A round steel cap marked “WATER” called a paving sleeve (in paved areas like driveways or streets)

Often, the mushroom-style keybox will be found underneath the paving sleeve cap when it’s in a paved area.

Example of a keybox protruding from the ground

Example of a paving sleeve - lift this cap to access the keybox underneath

Location: Keyboxes are typically located near your property line or driveway, usually at the boundary of a utility easement.

Your responsibility: It’s your responsibility to know the location of your keybox and thaw wire. You will be liable for any costs to the utility incurred in locating or repairing the keybox or thaw wire if damage is caused by your negligence or failure to inform persons who might damage it (such as landscapers, contractors, or snow removal services). For more information, see Do I need to maintain the keybox on my property?

Tariff Reference: Section W-002 (Definitions - KEYBOX), Section W-022-K