Omaha, NE Water Use Rules: Leak Reporting Duty (2026)
Key Facts
- Enforcing utility
- Metropolitan Utilities District
- Major street deadline
- 24 hours after city notice
- Local street deadline
- 72 hours after city notice
- Applicable season
- November 1 to April 1
- Late shutoff cost
- MUD liable for ice-control costs
Summary
Omaha requires water main or service leaks that spill onto streets or sidewalks be shut off by the Metropolitan Utilities District within 24 to 72 hours of city notice.
From November 1 to April 1 water leaks in the public right-of-way from water mains or private services that cause water or ice to run or accumulate on the traveled or walkway portion of streets, alleys or boulevards must be shut off by the Metropolitan Utilities District until repaired... (a) On major streets within 24 hours following notice from the city. (b) On local streets within 72 hours following notice from the city. If the leak is not shut off within the specified time, the Metropolitan Utilities District shall be liable to the city for all costs...
Full Breakdown
Under Omaha Municipal Code § 34-4, from November 1 to April 1, water leaks in the public right-of-way from water mains or private services that cause water or ice to run onto the traveled or walkway portion of streets, alleys or boulevards must be shut off by the Metropolitan Utilities District (MUD) until repaired. Major streets get a 24-hour deadline after city notice; local streets get 72 hours. The city, not the property owner, is who notifies MUD once a leak is reported or discovered.
Violations & Fines
If MUD fails to shut off the leak within the 24- or 72-hour deadline, MUD becomes liable to the city for all ice removal and ice-control costs incurred after that deadline, including barricades and other traffic safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call to report a water leak in the street in Omaha?
Does this rule apply year-round?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Omaha
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