FAQs • Watsonville • CivicEngage

Why is my current water bill so much higher than my last?: A malfunctioning or leaking toilet is the most common problem, and it may be responsible for the sudden increase in your water bill. If you hear the sound of water running when your toilet is not in use, it can be wasting 100-500 gallons of water per day.

To learn how to detect or repair toilet leaks or find other useful water conservation information,
visit the Water Conservation page.

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Public Works

1. How much does the Green Business Program cost?: Enrollment in the Green Business Program is free. Businesses may elect to spend money to participate in rebate programs during the certification process.

Learn more about the Green Business Program. Learn more about the Green Business Program.

2. How long am I certified for under the Green Business Program?: Green Business certification lasts for three years. Businesses can easily be re-certified at the end of the three year period by demonstrating that they have maintained their green standard and have implemented new green practices.

Learn more about the Green Business program.

3. Do you have assistance for low income families or senior citizens to pay the utility bill?: No, the city does not offer assistance. However, you can find helpful resources for paying your utility bills by viewing the Utilities Assistance List (PDF).

4. I’m having problems paying my utilities bill, can I set up a payment plan?: You can call Utilities at 831-768-3455 and speak to a customer service representative to set up a payment plan.

Visit the Public Works page for more information.

5. Do you accept credit card payments over the telephone?

Yes, you can call 831-768-3455 to make a payment Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please have your credit card information ready before calling.

You can also call 1-855-748-3077, and pay 24/7 with the automated phone payment system.

For more information regarding your utilities,

visit the Utilities page.

6. Why is my current water bill so much higher than my last?: A malfunctioning or leaking toilet is the most common problem, and it may be responsible for the sudden increase in your water bill. If you hear the sound of water running when your toilet is not in use, it can be wasting 100-500 gallons of water per day.

To learn how to detect or repair toilet leaks or find other useful water conservation information,
visit the Water Conservation page.

7. What do I need to do to change the name on my utility account?

In order to change the name on the utility accounts you will need to provide proof that you live there (rental agreement, mortgage documents, power of attorney).

Learn more about your utilities by

visiting the Utilities page.

8. How often does the City bill for utilities?

The City bills on a monthly basis for all utilities: water, garbage and sewer.

Learn more about your utility bill by

visiting the Utilities page.

9. How can I save money on my bill?: To save money on your bill:
- Use water-efficient fixtures (shower heads, faucet aerators available at the Nature Center) and make sure your house is leak-free.
- Find out if you qualify for a free Toilet Rebate/replacement. Call the Customer Service 768-3133.
- Reduce your garbage bill by increasing your recycling. More than 80% of materials discarded from homes are recyclable. The more you recycle, the smaller the garbage cart you will need, and the less you will pay.
- Check the label on the lid of your blue recycling cart and make sure you are recycling everything we accept.

Visit the
Water Conservation page for more tips.

10. Why do we pay sewer fees?: Sewer fees pay for the complete operation and maintenance of the collection, treatment and pretreatment programs. The sewer fund is self-supporting and does not receive money from outside sources such as the General Fund.

For a breakdown of your bill, visit the Utilities page.

11. Why is my current water bill so much higher than my last?: A malfunctioning or leaking toilet is the most common problem, and it may be responsible for the sudden increase in your water bill. If you hear the sound of water running when your toilet is not in use, it can be wasting 100-500 gallons of water per day.

To learn how to detect or repair toilet leaks or find other useful water conservation information,
visit the Water Conservation page.

12. What has the City already implemented as part of the Urban Greening Plan?: The City has supported the establishment of community gardens, the development of over 7 miles of nature trails, identified street tree planting locations and developed a plant palate for use by City, residents, developers and businesses.

For more information, visit the Urban Greening Plan page.

13. How can I start a community garden in my community?: Please contact Public Works Customer Service, and ask for the City's Community Garden Manager.
Community Garden Program Guide (PDF).

14. What are the health risks when coming in contact with the water at Pinto Lake?

Not many studies have been done. Currently a PhD student in Epidemiology at the University of California Davis is conducting a research study to evaluate health risks to humans and their pets associated with recreational exposure to Pinto Lake.

For more information about this study, contact the One Health Institute at UC Davis at (530) 752-7526.