Water Utilities FAQs

What is sewer?

Wastewater (sewer), is the used water that goes down the drains inside our houses and businesses. The wastewater portion of your bill pays the costs associated with cleaning wastewater and returning it to the Trinity River.

How is the residential sewer (wastewater) bill calculated?

Your monthly sewer charge is based on an average of your water use billed during the previous winter months (December, January, February and March) or your current month's use, whichever is less.

Is Dallas drinking water safe?

You bet it is. Dallas water meets or is better than all standards set by the state and federal governments. The State of Texas has designated Dallas a "Superior Public Water System," the highest rating given by the state. Dallas has received recognition from the Environmental Protection Agency for its quality water supply. To make sure the water is safe, DWU tests the water 40,000 to 50,000 times every month, including tests for many more chemicals than government standards require. If you are concerned about your water quality, you may request more information or a free water quality test. Call the DWU Purification Division at (214) 670-0900 during weekdays or (214) 670-5111 during evenings or weekends.

Drinking Water Quality reports

What causes occasional taste and odor changes in Dallas water?

All water has its own unique taste and odor characteristics. Dallas, like many other water suppliers, occasionally experiences taste and odor changes. In the summer and early fall, algae in area lakes occasionally give water an earthy taste and odor. Temperature change and excessive rain also can alter taste. These changes do not affect the safety of the water.