The required size of a water main is based upon the amount of water needed for normal consumption and:

The required size of a water main must accommodate not only the normal consumption needs of a community but also fire protection needs. This is crucial because in the event of a fire, a substantial and immediate volume of water is necessary to ensure effective firefighting operations. Fire protection requirements typically dictate a higher flow rate and volume than regular domestic consumption needs, especially in areas prone to larger fires or where high-density structures are present.

The sizing of the water main takes into account factors such as the potential fire flow demands based on building types, occupancy classifications, and local fire codes. This ensures that in an emergency situation, the fire department has sufficient water pressure and volume available to respond effectively.

While industrial, storage, and business needs may also influence water system design, they generally do not hold the same precedence as fire protection requirements, which are critical to safeguarding life and property during fire incidents. Therefore, understanding the significance of fire protection needs in water main sizing is essential for effective community safety planning and emergency response readiness.