Why do I have to pay a higher rate for my outdoor water use?

Indoor water use is essential for public health and safety, while outdoor water use is necessary for growing aesthetically pleasing plants and landscaping. Additionally, it is more expensive to supply the water needed for outdoor uses due to peaking factors; in other words, we need additional water supply and distribution system capacity to meet the needs of outdoor watering, particularly in the summer months. Therefore, the cost of providing outdoor water is recovered through a higher rate. Outdoor water use can be reduced by increased irrigation efficiency and replacement of water-thirsty grass with more water-efficient plants.

Show All Answers

1. How much water is in a billing unit?
2. What is the "readiness-to-serve" charge?
3. What is a "pass through" charge?
4. What are budget-based tiered rates?
5. Why does Monte Vista Water District use budget-based tiered rates?
6. What is a water budget?
7. What are water budgets based on?
8. Why do I have to pay a higher rate for my outdoor water use?
9. What if I need more water than my budget gives me?
10. How can I reduce my water use to stay within my budget?
11. What are "demand reduction rates?"
12. Why does Monte Vista Water District periodically raise rates?