The current Water and Sewer Design and Construction Standards located in the Design Standards Manual (DSM) was last updated in July of 2013. The County has revised the DSM to reflect changes in regulatory compliance and construction practices. The County has vetted the changes to the DSM with the construction and engineering industry. Significant changes to the design standards are described below:  

• The County is now utilizing the DIPRA Design Decision Model to standardize the corrosion control program. To improve corrosion resistance and extend the life of the distribution system, ductile iron pipe must be zinc coated and wrapped with a V-Bio Enhanced Polyethylene Encasement.

• The County is expanding the required use of tracer wire. Tracer wire increases the ability to locate existing utilities and helps prevent damage to infrastructure that may result in service interruptions.

Ben Loveday, Director Utilities/Public Works

Chris Edwards, Division Director Utility Operations

Updates to the Design Standards Manual were required by the Virginia Department of Health to renew Spotsylvania County’s General Construction Permit. This permit allows the County to review and approve waterlines 16” in diameter or less.

Not adopting the updated the Design Standards Manual could result in failure to comply with regulatory requirements.