On Jan. 11, 2022, new water, recycled water and wastewater rates were approved for customers of the Carlsbad Municipal Water District, based on an updated report on what it costs to provide those services. Even though rates will be going up, they're still among the lowest in the region.

Watch the Jan. 11 public hearing on rate increases and view the presentation.

View the notice on the rate increases.

How rates are determined

The rates you pay for water, recycled water and wastewater cannot be higher than the actual cost to provide this service. The City of Carlsbad and Carlsbad Municipal Water District conduct regular “Cost of Service” studies to determine this cost. Some of the things that affect the cost (and your rates) include:

• Increasing cost of buying imported water from the San Diego County Water Authority
• Major investments needed to to maintain aging pipes, pumps, treatment facilities and other infrastructure
• The cost of some supplies and materials have doubled in recent years.

Average household bill

The total average monthly single family water and wastewater bill will increase $24.78 over three years.

Commercial bills vary depending on business type. For help estimating rates for businesses, call 442-339-2420.

View the public notice brochure for more information on how your rates will change and when.

Understanding rate increases

Click on the images below for information on how to understand how much your water or wastewater bill will change.

Webinar for businesses

Businesses were invited to attend a virtual informational session held via Zoom on Dec. 14, 2021, to learn more about water and wastewater rate increases.  Watch the webinar recording.

Cost of service studies

2021 potable and recycled water cost of service study
2021 wastewater cost of service study

More information

Rates Q&A
For more information about the protest process or utility operations, call 442-339-2420.