Rate Changes
Sewer Service Rate Information
On June 27, 2017, CVWD's Board of Directors adopted a new sewer rate structure, which simplifies how the rates are calculated and to simplify the rates to reflect current customer demand, their water use and the amount of water sent into the sewer system by individual customers.
Upon request, CVWD may grant a temporary variance to customers with a single meter serving both indoor and outdoor needs in order to provide customers time to install a second meter to separate the water uses. The temporary variance will reduce the “return to sewer” percentage from 90% to 55%. If granted, the variance will be in effect until the new meter is installed or through July 1, 2018, whichever occurs first.
To submit a request for a variance, click here:
Request for Variance Temporary Single Meter
Request for Variance - Calculation of Wastewater Discharge
These rate changes are effective January 1, 2018.
Residential customers
Those who live in La Quinta, Thousand Palms and the Salton Sea will see a decrease on their sewer bills. While homeowners who live in Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells will see a small increase of about $1.44 per year.
Businesses
Approximately, 40 percent of businesses and other non-residential customers will receive a decrease, while 60 percent will see an increase ranging from minimal to significant. Customers who place the highest demand on the sewer system will receive the most significant increases. For those who see increases, it will be the first time since 2010.
CVWD staff members are available to answer questions about the new rate restructure and how it could affect your business. Please call Assistant Director of Engineering Carrie Oliphant at (760) 398-2661 ext. 2268 for more information or to schedule a meeting.

- Read a copy of the Proposition 218 Notice that was mailed to all sewer service customers.
- Residential Sewer Rate Fact Sheet
(Fact Sheet in Spanish) - Business/Non-Residential Sewer Rate Fact Sheet (PDF)
(Fact Sheet in Spanish) - Sewer Service Rate Study Report
CVWD customers can submit their comments and questions about rate changes by using this online form.

- Read a copy of the Proposition 218 Notice that was mailed to all sewer service customers.
- Residential Sewer Rate Fact Sheet
(Fact Sheet in Spanish) - Business/Non-Residential Sewer Rate Fact Sheet (PDF)
(Fact Sheet in Spanish) - Sewer Service Rate Study Report
Questions? Send us an email.
CVWD customers can submit their comments and questions about rate changes by using this online form.
Domestic (Drinking Water) Rate Information
No rate increase for 2017-18 fiscal year
On June 13, 2017, CVWD's Board of Directors recently voted to keep domestic water rates stable without increases for the 2017-18 fiscal year, thanks to reduced spending on chromium-6 treatment and healthy reserves. Current Domestic Water Rates
- Current Domestic Water Rates (PDF)
- 2016 Domestic Water Rate Study Report (PDF)
- Watch a video on How to read your water bill
Canal Water
On June 13, 2017, CVWD's Board of Directors approved an increase to Canal water rates, effective July 1, 2017. The water rate for class 1 and class 2 users was increased from $33.48 per acre-foot to $34.32; the water supply charge for class 2 users was increased from $32.51 to $67.80.
Canal Rate Report Legal notice regarding canal water rate increase Canal Water Rates
Replenishment Assessment Charges
On June 13, 2017, CVWD's Board of Directors approved an increase to the Replenishment Assessment Charge (RAC) for private groundwater pumpers in the West and Mission Creek subbassins, effective July 1, 2017. The RAC is used to fund the district’s groundwater replenishment program.
The West Whitewater River Subbasin RAC was increased from $128.80 per acre-foot to $143.80; the Mission Creek Subbasin RAC was increased from $123.20 per acre-foot to $135.52; the RAC for the East subbasin will remain at $66 per acre-foot.
RAC Rate Report RAC Rates Legal notices regarding RAC rate increases- Notice of public hearing: Proposed Changes To RAC (PDF)
- East Valley RAC Proposition 218 Notice (PDF)
- East Valley RAC Proposition 218 Notice - (Spanish) (PDF)
- West Whitewater River and Mission Creek RAC Proposition 218 mailer (PDF)
- West Whitewater River and Mission Creek RAC Proposition 218 mailer (Spanish) (PDF)