Water and Wastewater Utility Rates
The City of Benicia is proud to own and operate its own water treatment plant, water distribution system, wastewater collection system, and wastewater treatment plant. This is unique, especially for a small city like Benicia. The City bills for water and wastewater utility services on a bi-monthly basis (approximately every 60 days). Periodic increases are needed for repairing/replacing aging infrastructure, ensuring regulatory compliance obligations, and ongoing operations.
The City's current rate schedule can be found here:
For comparison, here's how our rates compare to our neighbor's rates:
2021 Water and Wastewater Rate Comparison
Water/Wastewater Operations Budgets
Here's how ratepayer fees are used in the operation:
Meter Replacement Fee
The rate schedules above do not include the $12-$14 bimonthly “meter replacement” fee. This fee was added to the utility bills in November 2016 to repay the bond issued for the 2017 smart meter project. The cost is $6 per month for meters less than 1-inch, or $7 per month for 1-inch meters and larger. To find out how to take full advantage of your smart meter, click here.
Accountability and Transparency
We are committed to open and transparent government. Here are some recent audits and reports conducted on the water and wastewater utility.
April 2020 Water/Wastewater Utility Update
June 2020 Executive Summary Condition Assessment Water
June 2020 Executive Summary Condition Assessment Wastewater
Financial Hardship Assistance
A low-income discount is available for customers who qualify for PG&E's CARE discount program. Contact the Finance Department at 707-746-4225 to request more information on how the City may be able to help customers pay for water and wastewater bills.
Rebates
Learn about available rebates at www.SolanoSavesWater.org.
| Benicia’s WaterInsight/WaterSmart Program can help you use less and avoid costly leaks. Check it out at Benicia WaterInsight |  |