Will there be an increase in my user charge rates?
There will be an increase User Charge Rate for 2005-06. The Board of Directors of the Stamford Water Pollution Control Authority will vote in August on this rate. Please check this site for an update in September.

What does the sewer user charge cover?
The sewer user change pays for the cost of operating and maintaining the wastewater treatment facility and collection system. The cost was previously included in your tax bill. The change was mandated by the State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection.

Is Stamford the only town required to have a user charge system?
No. Almost every town and city in Connecticut has a user charge system.

What is the basis for this charge?
The sewer user charge is based on your water usage for a six month period (two water bill quarters) between September and April. The water company provides the Water Pollution Control Authority with actual water usage for all properties in Stamford. The charge is based on winter usage to avoid charging for heavier summer uses such as watering your lawn and garden, washing your car, or filling your pool, which do not impact the treatment system.

What if I have a well?
The sewer use charge for well customers is based on the average Stamford residential water usage. Well customers can install a water meter at their own expense if they wish to be billed for their actual usage.

Is anyone exempt from this charge?
No. All users of the sanitary sewer system, including all governmental and nonprofit organizations are charged at the same rate. Under the user charge system, everyone who discharges wastewater to the sanitary sewer system pays their share of treating that wastewater regardless of their tax status.

How can I save water and reduce my sewer user charge?

• Repair dripping faucets.
• Repair leaking toilets - leaks can be detected by using dye tablets.
• Do not let the water run while brushing your teeth or washing dishes.
• Take showers instead of baths.
• Wash only full loads of clothes or dishes.

Can I deduct the sewer user charge from my income tax?
No. Since this is a utility bill and not a tax, it is not deductible.

What should I do if I feel the water usage shown on my bill is wrong?
If you feel your water usage is wrong, call our WPCA Info line, (203)977-4819, for assistance.

Where do I pay my sewer user charge?
A special post office box is set up to receive sewer user charge payments:

Call our WPCA Info Line at (203)977-5832 if:

• Your name, address or other information is incorrect.
• You received a sewer user charge bill for property you no longer own. Please give the new owner's name if you know it.
• You received a sewer user charge bill but you have a septic system and no ability to connect to the sanitary sewer system.
• You feel the water usage shown on your bill is incorrect.
• You have any other questions.

General questions: RBull@ci.stamford.ct.us.

WPCA Info Line: (203)977-4819 or (203)977-5832

Mail Sewer Use Payments to:
Stamford Water Pollution Control Authority
P.O. Box 1200
Hartford, CT 06143-1200