The Philadelphia Water, Sewer, and Storm Water Rate Board considers testimony and evidence from city officials and members of the public to arrive at fair and reasonable rates to provide adequate funding for the operation of the Philadelphia Water Department. The records of each rate case include the initial filing from the Philadelphia Water Department, transcripts of hearings, public comment, testimony and evidence presented or submitted to the Board, and the Board’s determination.
2021 Rate Adjustment
On March 15, 2021, the Philadelphia Water Department filed an Advance Notice to implement the annual adjustment to the Tiered Assistance Program Rate Rider (TAP-R) and to revise related water, sewer, and fire service connection quantity charges.
2021 Rate Proceeding
On February 16, 2021, the Philadelphia Water Department (“Department”) filed an advanced notice with City Council and the Philadelphia Water, Sewer, and Storm Water Rate Board (Rate Board) of the Department’s intent to propose an increase in water, sewer, and stormwater rates effective September 1, 2021.
2020 Rate Adjustment
On May 20, 2020, the Philadelphia Water Department filed an Advance Notice to implement the annual adjustment to the Tiered Assistance Program Rate Rider (TAP-R) and to revise related water, sewer, and fire service connection quantity charges.
2020 Rate Proceeding
On February 11, 2020, the Philadelphia Water Department filed its Advance Notice of proposed changes in water, sewer, and storm water rates and related charges with City Council and the Rate Board.
2019 Rate Adjustment
On April 4, 2019, the Philadelphia Water Department filed an Advance Notice to implement the annual adjustment to the Tiered Assistance Program Rate Rider (TAP-R) and to revise related water, sewer, and fire service connection quantity charges.
2018 Rate Proceeding
On March 14, 2018, the Philadelphia Water Department filed its Formal Notice of proposed changes in water, sewer, and storm water rates and related charges with City Council and the Board. (Advance Notice was filed February 12, 2018.)
View the Rate Determination of Water Department Rates and Charges for FY 2019-2020 →
2016 Special Rates Filing
On June 28, 2016, Mayor James F. Kenney signed an ordinance passed by Philadelphia City Council that allows community gardens a special discounted rate for storm water management services. The Philadelphia Water Department filed formal notice of the proposed change in storm water rates for community gardens on October 12, 2016 and a special rate case was conducted. Based on information supplied by the Water Department and testimony from organizations and citizens, the Board approved a 100 percent special discount for community gardens effective January 1, 2017.
View the Report of the Board on the 2016 Special Rate Filing →
2016 Rate Proceeding
The 2016 Rate Case determined water, sewer, and storm water rates for the 2017 and 2018 fiscal years. Formal notice was given February 8, 2016, and the Rate Determination was released on June 8, 2016.
View the press release outlining the Board’s decision →
View the Determination of Water Department Rates and Charges for FY17-18 →