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Rates
Third Tier Water Rates
Peak residential water rates are in effect from May 16 through September 15 each year. Peak rates incorporate a three-tiered rate structure with progressively higher rates as water consumption increases. Third-tier water rates are included in this rate structure.
Residential Water Rates
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Water Usage
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Inside City Limits
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Outside City Limits
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City of Shoreline
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Off-Peak Usage (Sept. 16 – May 15)
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$2.62
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$2.99
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$3.18
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Peak Usage (May 16 – Sept. 15)
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First-Tier: Up to 10 CCF in 60 days
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$2.88
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$3.28
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$3.49
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Second-Tier: Next 26 CCF in 60 days
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$3.35
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$3.82
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$4.06
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Third-Tier: Over 36 CCF in 60 days
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$8.55
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$9.75
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$10.37
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Note: One ccf equals 100 cubic feet or 748 gallons of water.
Eligible low income customers can receive a 50% credit on their bill. For more information please see the Low Income Assistance Program related link listed below.
Historically, roughly one out of ten residential customers have some consumption at the third-tier level. Third-tier water rates affect single-family residential (SFR) and duplex customers who use more than 36 CCF for a 60-day billing period (or more than 18 CCF for a 30-day billing period). (The thresholds for a duplex are double the SFR level.)
Higher summer rates
Although Seattle generally has plenty of water in the wintertime, we have less precipitation during the summer when demand is highest. During the summer, we depend on water stored in our mountain reservoirs to meet customer demand while leaving enough water in the rivers for fish. Higher summer water rates encourage customers to use water wisely.
Water conservation
From May through September, water use in our region increases 35 to 45 percent, primarily to irrigate lawns and gardens. Experts estimate that 30 percent or more of this water goes to waste, due to evaporation, runoff, or simply over-watering. For suggestions about smart watering practices, check out the Natural Lawn & Garden guides (see link below). You may also contact the expert staff at the Natural Lawn & Garden Hotline at (206) 633-0224.
History of third-tier rates
A two-tiered residential summer rate was first introduced in 1989. A third-tier was developed during the 1992 drought along with rate surcharges and mandatory restrictions on water use. However, these temporary measures were rescinded as soon as the drought was over. Residential customers were reintroduced to third-tier water rates during the 2001 drought to discourage discretionary summertime water use. The third-tier rate was continued for 2002, but the Mayor and City Council reduced the rate and increased the ccf threshold effective July 16, 2002. Seasonal third-tier rates have not changed since then.
Related links
Third Tier Water Rate Appeal Process
Payment Assistance
Reduce Water Use
Natural Lawn and Garden Care
Links to other sites
Saving Water Partnership
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