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1. How frequently should I get a water bill?

Beginning in January, 2012 residential water bills are now billed monthly. Payment for water bills are accepted through the Treasurer's Office. The Treasurer's office is now accepting online payments.

2. What are the current water rates?

The current water rate is $4.20 per 100 cubic feet/748 gallons. The rate for the minimum is based on the meter size is as follows:

• 5/8", 3/4:, 1"  meter- $7.09
• 1.5" meter- $22.31
• 2" meter- $33.45
• 3" meter- $63.70
• 4" meter- $97.67
• 6" meter- $192.67
• 8" meter- $306.24

3. My water bill includes sewer billing, who do i speak with about an abatement?

The bills include both water and sewer charges. Some accounts only have water and will only be billed for water usage. The sewer charges on your water/sewer bill are based on your water usage. No bills are estimated. Every meter in the city is read either by the radio read technology or by a meter reader. 

The sewer charges are read through your water usage and the billing is included in your water bill. To apply for a sewer abatement you must contact the Wastewater Division. A written request for an abatement is required and must include a detailed description of the incident or occurrence requiring abatement.

4. Why is my water Discolored (brown)?

Discolored water conditions may be caused be the use of fire hydrants, breakage in pipes, opening and closing of gate valves, deficiencies in pressure, volume, supply of water, or any other situation that may result in a discoloration of the water.

If the discolored water is caused by a leak, a leak at any point past the property line at the public right of way is the responsibility of the homeowner. The Water Division will come out to the property to shut off the water for necessary repairs. Applicable fees (PDF) will apply to the service call. 

5. What should I know about filling a swimming pool?

When you fill your swimming pool you must pay for the water used to fill the pool. You should then contact the Wastewater Department to inquire about abatement for the sewer charges associated with filling your pool. 

Visit our page on filling a swimming pool to see a formula to calculate what your it may cost to fill your pool with water.

6. I'm selling my property, what should I know about transferring the water/sewer service?

When you sell your property a final water meter reading MUST be taken by the City of Fitchburg Water Office. We will need at least a 48 hour notice to accommodate all closing requests and to prepare the final figures. Visit Property Transfers to see any required forms and to see the formula used to calculate your final bill.