Water and Pollution Control Department

Water Rates and Billing

WATER & YARD WATER RATE

As part of the city's efforts to promote conservation and to help keep costs down for all customers, a reevaluation of the water rate structure took place in 2008. The intent of the new structure is to have the rates reflect the fact that seasonal peak water use is driving the utility towards a major capacity expansion project. Information about the new rate structure is available by clicking here.

Water bills are composed of a minimum bill, based on the size of the meter (typical residential meters are 5/8"), and a consumption charge. The consumption rate is $1.39 per one-hundred (100) cubic feet, or more than 5 gallons for $0.01. Compare this to the cost of bottled water, and you will find that Ames tap water is an incredible bargain!

Meter Size	Minimum Bill
	Water Meter	Yard Meter
5/8" or 5/8" x 3/4"	$7.30	$2.75
3/4"	$14.60	$4.25
1"	$29.20	$6.00
1-1/2"	$58.40	$8.25
2"	$116.80	$11.00
2", battery of 2	$226.30	N/A
2", battery of 3	$335.80	N/A
3"	$233.60	$14.25
4"	$394.20	$17.75
6"	$657.00	$21.25
8"	$1,314.00	$24.75
10"	$1,971.00	$28.25

MULTIPLE UNIT SURCHARGES

5/8" meter, 2 or more units	$2.10/month/unit
3/4" meter, 4 or more units	$2.10/month/unit
1" meter, 8 or more units	$2.10/month/unit
1-1/2" meter, 16 or more units	$2.10/month/unit
2" meter, 30 or more units	$63.00 for the first 30 units, plus $3.30/month/unit for units over 30
3" meter, any number of units	$2.90/month/unit

Note: In addition to the rates listed above, sewer service and storm water charges are also added to a water bill.

Other charges relating to the use of the city's water supply system include a charge of $100.00 per occurrence for unauthorized use of water and a $4.50 per day for un-metered use of water.

Bulk water is available at the Water Plant at the rate of $0.50/100 gallons.

Meter reading and billing are handled by the City of Ames Finance Department. Any inquiries about billing, starting or stopping service, or similar questions should be directed to the Customer Service Division of the Finance Department.