Village of Cambridge NY Logo

Village of Cambridge, NY

Adopt-A-Hydrant: Keep 3 Feet Clear

Seconds count in a fire. Adopt the hydrant on your block and keep a 3‑foot circle clear after snowfalls so firefighters can connect fast. Can’t shovel safely? Tell us and DPW will add it to the list.

SIGN UP NOW

Voluntary program • Do not shovel into the street • Stay clear of active plows

Check-in After A Storm

illustration of fire hydrant with a yellow circle around the hydrant with the words "3 FEET CLEAR"
  • Clear a 3‑foot circle around the hydrant.
  • Keep a short path to the curb visible.
  • Use hand tools; avoid active plows; wear reflective gear.
Clearance
3‑ft circle + path to curb
Season
Winter 2025-26
Coverage Goal
80% of hydrants adopted
Safety First
Follow these tips whenever you clear a hydrant. If it’s unsafe, report it instead.
  • Pause during active plowing; stay out of the roadway.
  • Clear a 3‑foot circle and a short path to the curb.
  • Use shovels/ice choppers only; no power equipment near hydrants.
  • Wear reflective/bright clothing; work in daylight when possible.
  • Children help only with adult supervision.
Fire Code of New York State requires a 3‑foot clear space around hydrants.
Can’t safely shovel?
Tell us and we’ll add the hydrant to the DPW priority list.
*
* ****

SUBMIT FORM

Sign Up - Adopt Your Hydrant

The form takes about a minute. You’ll get a confirmation email with your hydrant details and safety tips. If multiple neighbors choose the same hydrant, we’ll pair you up or assign the next closest.

Q

How big is the clearance?

A 3‑foot circle around the hydrant and a short path to the curb so caps/valves are accessible.

Q

What if the hydrant is buried or damaged?

Report it using the contact section below; DPW and CFD will handle it.

Q
I can’t safely shovel. Can I still help?

Yes. Tell us and we’ll add the hydrant to DPW’s list. You can also help by spreading the word.

Q
Will my info be public?

No. We use your contact info only for this program and storm updates.

Clerk’s Office
518-677-2622 • adoptahydrant@cambridgeny.gov
DPW
Supt. Matt Toleman • mtoleman@cambridgeny.gov
Mayor’s Office

mayor@cambridgeny.gov