Shutting Off Your Water

If a water pipe broke in your home, are you able to find the shut off valve? Knowing where it's located is important before you have an emergency. There should be a valve near your house.

Look for your shut off valve in the following places:
  • In the crawl space or basement, where your water line enters the home.
  • In the garage where your water line enters the wall or ceiling, possibly near a water heater or laundry hookup.
  • Outside near the foundation, often protected by a concrete ring or clay pipe.
Your Water Meter

Your water meter is located in a concrete or plastic box in the ground, generally in front of your house and near the property line. It's important to keep the meter box free of plants and roots that can obstruct or hide the meter or damage the service line.

Can't Find Your Shut Off Valve?

You may want to have a shut off valve installed if you can't locate one. If you have an emergency and need help shutting off your water at the meter or locating your water meter, please call TVWD at (503) 848-3000.

Click any thumbnail image to view a slideshow

Water Shutoff Example - gate valve on a horizontal pipe coming out from a wall in a garage
Water Shutoff Example - ball valve on a horizontal pipe coming out from a wall in a garage
Water Shutoff Example - gate valve on a vertical pipe coming out from a wall in a garage
Water Shutoff Example - gate valve on a vertical pipe coming out from a wall in a garage next to a water meter
Water Shutoff Example - Outside of house clay ring pipe with valve inside of it