What is a construction or floating meter?

A construction, or floating meter, is similar to the standard water meter used at most residences and places of business to measure the water used.  However, unlike a standard meter, a floating meter is not attached or fixed to a specific site-it is portable (hence the term "floating"). 

A floating meter is typically connected to a fire hydrant or an existing water service that does not have a meter installed.  A floating meter is typically used when water is needed for a temporary project (such as a construction job) but is not otherwise available.  The floating meter measures the amount of water used by the customer who requested it; the customer is then billed for water used when he or she is finished. 

Who needs or uses a floating meter?

Floating meters are normally used by industrial entities, developers, landscape and irrigation companies, construction job sites and even film crews.  As noted above, it is used where water is needed for a temporary commercial purpose but is not otherwise available. 

How to Obtain a Floating Meter

In order to receive a floating meter and water service from the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department, you must first submit the following documents and information to the WASD New Business Office at either the LeJeune building, 3575 S. LeJeune Road (south of US-1) or the Miami-Dade Permitting and Inspection Center (MDPIC) at 11805 SW 26 Street in west Miami-Dade: 

• Requestor's information
  • Name
  • Mailing Address
  • Social Security number or Federal Tax Identification number
  • Daytime Phone Number
     
• Approval from the appropriate Fire Department (depending on jurisdiction) if the floating meter will be connected to a fire hydrant
   
• Miami-Dade Fire Rescue - Unincorporated Miami-Dade County, many smaller municipalities
   
• City of Miami Department of Fire-Rescue - City of Miami city limits
   
• City of Coral Gables Fire Department - City of Coral Gables city limits
  

Please note that a floating meter that is issued by WASD can only be used on mains that are within WASD's service area.

In addition to the information and documents listed above, you must submit a deposit, payable in cash and checks only in US funds.  Deposits are $2,500 for a 2" floating meter and $1,500 for a 1" floating meter.  Additional service charges may apply.  The deposit amount less actual water consumption is refunded upon return of the undamaged floating meter.

Once you have submitted the information listed above to WASD's New Business Section, they will open a new, temporary water account for you. You can then pick up the floating meter at WASD's Meter Shop, located at 1001 NW 11 Street, Miami.

When you're finished with the floating meter, please return it to the WASD Meter Shop along with any accompanying parts and supplies. You will be billed for any missing parts or supplies, as well as any water used as measured by the floating meter, and then your account will be closed. You will only be billed for water usage, not for sewer.  If you have any billing-related questions please contact WASD Customer Relations at 305-665-7477. Once your account is closed, your deposit will be returned less water consumption and fees for damaged equipment.

NOTICE:

Floating meter assemblies are very heavy and can be too large to fit in the trunk of a car.  It is recommended that the customer use a pick-up truck or similar vehicle to pick up the floating meter.