What you need to know about curb boxes before shovels hit the ground

What is a curb box? Does it impact my planned landscaping? Can the curb box on my property be moved? These are questions you may be asking if you are planning to do a renovation project on your front yard or driveway – and we have the answers!

Here’s everything you need to know about curb boxes before you begin any outdoor projects this season:

A curb box is a round metal plate, approximately 10 centimetres in diameter, and is located on your front lawn, driveway or sidewalk. It’s owned and operated by the City of Vaughan and controls the water running to a home or building from the City’s watermain – in addition to the water shut-off valve, which is resident-owned and typically located in the basement.   

Get a free curb box inspection before shovels hit the ground

The curb box on or adjacent to your property must be accessible at all times. If you are paving, resurfacing, excavating or landscaping your driveway or front lawn, never tamper with or cover a curb box. 

Before you start any work, arrange a free curb box inspection from the City a minimum of two weeks in advance. Getting an inspection helps ensure the curb box remains operational and undamaged, and potentially avoids additional costs associated with repairs. Submit a request online through Service Vaughan or contact the City by phone at 905-832-2281 or email at service@vaughan.ca. 

Need to request a water shut-off?

You can request to temporarily turn your water supply on or off to complete repairs or renovate your home or building. Submit a non-emergency request online four to six weeks before the shut-off or turn-on is required. 

Repairs to curb boxes

If a curb box on your property requires repair, please submit a request online through Service Vaughan. There is no cost to you for the repair work.

Keep in mind, private contractors are prohibited from operating curb boxes under the Water By-law 106-2022 (PDF). If a curb box is damaged due to outside contractors, the City will repair it and back-charge the property owner. 

The City does not relocate curb boxes. If a curb box must be moved due to a renovation or rebuild, a new water service connection is needed. An application can be made online for a residential service connection request. 

To learn more about curb boxes, watch this video or visit the City’s water shut off and turn on webpage.

For more information on the City's water services, visit vaughan.ca/water. 

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