Drinking Water Fee Update

Today’s release of the Governor’s Budget highlights a 50% reduction in the proposed drinking water fee for Utah Public Water Systems.

Through budget cuts and reserve funding, the Division of Drinking Water has been able to reduce the proposed fee by half and delay the first fee collection until fiscal year 2028.

The public comment period gave crucial feedback in reexamining the best path forward. While a fee remains necessary to sustain the staff and programs required to maintain federal compliance and ensure safe, reliable drinking water, we revised our proposal in direct response to stakeholder input. We are thankful for the numerous people who attended the public meetings and for the nearly 100 comments submitted. They were carefully reviewed and instrumental in making these proposed changes.

We recognize that new costs can place a real burden on water systems and understand the need for additional time to plan for these changes. This fee is intended to reduce the state’s reliance on declining federal funding, diversify revenue sources, strengthen long-term resilience, ensure ongoing compliance with federal law, and maintain the level of service expected by Utah’s communities.

Please see the Division of Drinking Water’s Website for additional information (i.e., submitted comments and responses).