Water hauling vehicles are defined as self-propelled or towed vehicles having an attached water tank, with or without pumps, hoses and accessory equipment for filling or distribution of water. The tank must exceed 250 gallons capacity and comply with all applicable State and Federal laws and regulations. Use of convertible trucks, dump trucks or flat-bed trucks with detachable tanks is allowed if the tanks are securely attached. Vehicle without a tank or detached tanks cannot be licensed. The Water Hauler’s License must be renewed annually.

There are two water hauler designations:

• Category B haulers may haul potable water or any food product including wine, syrup, fruit concentrates and soft drink concentrates. Category B haulers cannot haul non-food products.
• Category X haulers may only haul potable water. No other materials may be hauled by Category X haulers.

How to Apply for a Water Hauler’s License

• Obtain a Water Hauler’s License application (CDPH 8605 PDF).
  
• Complete the application in type or legible print and sign the form. Make sure each section is completed fully. Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant.
• Make arrangements with a certified laboratory to conduct water quality testing on your water, as follows:
• Bacteriological analyses (total coliforms)
  
• Make sure you include a valid telephone number on the application. FDB staff may contact you at the provided number to ask questions or request additional information regarding your water hauler.
• You must list all water haulers on the Water Hauler’s License application. Each water hauler will receive a unique FDB water hauler decal.
• ​You must include the License plate number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each water hauler.
• Submit your completed application, the non-refundable license fee (check or money order), and water quality test results to CDPH (see the Water Hauler’s License application for the mailing instructions).
• If you have a valid Water Bottling Plant License issued by FDB and the water hauler and water bottling plant are based, and operating at the same location, you may request a fee exemption from the Water Hauler’s License.
• After your application is processed you will be contacted by FDB, at the telephone number provided on your application, to schedule a pre-licensing inspection.
• If your water hauler is found to be in substantial compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, your license will be issued shortly thereafter.
• The Water Hauler’s License is valid for one calendar year. It is your responsibility to renew the license prior to the expiration date printed on the license.
• Your Water Hauler’s License is non-transferable. If you transfer or sell your water hauler, the new owner will be required to apply for a new Water Hauler’s License.

​​Renewal of a Water Hauler’s License ​

• ​Once licensed, you will receive a Renewal notice and partially completed Water Hauler’s License application 60 days prior to the expiration date of your license.
  
• If you do not receive your renewal notice,  you may download a blank (CDPH 8605 PDF)application online.
• Sections 1-5 will be pre-filled on the Water Hauler’s License application. Verify the information, make any corrections, and complete the remaining sections. Make sure each section is completed fully. Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant.
• Submit copies of the required bacteriological test results for water sampled from your water hauler, as follows:
• Current bacteriological analyses (total coliforms) test results for analyses conducted by a certified laboratory within the last 30 days.
• A separate coliform test is required for each water hauler. Make sure the laboratory analytical report indicates the water hauler’s license plate number or VIN.
• If you have added or changed water hauler vehicles you must provide the license plate number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each water hauler.
• Submit your renewal application, non-refundable license fee (check or money order), and water quality test results and records to CDPH (see the Water Hauler’s License application for the mailing instructions).
• FDB will conduct periodic, unannounced inspections of your water hauler to ensure that you are operating in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations.

Tips for Completing the Water Hauler’s License Application

Additional Information