What is the minimum horizontal distance allowed between a water main and a sanitary sewer?

The minimum horizontal distance allowed between a water main and a sanitary sewer is indeed 10 feet. This distance is crucial to ensure the safety and integrity of both systems. The separation helps prevent contamination of the potable water supply by minimizing the potential for cross-connections or leaks.

When water mains and sanitary sewers are too close to each other, there is an increased risk that sewage could enter the water supply in the event of a failure or leak in the sewer line. Hence, the 10-foot requirement is a standard practice aimed at protecting public health and maintaining clean drinking water. By following these guidelines, operators can effectively safeguard against the risks associated with improper proximity of these critical infrastructure components.