Water Service System Violations
Chapter 3.36 of the Marina Coast Water District (MCWD) Codes and Ordinances Title 3 provides for administrative penalties for water theft, hydrant meter damage, and other observations. A copy of the Code is avalable at https://www.mcwd.org/governance_codes.html, or by calling MCWD Customer Services at (831) 384-6131 or (831) 883-5900.
Public Disclosure Requirements
Under the California Public Records Act (Government Code Section 6254.16(d) ), MCWD is legally required to release a customer's name, home address, and water use data if they are found in violation of MCWD's ordinances and if that information is requested through a Public Records Act request..
If such a request for information about violations of its water theft is received, MCWD will comply and the information may be publicized by the media . The District understands and respects customer concerns about privacy and will only release information required by law. MCWD does not voluntarily share customer information with third parties.
Ordinance Enforcement
Violating MCWD's water theft ordinance is a misdemeanor under California Water Code S ection 377 . If the violation is not corrected by the deadline stated in the notice, MCWD may pursue one or more of the following actions:
- Issuance of additional written notices
- Refusal to initiate water service
- Termination of existing water service
- Abatement of the violation as a public nuisance
- Imposition of a use fee equal to four times the regular water rate for each unit (hcf) of estimated wasted water
Appeal a Water Theft Penalty
To appeal a water service violation , please complete and submit the appeal form (below) by mail. Appeals must follow these guidelines:
- Include photos or other evidence supporting your appeal.
- Must be signed and dated by the appellant/account holder.
- Incomplete or unreadable appeals will be denied.
- Appeals must be post-marked within 15 calendar days of the Notice of Violation date.
- You will receive a response from the District within 30 days of the District's receipt of your appeal.
- Appeals must be sent by mail. Emails or faxes are not accepted.
You will receive a response from the District within 30 days of the District's receipt of your appeal.
Download and Complete the
Water Service System Violation Notice Appeal Form PDF
Mail appeal to:
MCWD Water Theft Penalty Ordinance Appeals
c/o MCWD Customer Services Division
920 2nd Avenue, Suite B, Marina, CA 93933