Rates Information
Seattle Public Utilities adjusted 2013 drinking water rates, approved by the City Council in November 2011, to pay for investments in the water supply system. Seattle water still costs less than a penny per gallon even with the rate increase. 2013 sewer, drainage and solid waste rates were approved by the City Council in November 2011. All 2013 rates became effective January 1, 2013, except for solid waste, which became effective April 1, 2013.
Rate Change Summary Table
2011-2013 Typical residential bill per month
| 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water (1) | $31.70 | $33.95 | $36.38 |
| Sewer (2) | $44.20 | $45.92 | $50.10 |
| Drainage (3) | $19.58 | $21.81 | $24.10 |
| Solid Waste (4) | $34.75 | $37.00 | $39.30 |
| Total | $130.23 | $138.68 | $149.88 |
(1) Typical residential bills assume monthly water usage of 5.5 ccf (hundred cubic feet) for peak period water usage and 4.7 ccf for offpeak period water usage.
(2) Typical residential bills assume monthly sewer usage of 4.3 ccf.
(3) Drainage fees are billed for SPU as a separate line item on King County’s annual property tax statements. The typical bill is a median bill.
(4) Typical residential garbage service is a 32 gallon garbage container and yard waste service.