The Halifax Regional Water Commission has constructed seven automated bulk fill stations in the urban core of HRM and one in Middle Musquodoboit (view locations) to allow bulk water haulers to obtain potable water from the distribution system year round, 24 hours per day.  These bulk fill stations were constructed as an alternative to the withdrawal of water from designated fire hydrants.  Bulk fill stations minimize the potential for contamination of the public water supply through a hydrant, reduce discoloured water events associated with hydrant usage, and ensure that all water delivered through the system is metered wherever possible. The withdrawal of water through hydrants is considered illegal.  The only vehicles accessing fire hydrants will be HRM Fire Department or HRWC staff as they perform maintenance activities.

Bulk fill stations are accessed using smart cards which are pre-loaded with specific dollar amounts. These cards allow bulk water haulers to dispense water and will update the card balance based on water dispensed (view bulk fill station rates).  Smart cards can be used at any bulk fill station.  The initial set up of the smart card must be done at the Cowie Hill office.  Additional money may be added to the card at one of the following three HRWC offices; please make cheques payable to "Halifax Regional Water Commission", debit is available only at the Cowie Hill Road office.   

• 450 Cowie Hill Road, Halifax
• 35 Neptune Crescent, Dartmouth
• 2 Park Avenue, Lower Sackville

The maximum value on any one card is limited to $2,000.00.  If you have questions about your smart card or to report lost/stolen cards, please contact Amanda Penney at 490-4294 or Lorna Skinner at 490-6208.

An annual permit fee will be charged for each and every vehicle equipped for access to the bulk fill stations.  Permit fees, effective April 1 to March 31, are $225 for the first vehicle and $150 for each vehicle thereafter.  Vehicles used for transport of water must be inspected and approved by the HRWC on an annual basis as part of the permit process (permit fees include the vehicle inspection).  Vehicles must be brought to one of the HRWC’s offices for inspection.  Inspections must be arranged with the Operations Superintendent at least 24 hours in advance.  To arrange for an appointment, please contact:

West Region 455 Cowie Hill Rd, Halifax

Barry McMullin, Operations Superintendent - 490-6102

East Region 35 Neptune Cres, Dartmouth

Dave Hiscock, Operations Superintendent – 490-4975

Central Region 2 Park Ave, Bedford/Sackville

Tim Burbine, Operations Superintendent – 869-4341

Operational issues can be directed to each of the area Operations offices; West Region (Halifax) 490-6940, East Region (Dartmouth) 490-4965, and Central Region (Bedford/Sackville) 869-4290.   For 24-hour emergency service, contact 490-6940.